A time of great change
 

My career unfolded during a period of extraordinarily rapid change. The refinery passed through successive stages: from a centrally planned economy, through political transition, to the free market and the digital revolution. We learnt as we went along; there were no ready-made solutions or textbooks. What was clear, however, was the tremendous determination of the people who wanted the company to grow, despite the changing circumstances.

The most difficult realisation was that the era of traditional crude oil refining was drawing to a close. Changing technological and economic requirements meant that the refinery could no longer continue operating in its existing form. For anyone who had spent their whole working life in this place, it was an extremely painful prospect. This was especially true because, for decades, the refinery had been a symbol of the city and one of the most important plants in Poland’s oil industry.

However, we were not prepared to accept that the plant’s history would simply come to an end. Together with a small team, we began work on a biofuel production project. It was a venture that required courage and a belief that the refinery could find its place in the new reality. Looking back, I regard this project as one of the greatest achievements of my career. Thanks to it, production has continued on the site of the former refinery, and the plant has had the chance to open a new chapter in its history.

People were the refinery’s greatest asset
 

The greatest asset of this place was never its installations or technology; it was the people. I was fortunate to work with outstanding specialists from whom, as a young engineer, I learnt not only about technology but also about taking responsibility for the decisions I made. I am particularly indebted to Henryk Malarz, who taught me patience and humility in the face of problems, showing me that every decision requires careful thought and calm analysis. Piotr Dudek, for his part, impressed me with his bold thinking and his ability to chart new directions for development. Marek Pindel was also a great source of support over the years: an outstanding professional, dedicated to the company, and an extremely reliable colleague.

There were many more people like them. Hundreds of people passed through the refinery gates over the years; I still remember them today and could spend a long time listing them by name. Each left their mark and helped to create an atmosphere in which work was more than simply carrying out daily duties. I have always believed that a company’s strength lies in its team. At the refinery, promotions were based primarily on knowledge, experience and the trust built up over years of service. We knew the people and we knew whom we could count on, which is why responsibility was entrusted to those who had already demonstrated their competence. This fostered mutual respect and a genuine sense of community.

A legacy that endures
 

The refinery was far more than a place of work. For decades, it provided employment for thousands of local residents, contributed to the development of Czechowice-Dziedzice and supported the town’s community life. For many people, it was a point of reference, closely connected with the daily lives of entire families. In many parts of Poland, the name Czechowice-Dziedzice immediately called the refinery to mind.

Now that I am retired, I look back on those years with a deep sense of peace and gratitude. The refinery allowed me to put the skills I had learnt at Wrocław University of Technology to good use; it gave me opportunities for development, the trust of my colleagues, and the satisfaction of being part of the history of an exceptional company. It taught me responsibility, respect for others and the belief that, even in the most difficult moments, it is worth looking for new solutions.

Its history is not only a history of installations and technology. Above all, it is a story of people: their work, their commitment and their sense of community. That, to me, is the most precious legacy of this place.