The unique First Job programme helps young professionals gain a trade, build experience, and earn a competitive income.
Danylo Novichkov
Danylo NOVICHKOV, 20, works at Zaporizhstal as a control post operator in the hot rolling mill’s coiling section. He says he deliberately chose a career in metallurgy and pursued training as a rolling operator after finishing school.
“I already had a good idea of how the plant’s production processes work because my father also worked in the hot rolling mill, although in a different section, and often shared stories about his job. On top of that, I completed an internship at Zaporizhstal during my studies. All of this, combined with the attractive working conditions at the plant – including the social benefits package and competitive salary – played a big role in my decision to choose Zaporizhstal as my first workplace,” Danylo explains.
The young worker was hired under the motivational First Job programme, launched by Metinvest in May 2024. Under the programme, in addition to their salary and bonuses, young professionals receive an additional cash incentive of UAH 50,000 during their first year of employment.
Danylo initially worked as an operator in the metal processing section, where he consistently showed dedication and hard work. His efforts were noticed, and he was offered a promotion to the coiling machines control post at the continuous thin-sheet mill 1680.
“Danylo immediately made a great impression. He showed genuine interest in the finer details of the profession, delved deeply into the production technology, and gained a thorough understanding of the equipment,” said Danylo’s mentor, Artem Kalinevych, senior master of the mill and heating furnaces. “I saw his potential and invited him to join my section, and he has never let me down. Interestingly, his father, Serhii, was once my mentor and shared his expertise with me. Today, Serhii is defending Ukraine on the front lines. I’m certain both have much to be proud of: Serhii can be proud of his son, who is continuing his legacy, and Danylo can be proud of his father, who is protecting us from the enemy.”
Danylo has already set new goals for himself and, in addition to working at the plant, seeks to pursue higher education. He intends to use the bonus he earned during his first year at Zaporizhstal to fund his studies.
“Of course, I want to develop and keep learning, so I’ll invest the money in my future. Next year, I plan to enrol in university to study human resource management,” Danylo shared.
Starting a career can be challenging for young people, as finding a job in their field with decent pay is often difficult due to a lack of experience. To help students transition into their future professions while still in university or vocational school, the plant organises orientation visits, involves them in corporate projects, and offers practical training opportunities. Graduates are readily employed, with additional support provided to strengthen their practical skills on-site. Each new hire is paired with an experienced mentor to ensure a smooth transition.
“This programme allows young professionals to adapt gradually, settle into their first job, learn the trade, and receive a bonus of UAH 50,000. In the first four months of the programme, over 80 graduates received their payments from the allocated fund of UAH 4 million. We warmly invite young people to join our team,” said Oleh SHPYKOVSKYI, head of HR at Zaporizhstal.
