In metallurgy, decisions are never left to chance. Experience, a cool head, and accountability for every decision are what matter here. These are the qualities colleagues associate with Andrii Popov, senior foreman of the Furnace Unit of the Open-Hearth Furnace Shop at Zaporizhstal, one of the people who ensure the plant’s stable operation every day.
On the occasion of Metinvest’s 20th anniversary, his professionalism, initiative, and dedication were recognised with the company’s highest corporate award, the Metinvest Gold Star. This year, the company's highest corporate award was presented to 18 Metinvest employees.
Andrii himself admits that he found his way into metallurgy almost by accident, yet it ultimately became his life’s work.
"Back then, my friends chose to study at a metallurgical college, and I became interested too. I discussed it with my parents, and they supported me. Looking back on my journey thus far, I realise it was all worth it. I love my profession and have never regretted dedicating my life to metallurgy," says Andrii.
Over 17 years, he worked his way up from a furnace helper to senior foreman. He says that experience, responsibility, and people who helped him develop professionally were key to that journey.
"Ten years ago, when a senior foreman vacancy opened up in our department, I hesitated for a long time. But in the end, I approached the management and offered my candidacy. I felt I was up to the job," he recalls.
Never wait for ready-made solutions
Today, Andrii not only manages the production processes in his department, but also continuously looks for ways to make them more efficient.
One of his most important projects was introducing repairs to the steel taphole without shutting down an open-hearth furnace. This solution made it possible to reduce repair times, cut annual natural gas consumption by 100,000 cubic metres, and generate economic benefits of more than $35,000.
Yet this is only one of many implemented initiatives. With Andrii’s contribution, the shop reduced its consumption of magnesia-based materials, introduced the use of metallurgical slag instead of purchased limestone, increased the share of recycled components, and developed a calculator for accurately calculating the charge mix for different steel grades. All these solutions help the plant operate more efficiently and make better use of its resources.
"There is always room for improvement in production. If you see a process that can be made more efficient, don't wait for a ready-made solution – you need to find one yourself. And then put it into practice," Andrii says.
He is equally committed to occupational safety, identifying potential hazards and implementing measures that help make the workplace safer.
The person people trust
Colleagues describe Andrii Popov as a professional who not only proposes changes but also sees them through.
"Andrii is the kind of person who is always looking for ways to make production better. When he sees a problem, he doesn't just suggest a solution, he sees it through. Many of the initiatives that now help the shop operate more efficiently were implemented with Andrii’s involvement. "At the same time, he has the ability to unite colleagues around a common goal," says Oleksandr PONOMARENKO, Head of the Open-Hearth Furnace Shop.
Andrii’s work is equally highly regarded by Artem VILIHURA, the young Deputy Head of the Shop:
"A true professional, passionate about his work. But Andrii is more than just someone who loves what he does. He is a true master of his craft. When Andrii is at work, when Andrii is at the furnace, it is a sign that production is under control and stable operation is guaranteed."
An award that motivates
The news that he had been awarded the Metinvest Gold Star came as a complete surprise to Andrii.
"I felt a joy that is difficult to put into words. It is a source of happiness and pride for me, and at the same time an inspiration for new achievements. I dedicate this award to our entire team and to my family, who have always supported me," he says.
For Andrii, professionalism is about more than just knowledge or experience.
"For me, being a professional means being committed to what you do, accountable to yourself and your colleagues, honest, respectful of others, and constantly striving to grow. These are the principles that help you keep moving forward."
