Over the decades, they have devoted themselves to work in production, helping to develop enterprises, nurturing young specialists, and passing on their invaluable experience to future generations. Many decisions aimed at modernising manufacturing processes, implementing effective approaches, and preserving workplace traditions have been realised thanks to retirees of Metinvest.
As a token of gratitude for their long-standing dedication, last year the Company introduced a new corporate award called the "Metinvest Luminary." Ahead of the 20th anniversary of Metinvest Group, this distinction recognises outstanding retirees who have made an exceptional contribution to production, the industry, and their teams, according to the press service of Zaporizhstal.
This initiative currently brings together eleven enterprises of the Company in Zaporizhzhia, Kryvyi Rih, and Kamianske. Over two years of its existence, 79 retired employees have received the honorary title.
Mykhailo Tsurkan, Function Manager of the Directorate of Sustainable Development and People Management of Metinvest Group, greeted the Luminaries:
"You have behind you decades of work into which you poured your heart and soul. It was on this foundation that the company grew stronger and developed into what it is today – a pillar of support for Ukraine and for thousands of our employees’ families. We thank you for your reliability, dedication, and ability to support your teams during the most difficult times. You are those whom others look up to and of whom Metinvest is proud. On behalf of the Company's management, I express sincere gratitude to you and your families. I wish you good health, prosperity, and pride in the path you have travelled."
Among the recipients are department heads, mentors, and members of working dynasties, whose total work experience at the company’s assets amounts to 1,470 years.
"The title of 'Metinvest Luminary' recognises individuals whose professional experience continues to serve as a benchmark for younger employees. It is thanks to specialists like these that enterprises preserve their industrial expertise, mentoring culture, and responsible attitude towards the profession," noted Vartan Tarasko, Production Director at Zaporizhstal, during the ceremony.
This year, the "Metinvest Luminary" distinction was given to former Production Director at Zaporizhstal Andrii Kryvtsov, who dedicated 39 years of his life to the metallurgical industry. Mr Kryvtsov progressed through all key stages of his production and managerial career – from team leader and foreman to Head of the Production Directorate, where he worked until his retirement.
"I truly have something to be proud of. Once, when I was a shop manager, I hired a young metal heater. Today, my former trainee is already running the hot rolling mill. For a manager and mentor, that is probably the greatest achievement of all," said Andrii Kryvtsov, a Metinvest Luminary.
Among the recipients is Olha Skrypnyk, who dedicated 36 years of her life to Zaporizhvohnetryv. She began her career at the enterprise in 1987 as a crane operator and later mastered the profession of storekeeper. In 1996, she became head of the finished goods warehouse of the magnesia products shop. Under her leadership, the department repeatedly became one of the best-performing units at the enterprise.
"I am very grateful to the enterprise for such a high honour. Those were the best working years of my life, spent at this enterprise. Today’s event is a great recognition of my work and of the experience that I passed on to my employees," shared Olga Skrypnyk.
The honorary title was also awarded to Zaporizhcoke retiree Viktor Volokh. He devoted 31 years to the enterprise, working as a head of the tar distillation shop. Mr Volokh developed and implemented automated solutions in occupational safety, environmental protection, and production, helping to improve quality and workplace safety, reduce harmful emissions, and automate pitch preparation processes.
It is especially symbolic that the Volokh family passed on their love of the profession and respect for work to the next generation. Together with his wife, Viktor worked at Zaporizhcoke for many years, while their children continued the family work tradition.
"This award is very important to me. Every year, I meet with my engineering and technical colleagues. Many years have passed, but we still communicate and stay in touch. This award does not belong to me alone – it is also an award for the team with whom I worked for so many years," said Viktor Volokh, a Metinvest Luminary.
As a reminder, Metinvest marks the 20th anniversary of its establishment this year. In Zaporizhzhia, Metinvest Group is represented by Zaporizhstal, Zaporizhcoke, Zaporizhvognetryv, and Metinvest Machinery.