Global sales of cryogenic fuel, primarily liquefied natural gas (LNG), reached 5.2 billion US dollars in 2024. According to estimates by the consulting company Market-Research-Intellect, annual turnover will approach 10 billion by 2033. Most importantly, experts predict a “paradigm shift” in the market: technological advances and changing consumer preferences will give a powerful impetus to this type of motor fuel.
The Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation forecasts an increase in the number of vehicles running on liquefied natural gas to at least 6,500 units by 2029. Support for projects involving the creation of cryogenic fueling stations is an integral part of Russia’s Energy Strategy through 2035.
Students of Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University have the opportunity to participate in the implementation of projects in this promising sector of energy. In particular, they serve as interns at Gazprom LNG Technologies LLC. This specialized company within the Gazprom Group has been designated as the sole operator for the implementation of small-scale liquefied natural gas production projects within the holding. In addition to constructing LNG liquefaction complexes, the company organizes the logistics for LNG delivery to distribution points, develops sales infrastructure, and promotes the transition of transport and equipment used by end consumers to LNG as a fuel for internal combustion engines and power installations.
In February of this year, an academic partnership agreement was signed between Gazprom LNG Technologies and Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University. This form of cooperation provides for close involvement of the company in the educational process through continuous collaboration with the specialized Department of Practical Skills and Experience.
Representatives of the company and the university jointly evaluate the level of students’ acquired professional skills and organize the work of the qualification commission for determining residual knowledge. Representatives of the academic partner also participate in the defense of graduation projects. For employees of the company working with interns, a new status has been introduced: “Industrial Mentor of Students.”
Ivan Kozhevnikov, General Director of Gazprom LNG Technologies LLC, spoke in an interview with Forpost about student internships and the company’s personnel policy.
– Ivan Nikolaevich, the new model of engineering education that Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University is developing and implementing within the framework of the federal pilot project significantly affects the subject of industrial training. In your opinion, how important is it to strengthen the practical component of education?
– Strengthening the practical component of education, in particular by increasing the duration of industrial training, is quite important for the professional development of students and their subsequent successful integration into employing companies. Practical training enables students to consolidate and expand the theoretical knowledge acquired during their studies, to become acquainted in practice with production technologies and labor organization. In addition, longer training periods allow students to gain a deeper understanding of the specifics of the profession, to establish professional contacts, and to collect materials for their graduation qualification projects.
– What types of internships do students of Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University undertake at your enterprise?
– In 2025, students of the Mining University in their 4th to 6th years of study are undertaking internships at Gazprom LNG Technologies LLC. Two are placed in the Capital Construction Department, and another two in the Technical Operations Department.
– In your view, how important is it for a future engineer to acquire several working professions during their university studies? Which working professions would be most desirable for a young engineer who will join your enterprise?
– Acquiring several working professions during university studies is important for future engineers, particularly in practice-oriented fields such as industry or mining. This approach provides students not only with theoretical knowledge but also with real practical skills that are in demand in modern production. They allow a better understanding of technological processes, equipment, and the specifics of production tasks. Having working professions increases employability and career growth opportunities, since modern enterprises value specialists with hands-on production experience.
The most sought-after working professions for a young engineer include: fitter-repairman (diagnostic, repair, and maintenance skills are universal for most industries), operator of technological equipment, and electrician (understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, diagnostic skills, and repair of electrical systems).
– How in demand is the profession of research engineer today, and what is the need for technological innovations?
– Today, the profession of research engineer is highly in demand, especially in the context of the active development of high-tech industries and the necessity of introducing innovations, as well as at enterprises focused on technological advancement, import substitution, and improving the competitiveness of products. Employers value research engineers for their ability to generate innovative solutions, analyze data, and conduct experiments.
– How severe is the shortage of engineering personnel in today’s economy, and at your enterprise in particular? What specialists does your company need today, and what competencies do you expect from young professionals first and foremost?
– Qualified engineers will always be able to find employment, and they are welcome at our company as well. In particular, mechanics and power engineers with knowledge of computer-aided design programs, building codes and standards, the ability to work with design, construction, and working documentation, as well as practical skills in handling technological equipment, are especially in demand.