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Duran Küçük, who has been part of the Hasçelik family for over four years, sincerely shares how the peaceful work environment contributes to both his family life and personal development. In this inspiring interview, he talks about the strong bonds he has built with his family and colleagues on his journey from working at the market to becoming an operator. From his passion for cars to his dedication to his children’s education, from his emphasis on occupational safety to his advice for future generations an inspiring conversation awaits you.
Could you briefly introduce yourself?
My name is Duran Küçük. I was born in Elbistan in 1987. Elbistan is a district of Kahramanmaraş, but unfortunately, many people don’t even know its name. In 1995, my family and I migrated to Istanbul. After living in Istanbul for many years, I moved to Gebze when I joined the Hasçelik family. I applied for this job upon a recommendation and started working here. Previously, our whole family was engaged in selling at the market. Before my military service, we had our own business. After returning from the military, I got married. My wife and I moved here together, and we’ve been married for 18 years. We have three children two daughters and a son and all of them are currently continuing their education.
What do you do in your spare time?
My passion for cars is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life for me. So far, I’ve owned three different cars. Two of them were Broadways. I personally took care of many parts from the engine to the headlights, from the window tinting to the smallest details. If it’s something I can fix myself, I don’t take it to a mechanic. I’ve never worked alongside a mechanic; I research online, watch videos, and commit what I see to memory in one go. My friends also often consult me about their cars.
How has your career progressed at Hasçelik?
I started working at Hasçelik in the packaging department. My performance was quickly noticed, and I moved on to become an operator. Now, I work as a cold drawing operator. I truly love the work environment here. We have open communication with our managers. We easily reach our required tonnage targets and continue our work peacefully. We also have excellent social areas; there is always tea and coffee available.
What motivates you most when coming to work?
The shift system provides a big advantage for me. I’m used to waking up early from my days at the market. Now, I have three children, and dropping them off at school in the morning gives me great peace of mind. Especially since I have two daughters, I feel even more at ease. I drop them off and come to work with a clear mind.
What do your colleagues mean to you?
The friends we spend most of our day with naturally become like family. We even meet up with some of them as families. Our kids know each other and spend time together. On weekends, while we work on cars, the kids play together. Working in such a pleasant environment is a big blessing.
What advice would you give to newcomers?
One must know how to learn well. And in the years ahead, never hesitate to share what you know because knowledge grows when shared. The person in front of you is also trying to make a living. My most important advice: don’t rush. Most accidents happen because of haste. I’ve seen many people who say, “I know this job,” get into accidents. Often, beginners who are cautious about what they don’t know are more careful. So, learning patiently and carefully is key. Occupational health and safety always come first.
What makes you happiest at Hasçelik?
I have participated in many events here. Especially the barbecues and fishing trips organized during Mr. Önder’s time were unforgettable. The family trips to Bodrum and Izmir were also wonderful. Even my wife really loves this environment. That warmth and sense of togetherness make us happy. I can say I’m one of the employees who participates in the most social activities organized at the factory. I love fishing sometimes I come back with just one fish, but what matters is experiencing that atmosphere.
What is the most valuable advice you have ever received?
The greatest advice I received in my working life was from my shift supervisor. On my first day, just as I was about to pick up an unhealthy habit, he took it away from me and said, “You won’t do this.” I experienced the same thing during my military service my commander took it away from me too. Since that day, I never went back. May God bless them both. I owe my health to them. I could say I’m an advocate for a healthy lifestyle now.
Finally, is there a message you’d like to share with your family or children?
My biggest wish is that they never stray from the right path. I want them to build their future by standing on their own two feet and with their own effort. I have always progressed through my own hard work. I paid for my own wedding expenses, I bought my own furniture. In difficult times, my family supported me, but at its core, I always stood on my own strength. This is what I tell my children: you can’t build a future relying on others.
Duran Küçük’s heartfelt reflections on his life and work once again highlight the warmth and sense of unity within the Hasçelik family. Deeply devoted to both his job and his family, Küçük offers not only the perspective of a dedicated employee but also an inspiring example of a meaningful life.
