Alumnus of the Year 2026 Benjamin Harf: ‘There is tremendous strength in the networks you build during your studies’

Benjamin Harf studied electrical engineering at Arcada and graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering degree in 2005. Today, he serves as CEO and Quality Manager of Alco Besiktning, a company founded by his father in 2000. Alco Besiktning employs 23 people and carries out inspections of fire alarm systems, automatic fire suppression systems and electrical installations throughout Finland.

‘We are the only inspection body in the industry that offers inspection services in both Finnish and Swedish across Finland,’ says Harf.

Lessons from Arcada

Looking back on his studies, Harf feels that he gained both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

‘At Arcada, I developed an analytical way of thinking that has benefited me throughout my entire career. This analytical approach has given me the skills to interpret legislation and regulations and apply them in practice, ensuring that all requirements are met.’

Harf also built some of his most important professional networks during his time at Arcada. These proved invaluable when, as Vice Rector, he helped establish and develop Fortbildningscentrum Prakticum.

‘When I worked in vocational education, I hired several former classmates from Arcada. Even today, I exchange ideas and discuss challenges every week with friends I got to know during my studies. There is tremendous strength in the networks you build during your studies.’

An analytical mindset and student union involvement

When describing what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur, Harf highlights several key qualities.

‘You need the courage to take risks, make quick decisions and keep a cool head. And you need an analytical mindset.’

Alongside his studies, Harf was actively involved in student life and, among other things, participated in the student union. He strongly encourages today’s students to engage in extracurricular activities as well.

‘It gives you so much. I became a tutor because I was passionate about supporting other students, and I also served as a board member and chair of the student parliament in ASK.’

Harf’s relationship with Arcada has remained active since graduation. He was Chair of the Alumni Council when it was established and served on the ASK Council of Elders for several years.

‘I have acted as an ambassador for Arcada and represented the university of applied sciences at many different events. I have told many young people what a career after studying at Arcada can look like, and I have undoubtedly helped attract many students to Arcada through those efforts.’

Three tips for today’s students

Benjamin Harf has three advices for current Arcada students:

• Remember that working life is much broader than you may think while studying.
  For that reason, it is important to develop a broad range of skills, even if it is not always obvious during your studies how you might use them later.
• Be flexible. Be prepared for the possibility that you will need further education and continuously expand your knowledge throughout your career.
• Pay attention to detail. It is easy to think that technology and various tools remove the need for accuracy, but that is not the case. People must remain responsible for being thorough and precise in all situations. It is a fundamental and valuable skill.

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See the video with Benjamin here.

Reason for the award

Benjamin is someone who leaves a lasting impression through his commitment, positive attitude and strong desire to contribute. With a genuine Arcada spirit, he has for many years been a valued member of the Arcada community and a role model for both students and alumni.

Since graduating, Benjamin has generously shared his time, experience and professional network. As Chair of the Alumni Council, he helped establish Arcada’s alumni activities and has since remained actively involved as, among other things, a guest lecturer and mentor. Regardless of the role, his goal has always been to strengthen the sense of community between students, alumni, the student union and Arcada.

What particularly sets Benjamin apart is his positivity, which is truly contagious. Through his warmth and encouragement, he inspires those around him and brings out the best in others. At the same time, he is a proud and dedicated ambassador for Arcada, always speaking highly of his alma mater and carrying the Arcada’s values with him.

The alumnus of the year award is presented to an individual who serves as an inspiration to current students and demonstrates a broad commitment to the university. The recipient also acts as an ambassador for Arcada and actively contributes to the university’s activities.