Excavator operator at Zaporizhstal’s Railway Transport Department, Liudmyla Romanko, isn’t afraid of change – she drives it.
She began her career at Zaporizhstal in 2017 as a shift supervisor in the hot rolling shop. Recently, she decided to take a completely new direction and learn to operate an excavator. To do so, she completed specialised training and quickly returned to her home plant.
“I’ve always been fascinated by large, heavy machinery and wanted to work with cranes and excavators. So, when the opportunity arose, I completed the training, got my license, and returned to Zaporizhstal – but this time as an excavator operator in the Railway Transport Department,” says Liudmyla ROMANKO.
Liudmyla first practised her new skills at a training site alongside experienced railway workers. But she quickly transitioned to full-fledged work, proving her ability to handle all tasks with excellence.
“Liudmyla immediately stood out as a skilled and responsible professional. In addition to her main duties of digging, transporting, and lifting various loads, she takes great care of her machine and keeps it in top condition. If a task requires more physical effort, of course, we lend a hand. But in every other way, she’s on par with her male colleagues,” says Maksym BAZHENIUK, foreman of Zaporizhstal’s Railway Track Maintenance and Repair Shop.
Liudmyla is in her third month in the new position, but she already feels it’s her calling. She describes her job as engaging and diverse.
“I handle various tasks, both in the railway shop and in nearby units. Thanks to my versatile equipment, I can easily transport heavy loads, dig trenches, and haul materials for repairs. My machine is highly manoeuvrable, convenient and truly universal. I love operating an excavator, so I work with enthusiasm,” said Liudmyla Romanko with a smile.
At Zaporizhstal, more and more female employees keep mastering new professions alongside their primary specialities. The desire to learn, grow professionally, and transform both themselves and the world around them is a defining trait of the plant’s female steel makers. Liudmyla believes that the key is to have confidence in yourself and your abilities.
“If you have a goal and the drive, success will follow. I’m grateful to my employers for providing opportunities to learn new skills and take on new roles without having to leave the enterprise. Today, it’s crucial to be in demand and to do work that benefits not only you but also your team and our country,” concluded Liudmyla.
