Futuristi Elina Hiltunen

Elina Hiltunen is a futurist, triple doctor (Doctor of Military Sciences, National Defence University, 2026; Doctor of Science in Economics and Business Administration, Aalto University, 2010; and Honorary Doctor of Economics and Business Administration, LUT University, 2026) and a Master of Science in Engineering. Yet, she is a captivating keynote speaker whose presentations pack a punch of hard facts, imagination, and a healthy dose of humor. With over 25 years of experience in foresight and speaking, Elina has a broad interest in world affairs, from weak signals to megatrends. Hiltunen completed her PhD at Aalto University School of Business in 2010 focusing on foresight and weak signals, and her PhD at the National Defence University in 2025 on the use of science fiction in defence foresight. She also has a background in natural sciences, holding an MSc in Chemical Engineering (1996). Hiltunen has extensive experience in both corporate and academic worlds: she previously worked as a futurist at Nokia. She has also worked at Finpro and the Finland Futures Research Centre. Currently, she is a part-time futurist at the University of Helsinki's ACCC flagship project, which explores climate change and the challenges it brings. Since 2007, Hiltunen has been an entrepreneur, helping numerous organizations with foresight and strategic planning. Ever since her engineering studies, Hiltunen has self-identified as a tech and science geek. One of her books focuses specifically on the future of technology. Hiltunen has also written a sci-fi novel and sci-fi columns, and she is a regular guest on YLE's morning TV science show Jälkikaronkka. She also covers various technological innovations in her columns and as a freelance science journalist. Hiltunen is an active writer who has penned columns for Tekniikan Maailma, Mikrobitti, Talouselämä, Taloussanomat, and Yhteishyvä. She has written 15 books either individually or as part of a team. Seven of her books focus on the future from different perspectives (including foresight methods, weak signals, scenarios, megatrends, technology trends, consumer trends, and Finland's future challenges). Her other books cover topics such as coding (for kids), crochet, and depression. In 2020, Forbes listed Hiltunen as one of the top 50 female futurists in the world. Hiltunen is also active in charity work. She is a patron of Tyttöjen Talo (Girls' House) and organizes charity painting events for influential women.