How a Lathe Operator Turned Classroom Into a Hub for Future Engineers
Gulzara Zharymbetova has spent decades shaping young minds through hands-on technical education. Starting her teaching career at just 19, she now leads vocational arts classes at Gymnasium No. 21 in Almaty. Her work bridges traditional craftsmanship with modern skills, preparing students for technical careers.
Zharymbetova first trained as a lathe operator before spending 16 years instructing future turners and millers. Her early experience in production shaped her teaching philosophy, which emphasises practical work to build spatial reasoning, precision, and perseverance.
After relocating to Almaty, she transitioned into education, earning a second degree in Vocational Technology and Entrepreneurship with ICT Instruction. She also worked briefly as a school psychologist before returning to the classroom. In 2008, she co-authored an eighth-grade Technology textbook, focusing on the engineering section, which has since seen three reprints.
In her classes, Zharymbetova teaches technical drawing, tool handling, and machinery operation. She has twice renewed her Master Teacher certification and regularly mentors younger educators. Under her guidance, students have excelled in republican and international contests, winning awards in technical projects and 3D modelling.
Despite her successes, she remains concerned about the decline of technical drawing in schools. Once a core subject, it is now only briefly covered under arts and crafts. Zharymbetova argues for its return as a standalone discipline, believing it better prepares pupils for technical colleges and universities.
Zharymbetova's approach combines decades of industry knowledge with a passion for teaching. Her students gain skills that extend beyond the classroom, securing wins in competitions and building foundations for future careers. She continues to push for stronger technical education, ensuring practical training remains central to schooling.
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