Natalia Chub has worked in the coke and chemical industry for 25 years. After all that experience, she is a student once again. At the age of 48, she decided to open a new chapter in her life and return to metallurgy. But this time, it is different, as she is focusing on management and technology. Studying at Danieli Academy in Italy was a real discovery for her: systematic processes, a high level of automation, and a distinctive approach to R&D. Today, the Metinvest Polytechnic student shares her internship experience, talks about challenges and new opportunities, and explains why it is never too late to study.
Natalia, you have been working in the coke and chemical industry for more than 25 years. Why did you decide to become a student again?
“My first speciality is metallurgical engineering, focused on steel production. However, after the graduation, I dedicated most of my professional life to the coke and chemical industry. I gained a great deal of experience, but modern trends point to a different future: "green" metallurgy can function without coke products. My speciality was gradually losing relevance, so I decided it was time to return to metallurgy – but this time, to the modern version, with an emphasis on technology and management. Metinvest Polytechnic gave me this opportunity.”
You recently took part in a study programme from Metinvest Polytechnic at Danieli Academy in Italy. What impressed you most?
“First of all, the systematic approach. At Danieli’s plants, we observed a comprehensive approach to all processes: managing technology, quality, logistics, production, and personnel. I was impressed by the high level of automation and the extensive use of electronic systems. But what struck me most was the approach to R&D. The company has a large department where lecturers and specialists have real production experience. They track new technological trends, provide training, and organise workshops. This is crucial for a company that strives to remain a leader in its field.”
What conclusions did you draw from this trip?
“I realised that it would be useful to hold more short and targeted training sessions directly at production sites. This would help specialists develop more quickly and apply new knowledge immediately in practice.”
What do you value most about studying at Metinvest Polytechnic?
“Above all, the feeling of being a student again. Sometimes I even forget that I am already 48 and, supposedly, should be thinking about retirement. At the same time, the programme is organised in such a way that I can study full-time without stepping away from my job. Much of the knowledge I acquire I can immediately apply in my professional activity. And the trip to Danieli Academy was a real gift it was a unique opportunity to see different approaches and experience a new level of production organisation.”
And what is your attitude towards the role of women in metallurgy?
“We have our work to do. It does not matter how old you are or what gender you are – women in metallurgy and mining can be successful, and there are plenty of examples at Metinvest Group enterprises After all, what is the difference between cooking a good borscht and producing quality steel, or between managing production and raising a child? In all these cases, mastery, patience, and love for the work are essential.”
Metinvest Polytechnic Technical University creates conditions in which both experienced specialists and young people can continually develop, gain up-to-date knowledge, and open new horizons in metallurgy and mining. For Natalia, this became a real opportunity to combine many years of practical experience with modern approaches to technology and management, proving that it is never too late to study and that opportunities for growth and change are always within reach.
