A refractory worker with 24 years of experience, Valerii Karmaz, works at Zaporizhzhia Refractories.
A resident of Zaporizhzhia, Valerii has been working as a refractory worker for almost a quarter of a century. He says he chose this profession consciously and has never once regretted his decision.
"I joined the company in 2002. Back then, I knew nothing, but the desire to work and earn a living changes everything ‒ that was exactly my case. Yes, the job is not easy, but there are no easy jobs in industry. It was a conscious choice, and I have never regretted it for a minute," says Valerii KARMAZ, refractory worker at the service centre of Zaporizhzhia Refractories.
Valerii works at the section that repairs ladles and troughs of the open-hearth shop at Zaporizhstal. He says his job is diverse and interesting. For example, together with a colleague, he carries out ladle lining laying special refractory bricks that protect the vessel from high temperatures. He also dismantles worn refractories using a special lining-breaking machine to prepare ladles for relining.
"Our job involves dismantling the worn lining of steel-pouring ladles using a powerful machine. Then the ladle is relined with new refractory materials in the section, after which it goes back under the furnace to ensure the production of the highest quality metal," explained Valerii.
He also performs the duties of a crew leader. Together with his crew, they repair and reline about five ladles per day.
"There is probably nothing difficult for me anymore, because with such experience, you get used to everything. I really like our friendly team where everyone helps each other whenever possible," he added.
Colleagues respect Valerii for his experience and professional skills and always listen to his opinion.
"When I first came here as a young worker, Valerii was already part of the team. He was the one I learned from. Now he is my right hand. I never hesitate to ask for his advice ‒ he is truly an experienced professional," said Ruslan DIDENKO, a lining repair foreman at the Zaporizhzhia Refractories service centre.
When new employees join the section, it is Valerii Karmaz who becomes their mentor.
"At first, I show them what and how to do, where to start. Then I just correct their work if something does not go right. Everyone comes to ask questions ‒ and I never refuse. Like in any crew, we explain and show how to do the job easier, simpler and safer," shared Valerii.
Zaporizhzhia Refractories is part of the Metinvest Group, one of Zaporizhzhia's key employers. The company currently has open vacancies for press operators, refractory workers, maintenance fitters, furnace loader and charge loader.
Employees are provided with decent working conditions, competitive salaries, social benefits, the possibility of job reservation and training funded by the company at Metinvest Polytechnic.
"Anyone who wants to work is welcome. We will teach, show and guide you. We will help you develop a love for the job. The salary is decent and competitive, and there are full social guarantees," said Valerii Karmaz.
