At Semey Engineering JSC, many specialists are connected by family ties. Dozens of families — fathers and sons, husbands and wives, brothers and sisters — work in different production areas, departments, and professions. Among the brightest examples of generational continuity is the Nuriakhmetov family, a three-generation dynasty of fitters working in armored vehicle repair workshops. Skills and experience passed down through generations are an honored tradition of succession, and family members take pride in upholding the reputation of their name.
The founder of the dynasty, Rashid Galiakhmetovich Nuriakhmetov, a native of Semey, devoted over three decades to the tank repair plant. He joined the enterprise as a young man after graduating from a polytechnic school with a degree in mechanical engineering.
He began his career as a welder, connecting engines to gearboxes. Over several years, Rashid Galiakhmetovich mastered a number of related trades, becoming a versatile master assembler of armored vehicles.
As an experienced fifth-grade fitter, Rashid Galiakhmetovich enjoyed great respect among his colleagues. His motto in mentoring young workers was: “Do as I do, do it with me, do it better than me.” When teaching his apprentices, he instilled focus, precision, thoroughness, and punctuality. Over 33 years, the founder of the labor dynasty made an invaluable contribution to the growth and development of the Armored Vehicle Repair Plant (BTRZ).
One of the members of his team was his son, Ildar Rashidovich Nuriakhmetov. Having decided in his youth to continue his father’s work, Ildar joined the enterprise in the early 1990s and made a significant contribution during a challenging period for the plant.
Today, Ildar Rashidovich is a highly qualified production master and fitter in the main production unit, engaged in the repair and assembly of infantry fighting vehicles, tanks, armored personnel carriers, and self-propelled artillery — any equipment coming off the factory’s line.
For his professional achievements, he has been awarded the “Honorary Mechanical Engineer of Kazakhstan” badge, as well as medals commemorating 10 and 20 years of Kazakhstan Engineering, along with certificates of honor and letters of appreciation from the city administration and Semey Engineering’s management.
Rashid Galiakhmetovich’s younger son, Rifkhat Rashidovich Nuriakhmetov, also worked at the plant for many years as a fitter. During his time there, he established himself as a highly skilled professional, continuously improving his expertise and craftsmanship.
The dynasty’s legacy now continues with the third generation — Rail Nuriakhmetov. After graduating from an auto-mechanical college, the young specialist tried several professions in different fields. However, the family’s connection to machinery drew him back to the plant. As a boy, seeing real tanks and artillery pieces left a lasting impression on him. Today, Rail holds the rank of second-grade fitter and takes great pride in his profession.
“When you see the condition of the equipment when it first arrives, and then compare it to how it looks after the repair — you can’t help but feel proud and connected to the common cause. You think: Did I really make this happen?” — shares Rail.
Labor dynasties often form naturally — younger generations follow the example of their elders, taking pride in their work and the products they create. For these workers, it’s not only about personal achievement but also about the success of the entire enterprise. The proud traditions of the Armored Vehicle Repair Plant continue, as does the story of Semey Engineering, moving forward toward new milestones and accomplishments.