Today, more and more young people are choosing stability, development, and a chance to realise themselves in the real sector of the economy.
Labour market trends show that young specialists are increasingly looking for jobs where they can quickly see the results of their work, receive guidance from a mentor, and have clear career prospects. These are precisely the opportunities that Zaporizhstal offers to young people.
Young employees receive paid training funded by the company, have a mentor to support their adaptation, participate in corporate motivation programmes, and actively contribute to changes in production. Here, everyone can demonstrate their skills and follow a clear professional development plan.
Eighteen-year-old Kateryna KHAPOVA is beginning her professional journey at Zaporizhstal. She is completing an internship at the plant's railway operations department. Kateryna hopes to become an assistant locomotive driver in the future.
"I chose this profession because I had an example in my grandmother, who worked on the railway. Of course, both my grandmother and my parents were surprised when I told them, since being an assistant locomotive driver is considered a male profession. But I made my decision, and now, during the practical training, I feel that I made the right choice. The work is interesting, the principles are clear ‒ I like it," said Kateryna.
Kateryna combines her internship at Zaporizhstal with studies at the Zaporizhzhia Vocational Railway Transport College. According to her, this helps to master the profession more effectively.
"In the morning, I go to the supervisor, we discuss the plans for the day, and I ask questions about anything I am curious about. Then, together with my mentor, the locomotive driver, we work side by side – he shows me the main operations, teaches me how to do everything correctly and the basics of locomotive operation, and explains the safety rules. We can also go on trips together – it is very exciting," said Kateryna.
For the first time in the modern history of the enterprise, a woman has chosen the profession of assistant locomotive driver. However, employees of the railway department are confident – gender does not matter; what matters is willingness and motivation.
"We value our young people; they represent the future of the enterprise. We help them integrate into the team, understand the work better, and support them at every stage. The first and foremost thing to explain is safety rules and the main aspects of the role. After that, a broader understanding of the processes comes, including the specifics of different cargoes and sections," explained Yuriy PYSARENKO, locomotive driver in the railway operations department at Zaporizhstal.
Although Zaporizhstal has a multi-generational workforce, older colleagues respect young employees – the atmosphere is one of mutual respect and partnership. For those who choose Zaporizhstal as their first workplace, there is the First Job Programme, which guarantees additional rewards for young people starting their careers at the plant – UAH 50,000 in the first year on top of their salary and bonuses.
