Returning to a peaceful life is made easier for Oleksandr Panchenko by his family, his native enterprise, and his job.
In March 2022, Oleksandr Panchenko, head of the automation control department of Zaporizhstal, volunteered for service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. During that period, the plant was preparing for a forced shutdown of production.
"When the full-scale war began, I was well aware that my skills would be valuable. Given my expertise in radiation and chemical weapons, I served in radiation and chemical reconnaissance during my younger years. When the occupiers initiated attacks on Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), and later when the russians employed chemical weapons in Mariupol, I felt compelled to act," says Oleksandr PANCHENKO.
During that period, the plant was getting ready for a hot mothballing. After preparing the equipment for shutdown and archiving the software, Oleksandr joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on 7 March 2022. He underwent training and was deployed to the Sumy region. This was followed by the liberation of the Kharkiv region and the Ukrainian Donbas. Later he became the commander of an infantry squad.
While performing combat missions in Avdiivka, Oleksandr was seriously wounded. After that, Oleksandr was unable to return to military duty. As a result, he has now resumed working at his home plant, Zaporizhstal. Here, Metinvest and Zaporizhstal support his recovery from combat injuries through their veteran support programme.
“In December 2023, I was released from service due to a severe injury; my right arm no longer functions properly. Zaporizhstal provided me with financial aid for rehabilitation. I've been working for the company for more than 30 years, so it’s natural that I returned to the plant with great pleasure. My entire life has revolved around this place," Oleksandr recalls.
The man is currently adjusting to civilian life. He mentions that his colleagues are also very supportive in this process.
"Having colleagues, friends and relatives nearby who understand, support, listen, and help you navigate through various emotions is incredibly important. Those who have experienced service in the “zero” zone understand that returning to civilian life without work is impossible. According to Oleksandr, work not only organizes thoughts but also fosters social connections, allowing you to understand and perceive others more effectively," says Oleksandr.
It is important to note that Zaporizhstal has implemented several programmes to support the adaptation of veterans. In particular, training for employees who work with veterans, a legal hotline, psychological assistance, and additional training. The plant recently organized a training session focused on emotional well-being, with participation from military veterans. Oleksandr Panchenko participated in it as well.
"Drawing from my personal experience, I understand the challenges our people encounter during the war and the impact of constant stress. The emotional well-being training is especially valuable for us now because it addresses two crucial aspects. It provides support for demobilised individuals like myself, while also helping our colleagues who struggle to communicate with those returning from the front. They often fear inadvertently causing emotional distress with their words. It's really important to facilitate communication and support veterans as they adapt to civilian life," Oleksandr emphasises.
