Birutė Žiogaitė Vagonė, a process engineer at “Gren Klaipėda,” is a graduate of environmental engineering studies at Klaipėda University. She joined the “Gren” team almost a year and a half ago, seeking stable employment and opportunities for growth in engineering. Birutė reflects on her experience at “Gren,” noting that it is different from her previous roles due to the specificity of the work—her first time working with energy and heating networks.
Her workday begins with an analysis of the previous day’s production and challenges faced by colleagues, followed by analyses of heat and electricity production and smoke cleaning. If she notices any discrepancies, she investigates the causes, consults with colleagues, performs broader analyses, checks chemical material consumption, plans orders, and continuously improves spreadsheets.
In first year of her studies, she studied general engineering subjects such as theoretical mechanics, physics, material resistance, advanced mathematics, and drafting. Later, she delved into specialized subjects like cleaner production methods, chemistry, and technological processes.
After applying the theoretical knowledge gained during her studies, she worked practically for five years as a technologist and later as a process engineer in a company manufacturing automotive electrical wiring harnesses. During that time, Birutė was responsible for the production process, defect analysis, and improvement opportunities. She continued her career in a company specializing in ozone technology design, working as a technology engineer, analyzing customer requests, and providing specialized technological solutions.
The position of a process engineer means continuous surveillance, as the process can change at any moment. Being attentive, meticulous, insightful, and connecting different pieces of information help her improve her personal and professional skills. According to Birutė, success comes with diligence and adaptability, and her work at “Gren” is characterized by the dynamic nature of the processes.
When asked about her most significant achievement at “Gren” and future projects and goals, Birutė mentions that success is best spoken through implemented projects, and colleagues best evaluate the results. She appreciates the constructive and supportive teamwork at “Gren,” where colleagues willingly help and patiently explain processes. Regarding the company’s internal culture, she highlights that colleagues often discuss various topics, accept various suggestions, and come together as a team when needed.
For those aspiring to build a career at “Gren,” Birutė advises not to give up and to closely monitor job postings, as new positions are not frequent, and employee turnover is low. She suggests considering internships as valuable opportunities to familiarize oneself with the company’s processes, interact with industry professionals, and gain practical experience. Working in a cogeneration power plant in the region, which is the only one of its kind, is meaningful and exciting, according to Birutė.