Ilona Logvinenko is an operator at the control station of Zaporizhstal's hot strip mill. She has 12 years of experience working for one of the most famous trading network in Ukraine.
– Since childhood, I have seen myself in trade, which is why I chose to work in the largest supermarket chain. However, more than a decade later, I realised that I was not ready to work in this field for the rest of my life. In an instant, I realised that I wanted to grow and have a try at a different area, – Ilona says. – I wanted to completely change my field of activity, and I chose Zaporizhstal as the place where I could do this.
Of course, it was not so easy to master the profession. But the opportunities offered by the plant to those willing to study impressed her. At the plant, Ilona underwent comprehensive training with the development of practical skills in the shop under the guidance of an experienced mentor who supported the future worker in every way. Today Ilona is already working independently. She says the work is very interesting, and the team and mentor are friendly and understanding.
– When I first came to Zaporizhstal, I was very impressed by the scale and importance of this work for the country, especially during the war. The full-scale invasion of Russia showed that not every enterprise can survive and support its staff. At my previous place of work, social guarantees were gradually reduced to nothing, working hours were reduced and, accordingly, wages were reduced too. That is, I could no longer receive the money that was promised, because they unilaterally reduced my working hours. Financial stability is an important component of well-being, so this situation was decisive in my decision to change the job, – Ilona says. – Working for such companies is not what they promise at the first interview. I often hear from others that working in retail means good money for a simple, easy job with transparent, stable conditions, but this is not the case at all. There is no easy money anywhere, especially where I worked. Working as a salesperson in a supermarket is very difficult both physically and mentally: you are on your feet all day, and if you are not talking to buyers, you are moving heavy packages and putting out goods. In addition, I was financially responsible. Every job has its own peculiarities, but here in retail there are too many.
Among dozens of job advertisements, the woman's eyes were drawn to the offer of a job at the plant.
“I came here with no experience in metallurgy and no specialised education, but with a desire to learn the profession. I received all the necessary knowledge and training at the plant, and at first I always had a mentor by my side in the shop. And today I work alone. The work requires attention and concentration, but it is very interesting. And although I have been working here for a short time, I see a number of advantages for myself compared to what I had at my previous job. The team is very friendly, the salary is stable and there are bonuses for extra effort, compliance with occupational health and safety standards, mentoring, and the opportunity to learn another speciality and grow professionally and increase my income. During martial law, these are especially important prospects – and after the victory, too,” says Ilona.
