When the war made his hometown of Pokrovsk extremely dangerous, Roman Fedorov was forced to evacuate. While the sudden displacement was a challenge, it did not stop him from pursuing his dream of becoming a metallurgist. Today, Roman is a student at Metinvest Polytechnic and speaks with conviction: “a dream is an inner compass.” It is this compass that guides him through challenges and towards his professional development.

After completing his university placement at Metinvest Group enterprises, Roman received a job offer from Kamet Steel. He now successfully combines his studies with work, holding the position of control desk operator at the hot-rolling mill. The student plans to build a successful career in metallurgy with Metinvest.

Roman’s story is one of self-belief, professional determination and a clear understanding of the value of higher technical education. For him, Metinvest Polytechnic has become not only a university, but also a source of support. The flexibility of the academic process, the support of lecturers and hands-on training at Group enterprises have helped him to stay on course even when life has disrupted his usual bearings.

– Roman, you evacuated from Pokrovsk due to the war, yet life’s challenges did not stop you from pursuing your dream of becoming a metallurgist. What motivates you?

– A dream is an inner compass. Even when everything around you is changing, it keeps you on course. For me, metallurgy is not just a field of study: it is a path that I have chosen for myself. And even the war cannot erase this confidence in myself and my future.

– What was the decisive factor for you when choosing Metinvest Polytechnic for your education?

– It was the practical approach that convinced me: the university is not detached from real life. You are not just “sitting through classes” here: you are genuinely preparing for your profession. I also appreciated the modern mindset: the learning process is flexible and convenient, and you remain in constant contact with lecturers, even if you change cities or face various circumstances.

– The educational process at Metinvest Polytechnic is tailored to the student. Do flexible scheduling and online lectures really work?

– It’s not just that they work: they are a lifeline. Especially nowadays, when life is so unpredictable. You can plan your own day and combine studies with work or other commitments. But it does require self-discipline. If you avoid putting things off, you can manage everything successfully.

– You are already an experienced student, with exams and placements behind you. What has truly engaged you in your studies?

– The laboratory and training sessions at Metinvest enterprises, because they give us a real opportunity to see production from the inside and feel the pulse of metallurgical processes. It is not just lectures or theory, although those are important too. Practical experience at enterprises such as Kamet Steel or Zaporizhstal is something entirely different: it draws you in. You see not just figures and theory, but people, processes, fire and movement… You realise that this is not simply an industry, but a living system in which you can play an important role.

– What about challenges? Were there moments when you felt like giving up?

– There were. And that’s perfectly normal. Especially when something goes wrong against the backdrop of personal circumstances. But I am not someone who gives up at the first difficulty. If I have committed to something, I see it through to the end. Because I know exactly what I am working towards.

– What would you say to a school student who is unsure about their next step?

– Don’t choose something simply because it is “trendy”: trends change, whereas engineering is a true classic profession, which means stability. Our lives depend on metallurgy every single day, in virtually every process. Choose something that truly resonates with you. Technical fields are about real, practical skills that are always in demand. And if you want to be part of Ukraine’s reconstruction and work with a long-term perspective, give this path a try. Metinvest Polytechnic is a strong starting point for those who are ready to grow in their profession.

– And finally, where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

– As a professional, respected by my colleagues. As someone who can take responsibility for complex processes. Perhaps even as a mentor to those who are just starting out. And most importantly, as a Ukrainian who has consciously remained in the profession to help to develop our industry, even in the most challenging times.