Copper topper

Oleg Li joined Kazakhmys Corporation in 2001. Since then, he has advanced from being a mining equipment fitter in a Zhezkazgan factory to becoming the chief mechanic of the whole corporation. He lives and works in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.

Published: 16 April 2013

WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN DUTIES AS CHIEF MECHANIC?
“I ensure efficient usage and high-quality maintenance and repair of all the technological equipment at Kazakhmys Corporation.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF SANDVIK EQUIPMENT?
“I have worked with Sandvik equipment since my very first days at Kazakhmys. It’s being used in all our mining companies. We have at least 300 pieces of Sandvik equipment: underground trucks, loaders, drilling machines – basically all of Sandvik’s product line. In my opinion, Sandvik technology is the most reliable. And the Sandvik staff is very flexible and always respond to our problems.”

WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU ENCOUNTER IN YOUR WORK?
“The biggest challenge for us – and, I believe, for many companies around the world – is to find personnel with the right qualifications. Another challenge, which is also one of my key performance indicators, is to provide a safe work environment.”

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES AND INTERESTS?
“I love reading and exercising. I’m heavily involved in working with the Youth Kickboxing Association in Zhezkazgan.”