Finnish Defence Forces x Hive Helsinki: Training ICT Conscripts
8.6.2026
The Finnish Defence Forces reached out to us with an ask: could Hive’s learning model be adapted to train specialized ICT conscripts? Fast forward 12 months, and the code from the first training is already in production use. The applications are open for the next batch.
How it started
The Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) had identified a clear need. Technology has become an increasing part of warfare, and building technological capability needs to happen fast and continuously.
FDF had heard about how Hive works: rapid skill-building without teachers or lectures, through hands-on projects, collaboration, and accountability. “Hive’s teacherless, hands-on, and collaborative training model was a match made in heaven for the ICT conscript training. As an independent foundation, Hive was also to move fast into the collaboration”, says ICT specialist Benjam Bröijer from FDF’s C5 Agency’s C5I School.
How it came together
FDF set out to create an ICT conscript training program that builds technological capability both in peacetime and in crisis. They were also focused on building technological performance that can quickly solve troops’ problems in the field.
Hive’s task was to build a specialized learning phase, which would be a key part of the training program.
We developed a learning model and materials where conscripts work on broad projects both independently and in groups, without teachers or lectures. The challenges of the projects get increasingly complex. Each project has clear goals and the conscripts evaluate each other’s finished solutions based on given criteria.
The Hive team then trained the C5I School staff and selected conscripts to facilitate the learning themselves. There was also a visit to the field to see the program running in practice.
What were the results
The first cohort exceeded expectations.
Conscripts came in with different backgrounds. Some already had software engineering experience, some were self-taught, and some were fresh out of vocational school. They were organised into scrum teams, given ownership of the projects, and sent to the field to understand their users firsthand. Now, their code is already running in production at the Finnish Defence Forces.
One conscript put it simply: “I learned more in six weeks than in a year at school.”
What happens next
We built Hive to train software developers for the Finnish tech and startup ecosystem. Our collaboration with the FDF is one of the first where we take our method outside our usual operating ground to serve the Finnish society more broadly.
Hive and C5I School are continuing the collaboration. A new ICT conscript cohort starts soon.
Applications are open at mil.fi/ict-varusmiehet.