NEWS
Such specialists are rarely talked about loudly, but no site works without them. Vladimir Yershov has been working as a turner in workshop No. 11 of UKTMK JSC for almost thirty years, and during this time accuracy has become his main professional rule.
His interest in turning appeared in his school years. The production practice at the Condenser Factory was the moment when he first got behind the machine and realized: This is his way.
– Back in school, I had an internship at a Condenser factory. There I realized that this was my life's work. "I've been working at the Mill as a turner for 30 years," says Vladimir Yershov.
After serving in the army, he worked as a driver for a while. But, as the master admits, his soul was still drawn to turning, and he returned to the profession.
He still remembers his first day at the Plant: on October 1, 1996, on his birthday, he took a shift. Since then, this date has been a double holiday for him.
– I remember this day forever. Two memorable dates coincided on the same day," he recalls.
Vladimir got his first knowledge from his mentor during an industrial internship at a Condenser plant. According to him, he still uses many tips. Over time, they added their own experience and professional skills.
Over the past three decades, the equipment has changed: the machines have become more modern and precise, more convenient to set up, new tools and carbide cutters have appeared. However, the essence of the profession has remained the same.
– The work is not much different from what it was before. The technology has changed, the tools have become better, but the main thing is who is working on them," says Vladimir Ershov.
According to him, the main thing in the turner's work is accuracy, patience and experience. To produce a high-quality part, you need to prepare carefully: set the parameters, perform all necessary operations before starting work. Experience helps you make decisions faster.
Sometimes you have to find non–standard solutions, especially when a part arrives after repair and deadlines are tight.
The main indicator of quality for the master is the absence of returns and comments.
– When there is no return for revision and complaints, it means that the work has been done efficiently, – our interlocutor is sure.
Over the years, there comes an inner feeling of the result – the understanding that the detail is done as needed.
In his youth, Vladimir admits, every chiseled detail was a delight. Today, this is already a high standard and responsibility.
"Conscience does not allow us to simply spoil the metal," our hero notes.
Outside of work, his life also remains active. In his youth, he was fond of hiking, cars, and loved working in the garage. Today, the main place is occupied by family, grandson and cottage.
Vladimir Yershov's professionalism has been awarded: in 2025, he was awarded the Order of "Enbek Danky" of the III degree, has diplomas and commendations. However, he considers the respect of colleagues and high-quality work to be the main reward.
Over the years, many students have passed through his hands. There are fewer of them now, but the master is still ready to share his knowledge with those who want to learn.
Thirty years at the machine is not just an experience. This is experience, responsibility and loyalty to the chosen cause. Such people are the basis of production and an example for young employees. While the Plant employs craftsmen for whom quality is not just a word, the profession has a future.