JSC "Semey Engineering" is a vivid example of the development of Kazakhstan's domestic defense industry. Its establishment and growth are inextricably linked to the historical transformations and challenges of the 20th century, while its success is determined by the high qualifications of unique specialists, engineers, and workers who shape the company's promising production directions and strategic course.
The history of the plant began in 1976 when the decision was made to build an Armored Repair Plant (BTRZ) in the city of Semipalatinsk. This decision was driven by the need to create a major center for armored vehicle repairs in the Central Asian region, making the plant a strategically important facility for the Soviet Armed Forces. The primary task of the enterprise was to repair high-mobility armored personnel carriers such as the BTR-60 and BTR-70.
The factory's workforce played a crucial role in ensuring its stability and success after the collapse of the USSR. They consistently carried out their tasks with excellence, maintaining the high quality of the plant’s production throughout its existence.
In recent years, the plant has specialized in the repair and modernization of modern tanks for the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan. This allows it to remain the only enterprise in the region that carries out a full cycle of armored vehicle repairs.
Today, JSC "Semey Engineering" continues to evolve, adapting to modern challenges. However, its greatest asset remains its people—the employees who shape the company's future. The plant's workforce consists of highly qualified professionals, including many veterans who have dedicated their lives to the development of the defense industry.
The company strives to create comfortable working conditions, ensure employee safety, and support professional growth.
One of the key factors in supporting and developing employees is the active work of the trade union, which primarily protects their interests and strengthens corporate culture. The union was established back in 1990 when the company was still registered as the State Enterprise "BTRZ." Over decades of operation, it has become an integral part of the company's corporate culture, contributing to improved working conditions and social support for employees.
For over 10 years, the trade union was headed by Kairat Makunovich Imanbekov—an Honored Mechanical Engineer of Kazakhstan and a fifth-category locksmith—who played a significant role in protecting workers' rights. Under his leadership, the Collective Agreement was updated every two years, cultural events and sports competitions were organized, summer vacations were arranged for employees and their families, and charitable assistance was provided to those in need. Additionally, under his guidance, cultural, recreational, and sports activities, as well as the trade union’s information policy, were actively developed.
Since 2024, the trade union has been led by Kanat Mukametkanovich Kuzbayev. With significant experience at the enterprise, he continues to focus on protecting employees' rights, improving working conditions, and expanding social support measures. Under his leadership, the trade union will continue its activities aimed at enhancing the well-being of the workforce.
Also, in 2024, a museum dedicated to JSC "Semey Engineering" and its history was opened. All work on its creation was carried out by the company's employees. They meticulously researched and collected archival data for inclusion in the museum's exhibition. In the future, the museum is expected to serve as an educational resource for new employees and young specialists, familiarizing them with the company's history and achievements.
The main mission of JSC "Semey Engineering" is to maintain the operational condition of military equipment, enhance its characteristics, and modernize it. However, behind every success of the plant are its employees—professionals whose dedication ensures the company's reliability and strength.