To secure lasting progress in the economy, nations need to build substantial technological reserves, cultivate highly skilled personnel, and mobilize large-scale investment programs. This was the takeaway from the panel discussion titled “Technological development ecosystem of the chemical industry – personnel reserve of the industry,” held during the Russia fair as part of the Basic Industries Day. The conversation examined how a country can harmonize innovation, education, and capital to sustain growth across strategic sectors, with a specific focus on the chemical complex and its pivotal role in broader economic health.
As noted by the panel moderator, State Duma deputy Maria Vasilkova, strengthening technological sovereignty hinges on supplying qualified specialists. She emphasized that the shortage is most acutely felt in the chemical sector, where advanced materials, process optimization, and safe production rely on a steady stream of trained professionals. The discussion underscored that without a robust pipeline of talent, efforts to modernize industrial facilities and expand research capabilities risk stalling, constraining competitiveness in global markets.
Speaking on the broader impact, the panel highlighted the chemical complex as a driving force for developing key strategic industries. It was observed that downstream industries rely on chemical products to operate effectively, and a single job created within the chemical sector can generate additional employment across related fields. The speakers asserted that chemistry is closely linked to national security, and addressing personnel gaps requires a comprehensive, immediate response that aligns education, industry needs, and public policy.
Identifying practical strategies to attract and retain young specialists was a central topic. Panelists explored how to make chemistry careers appealing to new graduates, including clear career pathways, hands-on training, and closer ties between universities and industry projects. The goal is to transform interest into actionable talent pipelines that feed ongoing research and development while meeting the demands of modern manufacturing and sustainability initiatives.
Maria Ivanova, General Director of the Russian Union of Chemists and project manager at the Skolkovo Foundation, referenced the presidential platform “Russia is a Land of Opportunities” as a framework that enables emerging talents to be discovered, supported with grants, and guided by experienced mentors. The platform’s emphasis on real-world experience helps bridge the gap between academic study and industry practice, fostering a culture of innovation and practical skill-building across the chemical community.
Alexey Agafonov, First Deputy General Director of “Russia, the Land of Opportunities,” noted that the platform has been addressing personnel challenges for five and a half years. He pointed to a practical approach that includes launching internal personnel competitions within companies, using a proven methodology modeled after flagship contests like “Leaders of Russia.” Such programs aim to reveal leadership potential, accelerate professional growth, and create visible, scalable pathways for young specialists to advance within large organizations.
Experts agreed that one of the primary reasons for the persistent shortage of talent in the chemical industry is the absence of a national knowledge strategy that supports the sector from schooling onward. A cohesive plan would propagate essential science literacy, cultivate critical thinking, and ensure a steady flow of qualified entrants into higher education and industry pipelines. The discussion highlighted the need for coordinated efforts that align curricula with industry requirements, ensuring that graduates possess the practical competencies demanded by modern chemical production, safety standards, and environmental stewardship.
As the discussion progressed, the presidential platform for the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the “Russia is a Land of Opportunities” initiative, together with the Expert Council on the Development of the Chemical Industry under the State Duma Committee on Industry and Trade, collaborated with major corporate partners to chart a course for creating a robust talent pool. The shared aim is to position the country to dominate large-scale technological projects by ensuring the availability of skilled personnel, from the earliest stages of education through to advanced research roles and leadership positions within key enterprises.