The power of knowledge: AUES teachers’ internship at AlES production facilities
From 1 to 11 July 2025, teaching staff from Almaty University of Energy and Communications named after G.Daukeyev underwent training at AlES production sites. As part of the program ‘Advanced training and internship course for teaching staff of educational institutions’, specialists from the departments of thermal power engineering and physics, power supply and renewable energy sources deepened their knowledge at real energy facilities, visiting the B.Orazbayev CHPP-1, CHPP-2 named after A.Zhakutov, CHPP-3, the Cascade HPP and the Kapshagai HPP named after Sh.Chokin.
The aim of the internship was to consolidate theoretical foundations in real production conditions, systematize knowledge and familiarize oneself with modern technological solutions in the field of heat and electricity generation.
“The internship was intense and fruitful. Thanks to competent and enthusiastic mentors, we were able to truly immerse ourselves in the production processes, from design to equipment regulation. The knowledge and observations we gained will definitely be useful in our work with students. The atmosphere at the facilities was friendly, and the explanations provided by the specialists were extremely clear and accessible. This is invaluable,” said Jean Kalenova, assistant professor in the Department of Thermal Power Engineering and Physics.
The participants paid particular attention to issues of energy efficiency and ecology. The visit to CHPP-1 and CHPP-3 was accompanied by detailed lectures and excursions. Participants were told about the principles of cogeneration, the organization of machine rooms, and modern gas cleaning units that reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere. Of particular interest was the comparison of the efficiency of traditional and cogeneration stations, where efficiency can reach 70-80%.
“It was very valuable to see not just a diagram, but working equipment. For example, at TPP-3, we studied steam turbines and generators, which we usually only read about in lectures,” noted Professor Gulimbergenzhanova.
The Cascade HPP made a particular impression: participants were able to examine the turbine and generator in detail, which gave them a unique opportunity to learn about the design features of the equipment in real life.
Azamat Sagadiyev, head of the Cascade Hydroelectric Power Plant’s technical training department, gave us an informative and professionally organized tour. His enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge were evident in every explanation. We would like to invite such specialists to universities to work with students. We were inspired by the people who produce light and heat every day, and now we will pass on this inspiration to our students with greater confidence,” said Ayaulym Yamanbekova, associate professor in the Department of Thermal Power Engineering and Physics.
During the internship, classes at the Personnel Training Department of AlES JSC were also particularly valuable: seminars on ecology, steam-gas installations, and the specifics of boiler and turbine equipment allowed us to deepen our theoretical knowledge.
In her review, internship participant Vera Baibekova, a practicing professor, noted: “The knowledge we gained broadens our teaching horizons. Now we can not only tell students how energy facilities work, but also show them based on real-life experience.”
Special words of gratitude were addressed to the staff who supervised the internship: heads of vocational training Sergey Tabakayev (CHPP-2 named after A.Zhakutova) and Azamat Sagadiyev (Cascade HPP), as well as OPP teacher Alexander Orlov, who demonstrated a high level of commitment, methodical approach and professionalism.
AlES JSC continues to develop cooperation with educational institutions, contributing to the training of future energy specialists, transferring practical experience and creating a platform for dialogue between science and industry.