Visitors opt for vocational tours as their preferred educational trips
In an effort to challenge the stereotype that working in production is undignified among young people in Russia, the United Metallurgical Company (OMK) has launched an industrial tourism project called "Factory Seen." This project, managed by Yulia Vireeva, aims to educate tourists about engineering careers and modern high-tech production.
The tours offered by OMK are popular among schoolchildren and students, with the majority of tourists choosing these educational experiences. At the plant in Vyksa, one of the routes available is called "All about Science. Lunar Pipeline," which takes visitors through the central research laboratory. Young scientists introduce children aged 10 and above to the scientific activities of the plant and explain the work of an engineer-researcher and constructors.
The tours are designed to provide an opportunity for tourists to familiarize themselves with modern high-tech production processes. By showcasing the latest technologies and career opportunities in the metallurgy sector, OMK hopes to change the perception of working in production among young people.
Yulia Vireeva, the manager of the industrial tourism project "Factory Seen" at OMK, reported that these tours have been successful in attracting more local youth to the enterprise. She also stated that school teachers consider factory tours beneficial for student development, especially for high school students who are about to choose their future profession.
Industrial tourism has been known to positively influence young people's perception of careers in heavy industries. By providing a firsthand look at modern production technologies and the importance of sectors like metallurgy, these tours can help dispel outdated notions and inspire the next generation of engineers and researchers.
While specific data or studies related to OMK's impact on young people's perception of working in production are not currently available, the success of the "Factory Seen" project suggests that the company is making strides in changing perceptions and attracting talented young individuals to the field.
Enthused by the insights gained from the "Factory Seen" tours, many school teachers acknowledge the beneficial impact on students' education-and-self-development, particularly high school students deciding their future profession. As more local youth become engaged with OMK, their career-development prospects in the metallurgy sector are broadened, potentially reshaping the lifestyle choices of the next generation.
