Engineering Excellence: Matias Pusa’s Path to Innovating Wood Technology

28.02.2025
Laura Saali

Matias Pusa has always had a passion for technology, which led him to pursue a career in engineering.

After high school and completing military service, Pusa studied at the University of Applied Sciences. Later, his journey culminated in earning a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from LUT (Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology). His specialization in Mechatronics, which combines machine and production technology, set the foundation for his future in the industry. 

 

From Chief Designer to Product Manager at Raute 

Pusa’s career in the wood industry began when he saw an opportunity at Raute for a Chief Designer. Attracted by the size of the company and the potential for career advancement, he joined Raute and took responsibility for the R3-Series veneer peeling lines.  “The opportunity intrigued me, as I wanted to advance my career,” said Pusa. 

After a couple of years, Pusa transitioned into the role of Product Manager for the R3-Series veneer peeling lines. He also spent a year as a technology manager in Intralogistics solutions but decided to return to the role with a more complex technology role. During that year, he stayed involved in customer projects as they requested his technology management expertise. Despite moving between roles, his connection to lathes remained strong. Pusa remarked that it seemed he could not distance himself from lathes—and, in truth, he had no desire to do so. 

At Raute, Pusa has appreciated the company's commitment to promoting development, which reflects its support for professional growth by encouraging learning and continuous improvement. “It is great that employees’ interests are heard and considered for career development. This has been key in my professional growth, ensuring that my work remains meaningful,” said Pusa. 

 

Advancing wood technology with purpose 

A typical day for Pusa includes meetings about products and projects. He enjoys being involved in the technical aspects and customer-facing interactions. He wants to deeply understand client needs and incorporate that knowledge into product development. Problem-solving is a key part of his daily tasks, and he thrives on learning and figuring out how to add more value for Raute’s customers. During the work weeks, he tries to keep up his design and drawing skills to maintain his technical proficiency.  

Looking to the future, Pusa is particularly passionate about improving customers' raw material utilization. “By optimizing how our customers use the raw material during the peeling process, we can reduce waste and create more sustainable solutions,” he says. 

He is focused on developing machines, such as the R3-Series veneer peeling lines, which offer a cost-effective solution needed to boost production capacity with the best possible raw material recovery. He is also working diligently to expand his expertise in hybrid lathe systems. Alongside his professional role, he dedicates his free time to the voluntary fire brigade, where he strengthens his teamwork and crisis management skills. 

 

Learn more about Veneer Peeling:

The importance of peeling to the smallest possible core

Learn more about our Veneer Peeling Lines & Machines

 

Matias Pusa

Product Manager, Spindleless Peeling
Tel. +358 45 639 2817
[email protected]

 

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