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We sat down with İsmail Kesici to talk about his 11-year journey at Hasçelik, filled with dedication and loyalty. Kesici stands out with his love for his family, the care he puts into his work, and his emphasis on team spirit. He carries an inspiring story both as an employee and as a father. Through his sincere responses, he openly shares his commitment to his profession and his life philosophy, offering a meaningful window for anyone who wants to understand the true spirit and values of Hasçelik.
Let’s get to know you briefly…
I’m İsmail Kesici. I was born in Samsun in 1977, and I’m 47 years old. I’ve been working at Hasçelik for 11 years now. At this point, I already see myself retiring from here. During this time, I’ve tried to do everything I can to build a good future for my family and children. I currently work as both a coil and cold drawing operator. Since we work in shifts, I can’t always follow matches regularly, but I try to watch whenever I get the chance.
I’ve been married for 19 years. I have two daughters — one is 18 and preparing for university, the other is 7. I prefer to spend most of my free time with my children. Almost 99% of my plans are centered around spending time with them. I want them to find love and affection at home, from me as their father, rather than searching for it elsewhere.
Daughters are truly something else. Even if I come home at 1 a.m., if she’s awake, she can’t go to sleep without coming to kiss me. That alone is enough to keep you going in life. I’m also a Fenerbahçe supporter.
“If There’s a Good Team Spirit, You Naturally Become a Part of That Team”
What do your teammates mean to you?
Honestly, I love my job in all its aspects. Teamwork, in particular, is very important to me. On our machines, we usually work in teams of two or three people. Sometimes it’s two, sometimes three. What really matters here is the harmony and efficiency within the team. If the team is solid and compatible, you can grow and be productive within it. Otherwise, when you’re disconnected from the team, you can only go so far on your own.
Actually, every job is a team job. Even today, you are here doing this interview, but without a cameraman, it wouldn’t happen. Who will ask the questions? Who will shoot the video? It’s just like our machines—everyone must do their part properly for a good result to emerge.
We’ve always been told, “The path is open for you—just keep improving yourself.” And we work with that mindset. For anyone who develops themselves and takes on responsibility, the road is clear. And we keep going as far as we can.
“I Love My Job and I Fulfill My Responsibility to My Family”
What motivates you most every day when coming to work?
First of all, I love my job. I’m someone who enjoys working. Being part of Hasçelik and having the opportunity to develop myself here makes me happy. Of course, another major motivation is my family. I have a responsibility to my wife and children. Earning an honest living and securing their future is my biggest driving force.
Our livelihood is here, so every morning when I come here, I’m not just coming to a workplace—I’m also stepping into a responsibility and a sense of belonging. Honestly, if I didn’t love my job, it wouldn’t have been possible to work in the same place for 11 years.
Because of shift work, we only get brief moments to catch up with our teammates. Everyone is generally focused on their own area. But even so, there’s a strong bond of sincerity between us. We may not have long conversations, but we share a relationship based on trust and warmth. That’s what makes the job more meaningful.
“You Must First Take Ownership of the Work, Then Understand the Machine”
What advice would you give to someone just starting this line of work?
First and foremost, someone who wants to do this job must take ownership of it. They need to start with enthusiasm and say, “This is my workspace.” They should work in harmony with their teammates and, most importantly, know the machine well. It’s not just about operating it—it’s about understanding it. For instance, if a material coming out of the machine is stacked differently than expected, instead of correcting each piece manually, they should ask why that’s happening.
That’s the key to working efficiently. If you identify the root cause of a problem, it won’t happen again. Once the issue is resolved at its core, the machine won’t keep stopping, and the workflow won’t be disrupted. It might only take a few seconds to fix in the moment, but over the course of a shift, those seconds can add up to half an hour or more. That’s why it’s crucial for newcomers to develop problem-anticipation, analysis, and problem-solving skills. Taking ownership of the job, being open to learning, and paying attention to every detail are the foundations for success in this profession.
“I Know I’m One of the Best at What I Do”
Do you have a slogan that defines your work?
I have high self-confidence. I can easily say that I’m one of the top few people who know this job best within Hasçelik 2 (Bright Steel Production Center). Of course, I don’t say that to brag—it’s the result of years of experience. With the knowledge and hands-on experience I’ve gained in operating machinery, I’ve always taken responsibility within the team. That’s what has made me one of the best at what I do.
“That Plaque Holds a Special Place in My Home”
What’s the proudest moment in your career?
Honestly, I’m happy with my job every day. But if I had to name a particularly proud moment, it would be the recognition we received on our 5th work anniversary. That day, we were presented with a plaque. It may not have been something materially grand, but emotionally, it meant a lot to me. Mr. Fatih, Mr. Naci, and Mr. Cem all came together to organize a celebration for us. That moment made me feel truly valued.
I placed the plaque in the most special corner of my house. Because it’s not just a memento—it’s a meaningful symbol that shows my family where I work and what kind of institution I’m a part of. My family also knows very well how Hasçelik values and takes care of its employees. That brings me even more pride.
“I’m Grateful Our Paths Crossed”
If you could thank someone today, who would it be?
I’d like to especially thank two people today: Atilla Kaya and Sercan Onur.
Atilla Kaya is my engineer. I’m particularly thankful to him because he helped me understand my early mistakes in the right way. He guided me, offered solutions, and provided an environment where I could learn and grow from my errors.
Sercan Onur was my mentor when I first started. In my first year, I worked closely with him. I learned how to operate the machines, understand the system, and perform the job practically from him. The patience and knowledge he shared with me during that time helped shape the professional I am today.
I’m truly grateful to both. I’m so glad our paths crossed.
“I’ve Never Been Bitter About My Work”
What’s the most important lesson you learned from your family that you apply to your work life?
The most important life lesson my father taught me from a young age was this: “Always earn your living honestly and rightfully.” That principle has guided my professional life as well.
For me, fulfilling my responsibilities completely, sticking to procedures, and upholding ethical values are top priorities. For example, intentionally stopping a machine or skipping a step in the process means not fulfilling my duties to both the company and my teammates. That’s why I always stay focused on performing my duties properly.
There are times in work life when difficulties or communication issues arise. But no matter what the situation is, it never affects my commitment or sense of responsibility to my job. Fulfilling the requirements of my job in the most efficient way possible is my constant goal.
“My Family: The Meaning and Strength of My Life”
If you could say something to your family and children, what would it be?
My family holds an indescribable place in my life. I can truly say, “Without them, I am nothing.” Especially my children — they are the most precious part of my life. They are not just my kids; they are also the most meaningful responsibility life has given me. The love I feel for them is beyond words.
Although I’m not someone who enjoys traveling much, I make it a point to dedicate every weekend to them. Even if we don’t go anywhere, we often take long walks together. Their happiness gives me strength.
The most important thing I want to tell them is about education. Knowledge is the foundation of everything in life. I sincerely hope they pursue their education, develop themselves, and reach great achievements. Seeing them stand on their own feet and grow into strong individuals would be the greatest joy for me.
“I Am Proud to Work at Hasçelik”
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Working at Hasçelik has always been a great source of pride for me. I’m truly satisfied with the years I’ve spent here. Even after retirement, the fact that Hasçelik still sees me as part of the family and allows me to remain involved shows just how much value the company places on its people. Their consistent view of us as a family makes me feel truly appreciated. I am incredibly happy to have the opportunity to continue this long journey with Hasçelik.
