Proven Degree of Skill
Seven workers participated in the professional skills contest among employees of Metafrax Chemicals: fitters for the repair and maintenance of I&A (instrumentation and automation) from the workshop for maintenance and repair of automated control systems (TSORASU).There were four workers of the enterprise and three students of the Ural Chemical Technology College (UCTC).
The opening ceremony began with welcoming remarks by Andrei Yeremeyev, Technical Director of JSC Metafrax Chemicals, who emphasized the importance of such initiatives for the personal development of employees. He was joined by Boris Gershonok, Head of the Automation and Metrology Department, Dmitry Berdnikov, Head of the workshop for maintenance and repair of automated control systems (TSORASU), and Alexander Grom, chairman of the trade union organization. They wished the participants good luck, worthy passing of tests and a fair fight.
The contest program was divided into two stages. The theoretical part included 100 questions that combined modules on occupational safety, industrial safety and specialized disciplines with the integration of the principles of lean manufacturing. The participants were given 20 minutes for each block, which required not only deep knowledge, but also the ability to work in limited time conditions.
The practical stage for I&A fitters became a real test: in 150 minutes it was required to assemble a pneumatic circuit and connect the drive control system, implementing manual operation via a push-button sration and automatic actuation at a set pressure.Here it was necessary to demonstrate not only technical literacy, but also effective time management.
The college students performed a separate task: to solder a metal detector building set in 70 minutes, observing technological standards and demonstrating their skills in working with electronics.
The work of the participants was evaluated according to the following criteria: installation accuracy, execution speed, compliance with safety standards and technological regulations. The contest organizers provided the participants with professional equipment, expert support and a transparent judging system, which allowed them to simulate the conditions of real production.
Based on the test results, Leonid Maksimov took the first place, Nikolai Valeyev took the second, and Daniil Dyomin took the third. Ilya Yuzhakov became the best among UCTC students, Yelena Guseva, the only girl in the contest, won silver, and Vladimir Berdutin won bronze.
Dmitry Zhelvakov, TSORASU area supervisor and the contest head, noted:
“The theoretical part revealed a high level of training, but in practice, not everyone had enough time to fully realize their potential. After receiving feedback, I can say that the results demonstrated the relevance of the tasks, compliance with industry requirements, and the effectiveness of a combined approach to competency assessment.”
The award ceremony was attended by the company's management and the trade union. The winners received diplomas and prizes, and all the contestants received corporate gifts. Alexander Grom presented special incentives to the trade union members.
Alexander Torsunov, Deputy Head of the Automation and Metrology Department concluded:
“It's nice to see both experienced staff and college students. I hope that all the participants will not stop there and will take part in the next contests. Everything is in your hands. There is something to strive for!”
The winner Leonid Maksimov commented on his result:
“I’m glad to pass tests, a lot has happened, but still there is something to strive for. I didn't expect to win. I’m very happy with this result! Thanks to the organizers for holding such contests.”