THE HAGUE, 8 October 2024. The next note in our company composition is Simo Hokkanen, who joined RESONIKS in April 2024. Self-designated as "the crazy one" his presence truly makes the office feel alive. As the youngest of Team Tampere, and only Finn, he delights his coworkers with his ironically funny "Finnish Word of the Day". Continue reading to discover Simo's colourful zest for life!
What is the most exciting part of your job?
Since I was a child, I've always enjoyed working with my hands. Whether it was dreaming up castles or exploring fantasy worlds, I spent my free time creating things. More often than not, I was experimenting with new materials, tools, or mechanics—always curious and eager to try something different. Today, I’m fortunate enough to channel that passion into my work at RESONIKS, where I help design prototypes and find solutions tailored to the needs of our customers and partners. I’m still just as excited as ever to see what new tools or parts come my way, and how they can shape the work we do.
Why do you enjoy being part of the Resoniks Team?
Well, for starters, I love the fact that RESONIKS has such an open and accepting culture—where being myself isn’t just tolerated, it's encouraged! I get to put my creativity to good use. The best part is knowing that what I make actually helps people. My main goal has always been to make a difference, and here I get to do exactly that!
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Honestly, if it were up to me, I'd never leave my cozy, warm blankets! But then the sun comes in, rudely reminding me there's a whole world outside. Once I'm up, though, it's like a switch flips—suddenly I’m buzzing with ideas and inspiration that I just can’t keep bottled up. So, I leap out of bed, ready to create something new... after a bit of groaning, of course.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A quality inspector at a sausage factory—seriously! I was the pickiest eater, and sausages were about the only thing I’d eat without a fight. That dream didn’t last long (probably for the best), and I eventually decided I wanted to be a chef. I even studied for it! But then I realized the restaurant world is like the culinary version of a straitjacket—unless you own the place, it's hard to get creative. So, I figured I’d find other ways to play with my food... or, well, things that aren't food!
Book or podcast recommendation?
I’m the kind of person who won’t just recommend a book—I’ll probably recommend a whole library and give you a reading list that’ll take years to finish. I’ve spent ages escaping into fantasy worlds, and if you’re up for the most wild, unrealistic stories that somehow manage to sneak in bits of harsh reality—while making you laugh out loud in the process—grab anything by Walter Moers. Seriously, it’s like a rollercoaster for your brain.
Looking for something more “believable” (you know, with just a little magic)? Then Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time is your jam. It’s got everything: politics, epic battles, and enough drama to make you wonder why real-life leaders don’t just cast a spell to fix their problems. And if you've already burned through those, dive into The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss. It’s a beautiful mix of drama and heartbreak, perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of sorrow with their adventure. Just be prepared to get emotionally wrecked... in the best possible way, of course!
If you were in an orchestra, which instrument would you play?
Considering how I hop between projects like a hyperactive squirrel, you'd probably picture me with a trumpet or trombone, blasting out bold notes and stealing the spotlight like some kind of musical superhero. But honestly, with all that chaos, I’m all about balance. So, I’d probably surprise everyone and pick something soothing, like a harp or a flute—bringing a little peaceful Zen to the orchestra while the rest of life feels like a fast-forward button got stuck!
