The rapid evolution of technology demands that ICT graduates become lifelong learners who continuously update their skills. This paper reflects on how theFIRMA, a student-driven ICT project office at Turku University of Applied Sciences (TUAS) empowers students to develop a lifelong learning mindset through real-world project experiences. The concept and structure of theFIRMA are described, highlighting its operation as a project-based learning environment that functions like a small company within the university (Määttä et al., 2018; Säisä et al., 2018). Students participate in authentic ICT projects for actual clients, with roles ranging from novice developer to student CEO, and with experienced peers mentoring junior students (Säisä et al., 2020; Tiura & Säisä, 2018). These real-life projects provide continuous opportunities for skills development across technical and interpersonal domains, foster adaptability through diverse project challenges, and cultivate self-directed learning habits. Evidence from previous alumni surveys and feedback indicates that theFIRMA experience has a strong long-term impact on graduates’ skills, confidence, and career development (Säisä et al., 2019, 2020). The results show that the top skills gained (e.g., teamwork, communication, problem-solving) closely match those valued by industry and have significantly aided alumni in employment (Määttä et al., 2018; Säisä et al., 2019). Through a reflective analysis of these outcomes, the paper demonstrates how theFIRMA’s model of authentic, student-driven projects effectively nurtures continuous learning competencies and mindsets, thereby empowering students to become lifelong learners.
