Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The annual meeting between students and representatives of JSC Power Machines was held at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University. Participants were briefed on the Student Design Bureau's (SDB) work and the requirements for the sixth intake of the program.
This year the project reached a new level: after winning the federal competition for subsidies in the Student Design Leadership track at SKB Power Machines – Polytech became part of the SKB "System Engineering" ecosystem. This structure unites student teams working on engineering problems with the primary goal of training motivated and qualified engineers. The ecosystem was presented to the students by the head of the Student Design Bureau "System Engineering." Alena AleshinaShe emphasized that the project includes several areas and cross-cutting trajectories for teams from different fields.
Compared to last year, the scope of work at SKB Power Machines – Polytech has significantly expanded. Three key areas have been established: SKB Power Engineering (gas and steam turbines, as well as hydraulic machines); SKB Electrical Engineering (a turbogenerator area has been expanded to include a hydrogenerator area, and a new area has been established for the development of electrical apparatus and electrical insulation); and SKB Mechanical Engineering Technologies (electrical and power machine production technologies for the Electrosila and LMZ plants).
This year, 21 students from the "Power Machines" program joined the program. They are studying programs in steam and gas turbines, electrical machines, and design and engineering support for mechanical engineering production. In their third and fourth years, they master vocational skills, after which they move on to more in-depth design and calculation problems. In 2025, the total enrollment across all programs will be approximately 40 students.
Each participant is assigned two mentors: from SPbPU – graduate students and faculty with experience in R&D, from Power Machines – active engineers and experts.
This is a unique opportunity for students to work on real-world problems in a professional environment, utilize modern educational facilities, and receive support in their research and practical work. Participants become part of the company's corporate culture and have the opportunity to accelerate their career development at one of the country's leading power engineering companies.
"We don't just invite students to the project; we give them the opportunity to launch a career as a future engineer," says Darya Lycheva, the project coordinator for Power Machines. "Here, they'll solve real-world problems, make mistakes, and correct them under the guidance of experienced mentors. This is the kind of experience that can't be gained from university lectures alone, and it's precisely this that helps our graduates quickly develop into professionals."
The next stage of the program officially begins in November 2025 and will last two years. Each year, SKB participants will complete a corresponding professional training program, eventually receiving diplomas upon successful defense of their final projects before the heads of relevant departments at Power Machines.
Each student signs an employment contract with JSC Power Machines for the duration of their participation. This allows them to combine study and work, taking into account their class schedule. From the first few months, participants receive a stable salary and additional performance-based bonuses. Additionally, a benefits package is provided, including voluntary health insurance, meal reimbursement, and a hybrid work arrangement—students spend part of their time at the university and part of their time at the company's production facilities.
Special attention was paid to targeted contracts at the meeting. For students who successfully complete the probationary period and demonstrate their commitment, the company guarantees a monthly stipend for the entire duration of their studies and subsequent employment as a Category 3 design engineer. In exchange, graduates agree to work for the company for two to three years (depending on their year of entry into the program). This approach ensures that the knowledge acquired at SKB is relevant to real-world engineering practice.
Success stories were a key focus of the meeting. One example: Polytechnic University graduate Alexander Yemelyanov began his career at SKB and, in three years, rose from a program participant to a second-category software engineer at the control software development bureau. Alexander noted that his experience at SKB helped him quickly adapt to the profession, taught him how to solve complex applied problems, and laid the foundation for his rapid career advancement.
The organizers emphasized that participation in the program is much more than just studying and working. Power Machines traditionally focuses on employee development and fostering a positive corporate environment. Young professionals participate in engineering competitions, scientific and technical conferences, leadership schools, and sports and creative events. All this not only develops professional competencies but also fosters the team spirit essential in a large industrial company.
Meet Day became the starting point for a series of events. On October 7, students completed an online career intensive, and on October 10, One Day Offer was held at the Leningrad Metal Plant—a day when you can receive a job offer immediately after an interview. Participants will then undergo three months of practical work, and in February 2026, an interim Demo Day will be held, where the students will present their projects and results to company experts.
SKB Power Machines – Polytech is an example of successful collaboration between university and industry, enabling students to launch their careers while still studying and take a confident step into the future.
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