Jamie Gibbons: Returning to Studies in Automotive Electrics

Jamie Gibbons has always been interested in the automotive industry. Growing up in the UK, he followed how the field was developing and began to think about where the industry was heading in the long term.

“I looked at the future and saw more and more electric cars. So I wanted to study something that focuses on where the industry is going, not where it has been.”

That thinking eventually led him to Finland and to Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, where he began studying Automotive Electrics.

From working life back to university

Jamie moved to Finland in 2021 after meeting a Finnish partner. Before starting his studies, he worked in London for a server maintenance and security company, supporting critical systems for high-profile clients.

“I went straight into working life. This is actually my first time studying at university,” he says. “I’m 28, so I’m a bit older than many students.”

Returning to studying after years at work felt unfamiliar at first.

“It was strange going back to classes and doing homework again. I hadn’t done homework in about ten years.”

However, the adjustment period was short. After the first semester, studying became part of his routine.

“You find your rhythm, and it starts to feel normal again.”

Choosing Metropolia and Automotive Electrics

When exploring study options, Jamie compared several universities and spoke with people who had experience of Metropolia. The practical approach and modern facilities stood out.

“They talked about the high-tech labs and the hands-on learning.”

For Jamie, motivation was key. Starting university later made it especially important to choose a field he genuinely enjoyed.

“I wanted to spend four years studying something I actually care about, not just any degree.”

Automotive Electrics offered exactly that: a combination of cars, electricity, energy systems and future technologies.

Learning through theory and practice

Jamie describes the studies as a clear balance between classroom learning and practical work. Courses often begin with theory and move into laboratory work, where the concepts are applied in practice.

“You learn the basics in class, and then you go into the lab to work with batteries, cars and charging systems.”

One of the most memorable experiences was a first-year project where students built electric go-karts in teams and later tested them on a track in Espoo.

“We built the whole thing ourselves and then raced them against the other groups.”

Jamie was responsible for much of the welding work.

“It took ages, and by the end I was exhausted. But when you finally drive it, it feels worth it.”

He also enjoyed courses in CAD and 3D modelling, especially because the skills could be used immediately outside school.

“I learned things in class that I could take home and use the same day.”

Developing skills and confidence

Returning to maths and physics after years away from studying was challenging, but also rewarding.

“I hadn’t done advanced maths before, so it was a big learning curve.”

Over time, those subjects began to make sense, and Jamie gained confidence in both theory and practice. He learned to use workshop machinery such as lathes, milling machines and laser cutters, gaining skills that felt directly relevant to working life.

“You get access to equipment you wouldn’t normally have a chance to use.”

His understanding of engineering also changed. While he initially expected engineering to be mostly hands-on, he learned how much problem-solving happens before anything is built.

“When you understand the calculations behind things like forces and stress, you don’t always need to build something to know if it will work.”

Looking ahead

Jamie’s goal is to return to the automotive industry and build a career in the rapidly evolving field of electric mobility. He is planning to complete his work placement at BMW, where he has previous experience and professional connections.

“I’m not just studying to get a certificate,” he says. “I’m here to meet people, build networks and get into working life.”

For Jamie, Metropolia offers a combination that suits his situation: practical learning, supportive teachers, modern facilities and strong links to industry.

“The connections you build here are really important,” he says.

More information

Automotive Electrics Bachelor's degree programme