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Expert Voices: Marko Korhonen – A Career at the Heart of Rail Fleet Maintenance
Marko Korhonen works at Saalasti Rails as a rail fleet specialist, responsible for the maintenance inspections, technical reliability, and coordination of servicing for our customers’ rolling stock. His work is a critical part of Saalasti Rails’ operational reliability – and a clear example of how expertise, hands-on experience, and a development-oriented mindset come together in practical, everyday solutions.
Expert Voices is a content series by Saalasti Rails that highlights the people behind the machines – professionals whose work ensures safety, performance, and continuity for our customers.
A Career That Grew With the Fleet
One of Saalasti Group’s longest-serving employees, rail fleet specialist and inspector Marko Korhonen, is currently celebrating 30 years in Saalasti Group. His career story is also the story of Saalasti Rails’ development – from a machinery mechanic to a trusted expert in rail vehicles and locomotives. Marko began his career in 1995 as a technician working with biomass and process machinery. His personal interest in rail systems soon led him into the world of locomotive and rolling stock maintenance.
Marko began his career as a technician working with biomass and process machinery. His personal interest in rail systems quickly led him into the world of locomotive and rolling stock maintenance.
“I was involved in welding and designing the first Vapiti couplers, and I also once guided the current CEO of the Group, Tomi Saalasti, during his very first summer job,” Marko recalls with a smile.
Twice he tried working elsewhere – but always returned to Saalasti. The reason? The diversity of the work, close customer collaboration, and a strong sense of community.
Safety and Prevention at the Core
Marko’s daily work includes inspections, maintenance coordination, and customer visits. At the heart of it all is safety.
“More than half of my work is about ensuring safety. Every inspection is done with the mindset that the fleet remains roadworthy and safe,” he explains.
Preventive maintenance isn’t just a concept – it’s a practical way to save customers time and money. Marko recalls a case where a bearing fault was detected early:
“By replacing all ten wagon bearings in time, we helped the customer avoid a production shutdown worth millions.”
Expertise Through Continuous Learning
The industry has evolved with electrification, digitalization, and increasing documentation requirements. Inspection work requires courage to ask questions, attention to detail, and readiness to travel. It also offers opportunities to grow professionally and share knowledge with younger colleagues.
“This field changes constantly – it demands curiosity and a willingness to learn every day,” Marko says.
Supporting the Customer’s Everyday Operations
Saalast Rails’ values – safety, reliability, and teamwork – are clearly reflected in Marko’s work. Customer relationships are close and long-term; many have become friends over the years. Through maintenance agreements and ECM responsibilities, Marko plays a direct role in ensuring fleet availability.
“We need to understand the customer’s urgency and help them get their fleet back in operation – safely and reliably.”
The Person Behind the Expertise
Outside of work, Marko enjoys time with his family, grandchildren, and relaxing at the cottage. Balancing work and leisure brings energy to his everyday life.
“No two days are the same in this job. That’s what makes it interesting – but it also requires time to recharge with family and hobbies.”
A Message to Customers
Marko’s message is clear:
“Preventive maintenance is a smart investment – and above all, it creates safety that can’t always be measured in money.”