When did you start your career at Latvijas Finieris and how?

I started my career here on 27 September 2021 as a biomass raw material preparation operator. I had just graduated from university. I received a professional bachelor’s degree in engineering in materials science and wood processing from LLU (now LBTU). I was offered a job at a company that built wooden frame houses, where I did my internship. I rose quite high there in a relatively short time and felt that I was not fulfilling my potential, so I left and joined Ķīmisko produktu rūpnīca (chemical production mill) of Latvijas Finieris. The work was interesting and also a great challenge, as there were just two of us working on it; the manager and myself. I was responsible for the production of all Betulin Lab products.

What draws you to working for Latvian Finieris?

I like the fact that there is a strong team spirit and everything works like a well-oiled machine here. Of course, nothing is perfect anywhere, but I always know where to turn for help, and my colleagues are supportive. I really appreciate the fact that everyone helps each other. It may sound bad to say this, but it’s surprisingly good here! We are all working towards one goal – growth and development.

What has been the biggest challenge, project, or collaboration moment that you remember? Is there anything you are proud of?

I really feel that I proved my abilities and capabilities during my time at Betulin Lab. I was fortunate to be there from the very beginning and to have improved the processes to the best of my ability. I didn’t need any supervision; I did everything independently and took the lead. I was also actively involved in the Kaizen programme and, in recognition of my suggestions, received two cash awards. As a manager, I now encourage and motivate my employees to get involved in the Kaizen improvement culture.

You are now the manager of the new Kuldīga production facility!

Yes, I’ve been here since the end of February. It was an interesting start. When I was offered the position, I was told not to answer right away and to think it over for a while. I only needed a couple of days before saying – yes. I like challenges! There was a lull for about a month, even a month and a half, and then I jumped into the adventure. I was transferred to Furniers and trained at the Lignums mill. And there was a lot to learn – from all the technological processes to accounting. Now I know how to maintain peelers, I have worked on saws, and I am also trained as a peeler and loader. Theoretically, I can replace any employee. I just don’t have a tractor licence. However, the new team is staffed in such a way that half of the employees have this license. There are currently 12 employees here, including me.