Before joining the mill, Igors spent almost two decades working in a garage, repairing, painting and maintaining cars.

“That job taught me precision and patience. During the interview, I was told – we will teach you! Not everywhere is like this, and it’s what convinced me.”

After joining the Iekārtu rūpnīca, Igors had to learn a wide range of new skills – preparing metal, sawing and marking parts, constructing and adapting components, and working with various machines.

“There is not one, single duty. You have to be able to do a bit of everything – cut, measure and weld. It makes the work interesting and keeps you from getting in a rut.”

Igors’ working day starts with a task evaluation. But plans often change. Sometimes a machine suddenly stops and you have to react immediately.

“At times like these, colleagues are very important. Here, people help each other, and it gives a sense of security.”

He values the mutual respect and willingness to collaborate that define the mill’s work environment.
Over the years, Igors has also become a mentor to younger colleagues. He emphasises that it’s important to both show how a task should be done and also explain why it needs to be done in such a way. While training young colleagues, Igors experienced a particularly meaningful moment in his life – his son also began working at the mill.

“I wanted him to try this job. To see how things are made and how people work together. Everything was new at the beginning, but he was trying hard, and I was very happy.”

For Igors, working alongside his son is a unique experience, giving him the chance to share the expertise he has developed over the years.

“It’s very rewarding to have him around and learning.”

When speaking about his work at Latvijas Finieris, Igors highlights the stability, the safe environment, and the supportive management. He appreciates the well-structured equipment setup, the clear expectations, and the supportive attitude of his colleagues.

“If it wasn’t good, I wouldn’t have worked here for so long. Here, I feel appreciated. It gives peace of mind and motivation.”

The greatest satisfaction for Igors is the feeling that his work is important.

“When you see a machine running perfectly and know you’ve had a hand in making that happen – it’s a real pleasure.”

If a young person today is thinking about a technical profession, Igors says it clearly:

“If you want a real job, then this is the place to be. Here, we will teach you, help you and support you. All you need is a willingness to learn.”

Igor’s story is about the genuine joy of work, the ability to grow, and the chance to pass on his experience – now to his son, who is taking his first steps in the mill environment.

“It means a lot to me. I can not only work but also see the next generation starting their journey. It’s a beautiful cycle.”