Our series on women in male-dominated professions comes to an end with the story of Liubov, whose determination, perseverance, and a desire for growth can help overcome barriers and stereotypes in traditionally male fields.
From Laboratory Technician to Senior Master
Liubov’s professional journey began at the Institute of Food Technologies and later at the Odesa State Academy of Food Technologies, where she earned her degree. She started her career in a laboratory as a technician. Her passion for product quality and eagerness to learn enabled her to climb the career ladder step by step. When she was promoted to shift master, the company’s director tried to discourage her from taking the role. However, she stood firm in her decision and proved herself as a capable and dedicated professional.
Her journey to success, however, was far from easy. Male colleagues, upper management, and even the system itself were not always ready to accept a woman as a leader in technical processes. Liubov had to demonstrate her expertise, tackle the toughest challenges,develop new skills, and work alongside men as an equal.
When the Reshetylivska branch was established in the region, Liubov recognized a genuine opportunity to test her skills and pursue her ambitions.She recalls: «When the first high-capacity automated grain elevator was built in our region, I knew I wanted to challenge myself and put my abilities to the test.»
Liubov joined NIBULON in 2007 directly as a shift master. After four years, in 2011, she was offered the position of senior master, which she which she gladly accepted.She remained in this role until 2023, steadily deepening her knowledge of technology and equipment operations. During this time, she developed extensive expertise that enabled her to confidently step in for colleagues when needed: «The job required constant adaptation since I often had to cover for colleagues. It wasn’t an easy task, but this experience taught me how to react quickly to various situations and solve problems efficiently in urgent conditions.»
Is It Difficult for a Woman to Lead a Team of Men?
«You can learn anything if you have the desire,» says Liubov. She admits that, at first, it wasn’t easy – some doubted whether a woman could handle the job, while others were simply surprised by her decision to work in a «non-traditional» profession. However, with the support of her team and her own perseverance, she achieved success.
«The most important thing is to find an individual approach to each employee and explain why quality work is essential. When the team sees you not just as a supervisor but as someone who understands the processes, works alongside them, and respects their efforts, gender differences fade into the background,» she explains.
«My colleagues are highly skilled professionals, and I continuously learn from them, expand my knowledge, and improve my skills» Liubov adds.
A Message to Women Pursuing Careers in Male-Dominated Fields
Liubov firmly believes that if a woman wants to work in a field traditionally seen as male, she must believe in herself. “Don’t be afraid to try, don’t stop at the first obstacles. Take action, keep learning, set goals—and you will succeed!” she says.
Liubov’s story is not just a personal success but also proof of how NIBULON creates equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of gender. Here, professionalism, initiative, and the desire to grow are truly valued. NIBULON not only promotes gender equality but also provides opportunities for learning and career advancement. Thanks to this, Liubov was able to gain additional education and develop new skills that make her work even more effective. Her story is proof that when determination, perseverance, and passion come together, stereotypes disappear.
Read also the stories about Olena Dorontsova, power engineer at the Khortytsia branch, and Olha Nuzhnenko, Olena Ivanets, grain processing machine operators at the Kremenchutska branch.
