’Learning doesn’t end with a degree’ – Heli Bergström fully embraced the AI transformation

When AI began breaking boundaries in the workplace, Bergström made a decisive choice: instead of watching from the sidelines, she jumped fully into the change.

Today, she promotes the use of AI in leadership and the development of teaching as a Principal Lecturer in Digital Business at the South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk).

’AI should be adopted responsibly in ways that genuinely improve the flow of expert work, decision-making, and collaboration without increasing workload or confusion.’

What fascinates her about AI is its controlled unpredictability and rapid evolution, which constantly challenges people to keep learning. The same theme has defined Bergström’s long career: she completed her master’s, licentiate, and doctoral degrees as an adult alongside her work.
 

An inspiring learning process

Bergström completed her doctoral research exceptionally quickly, in just one and a half years.

’The research question related to expert work was already very clear in my mind, as I had worked on the topic for a long time. The research didn’t feel like a burden, but an inspiring learning process. Of course, it required discipline and prioritization, but it was genuinely inspiring.’

The research process reinforced her understanding of how important clear practices, good supervision, and a sense of community are in a researcher’s work.

’When doctoral education is developed, the impact is seen not only in researchers’ daily lives, but also in the quality of research, the renewal of working life, and Finland’s overall knowledge base.’

Education is close to Bergström’s heart. She hopes that doctoral studies will become more accessible in the future, regardless of a person’s background or financial resources. She herself has financed her studies since upper secondary school without a safety net to rely on.

’I find it important that the doctoral degree continues to develop to become even more diverse and flexible, without compromising its high quality.’

A doctoral degree is an asset in the job market

Bergström encourages those already in working life to pursue doctoral studies.

’If you notice a recurring phenomenon at work that affects people’s daily lives or a company’s results, that already offers a good research question. Doctoral studies are also a way to make an impact. Research provides the tools to articulate, measure, understand, and develop things based on knowledge. For me, the doctoral degree has opened doors to teaching and development roles.’

As an experienced expert in leadership development, coaching, and research, Bergström remains inspired by how work can be made smoother and more meaningful.

’It’s rewarding to see change in practice: when roles become clearer, collaboration improves, and workload decreases, productivity grows and well-being at work improves. I want to help leaders succeed in a rapidly changing world where human strengths and the possibilities of artificial intelligence complement each other.’

Bergström’s learning journey did not end with her doctoral degree. She has continued to expand her expertise through international education, an MBA, and investment service qualifications with Aalto EE. She encourages today’s students to follow a similar path.

’A degree is not the endpoint but just the beginning. The world changes quickly, and you can’t stand still. Set goals, follow your interests, and challenge yourself bravely. Curiosity and continuous learning will take you far.’

Text: Marjukka Puolakka