Three flame‑cutting torch operators will travel to the federal stage of the "Best in Profession" competition fr om the Russian Far East. Covering thousands of kilometers, these strong‑spirited specialists will defend the honor of their home regions: Khabarovsk Territory, Zabaykalsky Territory, and Amur Region.
"There is a picturesque settlement called Vanino in the Far East. For me, it's a place of power – that's wh ere I was born. My parents were my role models for hard work and responsibility. My father operated heavy machinery of all sizes, providing for our family. And my hardworking mother was always by his side," shares Dmitry Sanfirov, a flame‑cutting torch operator at Khabarovsk Vtormet LLC, with warm memories. "At some point in life, everyone thinks about choosing a profession. For me, after completing my military service, the question came: 'Where should I go to work?' The decision to become a flame‑cutting torch operator was a conscious one. This profession gave me the opportunity to realize my abilities and find my place in life."
His victory at the regional stage of the competition in Khabarovsk proved that we are looking at a first‑class master ready to compete at the national level – and also a grateful student. "A huge thank you to my supervisor, Vladimir Sushkov, for giving me the chance to prove myself," Dmitry said at the time.
"It's not the profession that chooses the person, but the person who chooses the profession," echoes his colleague Yury Bykov, a flame‑cutting torch operator at Amursky Vtormet LLC. "That's exactly how it happened for me. I decided to try myself in a new field, gain practical skills, and I enjoyed it. It takes more than strength and courage – you need a good eye and an understanding of how metal behaves when heated. If you cut in the wrong place, you can't glue it back."
Sergey Kolobov will represent Zabaykalsky Territory at the federal stage.
"I work at Chitinsky Vtormet. My mentor taught me many of the secrets of the trade and a responsible attitude to the job," he says. "We supply the country's metallurgists with strategic resources, ensuring technological security. I am proud that a piece of the Transbaikal soul and my own labor lies at the foundation of our great nation's industrial might."
Each of the participants believes in their own strength and hopes to win. Let's support our colleagues and make sure they remember our warm, hospitable Siberian welcome. May the competition venue become a place not only of uncompromising rivalry but also of lasting professional friendship.