Locations"I'm Helping Peers Progress along My Path More Quickly and Easily": Why 20-Year-Olds Pursue a Teaching Career
November 5, 2024
Artem Novikov, a vocational instructor at the College of Modern Technologies in Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Services, a branch of the Republican Institute for Vocational Education, is an expert and trainer in mechatronics and a winner of the national professional skills competition.
At 23, Artem Novikov has already been working as a vocational instructor for four years. He teaches practical classes in Mechatronics at the College of Modern Technologies in Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Service, the very institution he graduated from just a couple years ago. Now he is guiding his students through everything they need to know about assembling automated production lines - from using hand tools to programming controllers.
Artem admits that his choice of profession was somewhat accidental. When he first applied, he had little idea what mechatronics was or how it could be used. At the time, the field was new so even an online search offered little information. Still, the profession seemed interesting and promising. "Looks like I made the right call," Artem says with a smile, reflecting on his decision.
- Ever since I was a kid, I have been into radio technology and radio mechanics, - Artem shares. - I liked figuring out how electronic devices worked. I still remember the thrill of connecting wires correctly and setting things in motion. Mechatronics is exactly the combination of mechanics and electronics. It requires the ability to understand blueprints, whether electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic. At the same time, one needs to assemble and program automated lines, diagnose and fix any issues. The profession brings together all the things I have enjoyed since childhood.
Such genuine interest could not go unnoticed. In his fourth year, Artem was invited to participate in a national professional skills competition, where he and his teammate took first place. The students were then to represent the country at an international competition in Shanghai but the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the setback offered a new opportunity to Artem. He was offered the role of an international expert and started training his own team of competitors for future events.
"Skills competitions introduce you to the professional community where you keep developing your expertise."
- For me, winning the competition was a proof that all the time and efforts I put into studies were not in vain, - says Artem. - Becoming an expert helped me build a reputation among other professionals. People listen to my opinion, ask for advice, and seek help. Similarly, I can always turn to my colleagues if I need guidance. Skills competitions are great for building a network. You become part of a community where you continue to grow and develop your expertise.
The experience Artem gained as a trainer motivated him to stay in teaching rather than move straight into the industry. On his journey from a student to teacher and a national skills competition to international expert, he accumulated a wealth of knowledge that he wanted to share with others.
"In my own experience, I know how important it is to have a compassionate and competent teacher who can guide you through everything you need to learn."
- I know what it's like to work hard and strive to understand all the complex processes, - says Artem. - Mechatronics is still a relatively new field. There are not so many educational resources available. In my own experience, I know how important it is to have a compassionate and competent instructor that can guide you through everything you need to learn. Both through my studies and additional training I gained knowledge I felt compelled to share. I would like to help students progress along my path but more quickly and easily.
Apart from work, the young professional focuses on his personal development. He regularly upgrades his skills through workshops, seminars, and is pursuing a degree via distance learning. Artem admits that over these eight years, he has not once regretted his career choice.
- Mechatronics specialists are in demand at almost any enterprise that uses automated assembly lines, adds Artem. - This job will become even more relevant as technological progress moves forward. But I believe that one needs to have a passion for it. I often say that everyone is born for something specific. They just need to find it and keep growing. Then things fall into place. I think I have already found my calling.
Access to quality education and skills development plays a crucial role in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. The vocational education system helps accelerate young people's entry into the labor market and continuously improve their qualifications through on-the-job training.
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