Toomas Tammer graduated from the Mechanical Engineering programme at TTK University of Applied Sciences in 2012. Today he is an entrepreneur and a recognised expert in his field, yet his connection with his alma mater has remained strong. Looking back, he sees his time at TTK as an important part of the journey that has brought him to where he is today.

A conscious choice with a practical focus

Toomas enrolled at TTK in 2008 after graduating from the Tallinn Industrial Education Centre. He had already decided early on that he wanted to continue his studies in higher education, and the university’s strong practical orientation ultimately determined his choice.

“It was clear to me from the start that after finishing vocational school I wanted to continue studying at a higher education institution,” he explains. “A practically oriented education was very important to me, which made choosing a university easy. There was really only one option that matched what I was looking for – TTK.” Since Toomas had studied mechatronics at the Industrial Education Centre, continuing in mechanical engineering felt like a natural next step.

The beginning of his studies, however, was not entirely straightforward. “I expected that we would start focusing on the technical side of mechanical engineering right away, but the first year also included quite a few general subjects. As a first-year student, it was difficult for me to see how they connected to my chosen field,” he admits.

Over time, the picture became clearer and motivation grew. “From the second year onward, when more specialised subjects were added to the curriculum, studying became much easier.”

A close-knit class and an active study period

When looking back, Toomas does not single out one particular moment. Instead, he remembers the entire study period fondly. “It was a great time overall,” he says. Much of that experience was shaped by the strong spirit within the group.

“We had a very friendly and supportive class. We spent a lot of time together and, in fact, we still keep in touch today.” Their shared interest in the field also created many opportunities. “As a group, we visited companies as part of our studies and attended several industry fairs, including some outside Estonia.”

Toomas sums up the group’s mindset with a simple phrase: “We were curious and proactive – after all, a sleeping cat catches no mice.”

Some subjects that initially seemed less important during his studies later proved extremely valuable. “At the time, it was hard to see the point of technical drawing and descriptive geometry. Since various computer programs were already available, drawing by hand felt like a waste of time,” he says.

“The real value became clear later, when I realised that the knowledge gained in those subjects helps me understand equipment and technical systems much better.”

Among his lecturers, Toomas particularly remembers Tavo Kangru, Ruubo Roots and Toomas Pihl. “Pihl had exceptionally deep knowledge of the subject and taught it with great expertise,” he recalls.

What TTK gave him

As an alumnus, Toomas values the broader perspective his studies provided. “I particularly appreciate the practical experience the university offered,” he says. “It also gave me a strong professional network and exposure to a wide range of technologies.”

For him, education is part of a longer journey. “Whatever you do in life becomes part of your path. Studying at TTK is not the final step – it’s one important part of that journey.”

Looking back on his years of study, he has no doubts about his decision. “I feel that I made the right choice.”

The attitudes he developed at TTK continue to guide him today. “For me, these include independent thinking, a strong technical approach, and the ability to learn on your own,” he says. He also highlights the importance of teamwork. “Because our group was so close-knit, it naturally encouraged us to work together and develop strong teamwork skills.”

Entrepreneurship and career after graduation

Toomas began his entrepreneurial journey while still studying. In 2010 he founded the company Venten, which has since grown into a business with nearly 50 employees and has become the largest provider of CNC metal-cutting tools, machine tools and industrial equipment in the Baltic region.

His studies at TTK played a role in that decision. “My studies definitely gave me the push to start a company, because what I learned helped me understand the real needs of the industry,” he explains. “Starting a business while studying wasn’t easy, but it was manageable. When you’re young, you have the energy to handle several things at once.”

Staying connected with his alma mater

Toomas remains closely connected to his alma mater and regularly collaborates with the university. “Various initiatives bring me back to the university several times a year,” he says. “For example, over the years my company has supported the development of the university’s metrology laboratory by helping equip it with modern devices. I have also participated in discussions where I’ve been able to contribute my expertise to topics such as future curricula and student recruitment.”

Venten also supports the university’s Formula Student team and works closely with TTK in the field of continuing education. “My connection with the university has remained strong, and our cooperation has always been very productive,” he says.

What he misses most from his student days is the time spent with classmates.

“Back then we had much more time for each other,” he says. “Today, with family, work and other responsibilities, that time is naturally more limited. But we still stay in touch as much as possible. That’s why alumni networking evenings and reunions organised by the university are so valuable – they help maintain connections both within the class and with the alma mater.”

The role of alumni and advice for students

According to Toomas, one of the most valuable ways alumni can support current students is by returning to the university as guest lecturers.“If every alumnus managed to give even one guest lecture during the academic year, that alone would already be a great contribution,” he says.

In his view, such cooperation benefits everyone.“Guest lectures help students broaden their horizons, while alumni gain a better understanding of the young professionals who will soon be entering the workforce.”

He also has clear advice for current students:“Don’t hesitate to ask more questions about how and where the knowledge you gain at university will help you in your field. It’s important that during your studies you develop a strong connection with your chosen discipline.”

He also emphasises the importance of building relationships within the group.“Make sure you spend time together as a class – both during your studies and outside of them. One of the biggest rewards is that you may gain friends for life.”