My interest in STEM developed during my studies in higher education and further strengthened through my professional teaching experience in vocational education. Working with students in technical and construction-related disciplines, I became increasingly engaged in modern technologies, innovative teaching methods, and practical applications of science and engineering. Over time, participation in educational projects and the integration of digital tools in learning further inspired me to explore STEM as an essential part of preparing students for future careers.
Your organization field and mission
Our organization operates in the field of vocational education and training. Its mission is to prepare qualified, competitive specialists for the labor market by providing high-quality practical and theoretical education. We focus on developing professional skills, promoting innovation in teaching, supporting inclusive education for internally displaced students, and fostering personal and professional growth of young people.
Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization
I am a teacher at the State Educational Institution “Kostiantynivka Higher Vocational School.” I am responsible for delivering vocational education, developing students’ professional and practical skills, and preparing them for successful employment. I also participate in educational projects, support innovative teaching methods, and contribute to the development of inclusive and student-centered learning environments.
Your interest in STEM
My first role model was one of my school teachers who inspired me through dedication, professionalism, and a passion for teaching. This experience shaped my desire to become an educator and support students in their learning journey.
Currently, my role models include innovative educators and leaders in vocational and STEM education who promote modern teaching approaches, inclusive learning, and the integration of digital technologies in education. I am also inspired by colleagues who work to improve educational opportunities for internally displaced students and contribute to educational development in challenging contexts.
Your studies
During my studies, one of my biggest challenges was balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application, especially in technical and engineering subjects. Access to modern equipment and technologies was sometimes limited, which made it more difficult to gain hands-on experience at the level required by industry standards. Another challenge was developing confidence in using digital tools and integrating them into learning processes.
However, these challenges helped me grow professionally. They motivated me to continuously improve my skills, seek additional learning opportunities, and adapt to new educational technologies. As a result, I developed strong adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning, which I now apply in my teaching practice.
My advice to girls and women who want to pursue studies in vocational education, construction, and STEM-related fields is to believe in their abilities and not be limited by stereotypes. These fields are full of opportunities for creativity, innovation, and professional growth. It is important to stay curious, be persistent, and continuously develop both practical and digital skills. Challenges will arise, but they should be seen as opportunities for learning and self-improvement. With dedication and confidence, women can successfully build strong careers and become leaders in technical and engineering professions.
You at work
Our organization actively promotes DEIS (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Sustainability) principles through various initiatives. We provide inclusive education opportunities for internally displaced students and ensure equal access to learning regardless of background or personal circumstances. Special attention is given to supporting vulnerable groups, including students affected by war and social challenges.
We integrate modern, student-centered and competency-based approaches in teaching to ensure equity in learning outcomes. Our projects also focus on digital inclusion, STEM education development, and the use of innovative technologies in vocational training.
I am most proud of successfully supporting students in developing their professional skills and helping them become confident and competitive specialists in their fields. Despite challenging circumstances, including relocation and working with internally displaced students, I have continued to provide stable, high-quality vocational education and maintain students’ motivation to learn.
I am also proud of my involvement in educational projects that introduce innovative teaching methods, digital tools, and STEM approaches into vocational education. These initiatives have helped improve the quality of learning and made education more practical, modern, and engaging for students.
Your point of view
Technology empowers women by providing equal access to education, information, and professional opportunities, regardless of their location or social background. Digital tools and online learning platforms enable women to develop new skills, pursue STEM and vocational careers, and participate in global professional communities.
It also supports flexibility, allowing women to balance education, work, and personal responsibilities through remote learning and digital workplaces. In addition, technology helps amplify women’s voices, encourage leadership, and reduce gender gaps in traditionally male-dominated fields such as engineering, IT, and construction.
By increasing access, visibility, and independence, technology becomes a powerful tool for women’s personal and professional growth.
My advice to girls and women who want to build a career in vocational education, construction, and STEM-related fields is to be confident in their abilities and not be discouraged by stereotypes or traditional expectations. These sectors require creativity, critical thinking, and persistence—qualities that women strongly contribute to.
It is important to continuously learn, develop practical and digital skills, and take advantage of every opportunity for professional growth. Mentors, role models, and hands-on experience can play a key role in building confidence and competence.
Women have strong potential to succeed and lead in technical and engineering professions, and their contribution is essential for innovation and the future development of these industries
By 2030, I would like to see DEIS principles fully integrated into vocational education and training systems, ensuring equal access, participation, and success for all learners regardless of gender, background, or personal circumstances. Education should be truly inclusive, with strong support systems for vulnerable groups, including internally displaced students and learners from disadvantaged communities.
I would also like to see a significant increase in women’s participation in STEM and technical fields such as construction, engineering, and digital technologies, supported by mentorship, role models, and inclusive learning environments.
In addition, I hope that vocational education institutions will be fully equipped with modern technologies and innovative teaching methods, allowing all students to develop relevant skills for the future labor market. Ultimately, DEIS should not be an initiative, but a standard practice embedded in every aspect of education.
To finish with
My core values are professionalism, responsibility, and continuous development. I believe in providing high-quality education that supports students’ personal and professional growth. I value inclusivity and equal opportunities, ensuring that every learner—regardless of background—has access to meaningful education and support.
I also highly value innovation in teaching, openness to new ideas, and lifelong learning. Respect, empathy, and teamwork are essential principles in my work, as they help create a positive and supportive learning environment.
In the future, my main professional challenges will be adapting to the rapid development of digital technologies and continuously updating my teaching methods to meet modern educational standards. As vocational education becomes more technology-driven, it will be important to further strengthen my competencies in STEM, digital tools, and innovative pedagogical approaches.
Another challenge will be supporting students in a changing and often uncertain social environment, especially those affected by displacement and socio-economic difficulties. This requires strong emotional intelligence, flexibility, and the ability to create inclusive and motivating learning conditions.
At the same time, I see these challenges as opportunities for growth, continuous learning, and improving the quality and impact of my professional work.
By 2030, I hope my career will have evolved into a more advanced role in vocational education, where I actively contribute not only as a teacher but also as a mentor, trainer, and leader in educational innovation. I aim to deepen my expertise in STEM and digital education, integrating modern technologies into teaching practice and supporting the development of future-oriented skills among students.
I also hope to be more involved in international educational projects and partnerships, sharing experience and learning from global best practices. A key goal for me is to contribute to the development of inclusive and high-quality vocational education systems that provide equal opportunities for all learners, especially vulnerable groups.
Ultimately, I see my professional growth as a continuous journey of learning, leadership, and meaningful impact on students’ lives and their future careers.
The current activity has been implemented in the framework of the Project: Code4Europe,
GA Number: 101158834. Official project website : https://codeweek.eu/