Heading for World Skills Competition.
In the world of metallurgy, Arkady Prudnikov stands out as a trailblazer, transforming the perception of metallurgists from mere technicians to creative innovators. As a seasoned metallurgist at the Pavlodar Aluminum Plant, Prudnikov has spent over four decades championing a more innovative and analytical approach to the field.
Prudnikov's influence is rooted in his emphasis on creative problem-solving. He encourages metallurgists to delve deep into material science, thinking beyond routine technical tasks to explore innovative solutions. By doing so, he bridges the gap between theoretical science and practical metallurgy, demonstrating that metallurgists can and should apply scientific principles creatively.
One of Prudnikov's favourite sayings is, "If you want good staff, train them yourself." This belief led him to start mentoring, with the aim of preparing a reserve of skilled metallurgists. Over the years, he has become known as the most experienced mentor at the plant, inspiring a generation of metallurgists to adopt a more inventive and analytical approach to their work.
Prudnikov's impact extends beyond the plant. He has evaluated the skill level at the WorldSkills competition in the Higher College of Colored Metals, singling out promising young talents like a young man who presented interesting facts about a bird tied to Pavlodar Pрииртышье.
His passion for passing on his 43 years of experience to the youth is evident. He often laughs when discussing his mentoring approach, but his message is clear: "Either you teach, or you do double the work for the same pay." This sentiment underscores Prudnikov's belief that a good metallurgist should have a creative streak and that teaching others is a crucial part of the job.
Arkady Prudnikov's influence reaches far and wide, reshaping both the profession’s self-image and external perceptions. He has shown that metallurgy is not just about technical routine but is a creative and intellectually engaging field, broadening its scope to innovative material science and engineering. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of metallurgists, encouraging them to think creatively and innovatively in their work.
Arkady Prudnikov's belief in continuous learning and development extends beyond metallurgy, advocating for the integration of technology in education-and-self-development. He often encourages his mentees to stay updated with the latest advancements in material science and technology, emphasizing their importance in creative problem-solving.
Prudnikov's approach to mentorship and teaching is a testament to his commitment to fostering a culture of lifelong learning and technological innovation in the field of metallurgy and beyond.