Excavator operator at Zaporizhstal’s Railway Transport Department, Liudmyla Romanko, isn’t afraid of change — she takes charge of it.
The specialist began her professional journey at Zaporizhstal back in 2017, working as a team leader in the hot rolling shop. Recently, she decided to completely change her career path and master excavator operation. To do this, she completed special training and immediately returned to her home plant.
“I’ve always liked big heavy machinery, and I was curious to try working with cranes and excavators. So, as soon as the opportunity arose, I took the training, got my license, and returned to Zaporizhstal — but this time as an excavator operator at the Railway Transport Department,” says Liudmyla ROMANKO.
Liudmyla began practicing her new skills at a training ground, alongside experienced railway colleagues. But soon, she was fully engaged in her new role, successfully handling all tasks with excellence.
“Liudmyla immediately proved herself to be a skilled and responsible professional. In addition to her main duties — digging, transporting, and lifting various loads — she takes great care of her machine and maintains it well. If a task requires more physical strength, of course, we help her. In everything else, she performs just as well as her male colleagues,” notes Maksym BAZHENIUK, head of the Railway Track Maintenance and Repair Shop at Zaporizhstal.
Liudmyla has only been working in her new position for three months, but she already feels it’s her true calling. She says the job is interesting and diverse.
“I perform a variety of tasks — both in the railway shop and in nearby departments. Thanks to my multifunctional machine, I can easily transport heavy loads, dig trenches, and remove materials for repairs. My machine is quite maneuverable and convenient — you could even say universal. I enjoy operating the excavator, so I work with a spark in my eye!” Liudmyla Romanko smiles.
At Zaporizhstal, more and more female employees are learning new professions in addition to their main specialties. The desire to learn, grow professionally, and change both themselves and the world around them are qualities typical of the women working at the plant. Liudmyla says the most important thing is to believe in yourself and your strength.
“If you have a goal and the will — the result will follow. I’m grateful to the company for the opportunity to learn something new and change my profession while remaining at the same enterprise. Today, it’s very important to be in demand, to do a job that not only benefits you but also your team and our country,” concludes Liudmyla.
Additional Information:
Liudmyla Romanko is a graduate of the second training group of the ALEF STROI School of Construction Equipment Operators.
The School was established on the basis of the company ALEF STROI — a leading player in the construction equipment rental market in Ukraine. The initiative was launched in response to the acute shortage of qualified personnel in the construction and technical sectors, which has worsened due to the war and mobilization. The project places special emphasis on encouraging women to enter technical professions that have traditionally been considered male-dominated, offering equal opportunities to anyone wishing to change careers, gain new skills, and find employment.
The School was initiated in partnership with Nemishaivskyi Vocational College, USAID, the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, and with the support of various companies and organizations. The training program includes both theoretical education and practical sessions on modern construction machinery. Upon completion of the course, graduates receive a state-recognized certificate and the opportunity for official employment.
The ALEF STROI School of Operators project is a prime example of effective collaboration between business, education, government, and international donors — all working together to help rebuild Ukraine’s economy by supporting veterans, displaced persons, women, and anyone eager to master an in-demand modern profession.