STTK was founded on 29 October 1946,when it began operations under the name the Confederation of Technical Employee Organisations in Finland STTK. It was founded by four unions: The Union of Finnish Industrial Technicians, Finnish Marine Engineers’ Association, Finnish Foremen’s Union and Svenska Teknikerförbundet i Finland.
Throughout its history, STTK has promoted the livelihood and good working conditions and day-to-day life of its member associations, as well as equality and non-discrimination. The tasks of the central organisation have varied over the years, but the activities have always had a broad impact on society.
The organisation’s 80-year history includes several major milestones, such as numerous national incomes policy agreements and pension reforms. The terms and conditions of working life have been promoted through negotiations, but also with bolder measures, such as industrial action and demonstrations. Throughout its history, STTK has advocated for bargaining. A functioning social contract is built on trust, dialogue and the labour market parties ability to find solutions together.
Aiming for an equal and fair working life
The goal of STTK’s new strategy, adopted in March 2026, is clear: a fair working life. This means safe working conditions, fair terms, equality and equal treatment of workers – regardless of sector, gender or status. In cooperation with its member associations, STTK influences legislation, social policy, education and the economy.
STTK is a strongly international organisation that cooperates with Nordic, European and global sister organisations.
Originally a male-dominated industrial central organisation, STTK has grown into a balanced central organisation representing both the public and private sectors, with a strong female majority. Today, 77% of its 400,000 members are women.
“In its future advocacy work, STTK places special emphasis on promoting equality and non-discrimination and improving the position of young people in working life”, stresses STTK’s President Else-Mai Kirvesniemi.
Today STTK has 12 member unions: Tehy, Trade Union Pro, Finnish Union Practical Nurses SuPer, Trade Union Jyty, Union of Private Sector Professionals Erto, Association of Construction Engineers and Architects RIA, the Meto – Metsäalan Asiantuntijat association, the Ammattiliitto Kelan toimihenkilöt association, the Kirkon alat association, Finnish Engineers’ Association, Professional Dairy Association MVL and the Finnish Ship’s Officers’ Union. The cooperation member is LUVA – Luonnonvarat ry.
STTK marks its anniversary with an invite-only event and will celebrate with its member organisations at various occasions during the autumn.
Additional information from STTK: Else-Mai Kirvesniemi, phone number 050 346 0847.