Artificial intelligence, digital simulators, 3D modelling, and the use of production data – not as abstract trends, but as tools already being applied in industry today. This formed the basis of the three-day boot camp “Digital Technologies in Industry”, organised by Metinvest Polytechnic for students, early-career professionals, and all those interested in contemporary industry.
The principal focus of the event was on practical experience and real-world case studies. Students currently studying at Metinvest Polytechnic were given a clear demonstration of how digital solutions operate within production processes, how they are implemented by Ukrainian and European companies, and which skills are now becoming essential for engineers and technical specialists.
The first day of the boot camp was devoted to the application of artificial intelligence in industry. Opening the event, Oleksandr POVAZHNYI, Rector of Metinvest Polytechnic, emphasised that the digitalisation of industry is already shaping new requirements for education and the training of specialists. At the same time, the boot camp itself served as an example of how the university is creating an environment in which graduates can rapidly transition from the classroom to real-world industrial tasks. A number of the practical case studies and expertise were presented by young specialists who are already working at Metinvest enterprises and are engaged in implementing digital solutions in industry. In effect, students were given the opportunity to learn from those who, not long ago, were in their position themselves, and who are now implementing AI and engineering technologies in industrial settings.
Master’s graduate Daniil TYMOSHENKO shared practical experience gained during a student internship at the Italian company Danieli – one of the global leaders in metallurgical technologies. He presented students with examples of the implementation of AI solutions in production processes, as well as approaches already being applied at European enterprises.
Particular attention was given to digital solutions for Ukrainian industry. A representative of Metinvest Digital, Viktor MALICHENKO, demonstrated how AI tools help optimise production processes, enhance operational efficiency, and support data-driven decision-making.
The second day focused on the development of industrial simulations and digital training systems. Oleksii MURASHKO, an expert from Zaporizhstal, presented an original project of an industrial simulator developed on the basis of Unreal Engine 5 for training personnel in a production environment. Participants were shown the full development cycle of the solution – from creating detailed 3D visualisations of production processes to configuring interactive scenarios and systems for identifying and recording potential operator errors. This format enables employees to practise actions and production scenarios within a safe digital environment, without posing risks to people or equipment. Particular attention during the presentation was given to how such simulations can be used for onboarding new employees, upskilling staff, and fostering a culture of safety in industrial operations.
The third day was devoted to digital solutions for the mining industry and the use of production data. Ihor KYRYCHENKO, a graduate of Metinvest Polytechnic and a mine surveyor, presented the K-Mine system – a specialised software solution used in mining for deposit modelling, mine planning, and the visualisation of production processes. Participants were shown how to work with geological and production data, create 3D models, and use digital tools for engineering decision-making in the mining industry. Following the boot camp, participants also had the opportunity to work with the software independently – thanks to the university’s collaboration with the developers of K-Mine, learners are provided with licensed keys for educational use.
At Metinvest Polytechnic, it is noted that such formats make it possible to align education as closely as possible with the real needs of industry. It is not merely about acquiring theoretical knowledge, but about working with the tools and technologies that have already become integral to modern industrial operations. The “Digital Technologies in Industry” boot camp became yet another example of how technical education in Ukraine is adapting to global changes in industry – from automation and artificial intelligence to digital modelling and the handling of large data sets.
