Many people work at KCT, but one duo stands out for their special bond. Their professional histories intertwine so naturally that it seems as if one generation is gradually passing the baton to the next. This is a story about respect and connection, which is strengthened not by grand gestures, but by everyday, simple things.

Kazimieras – a long-time work safety officer

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Kazimieras Norvaiša joined our terminal 17 years ago, when we were looking for someone who could strengthen our work safety area. "At that time, the construction company I was working for went into crisis, and the terminal needed an environmental protection specialist, so that's how I ended up here. You could say it was the right time and the right place," recalls Kazimieras.

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Before starting work at the terminal, Kazimieras worked as a teacher for 11 years, including 6 years as a physics teacher at several schools in Klaipėda and as a physics lecturer at the Klaipėda branch of the Kaunas Polytechnic Institute. There, he taught physics to our current manager, Vaidotas Šileika. Kazimieras' teaching experience comes in handy today—he is able to clearly convey both theoretical and practical work safety principles to new employees.

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It is no coincidence that Kazimieras is often one of the first people to meet our newcomers – he helps them understand that safety is not a formality, but part of the work culture.

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His work has been full of responsibility from the very beginning. In 2008, the terminal underwent intensive changes, and it was necessary to ensure that loading processes were not only fast but also safe. "The most important thing was to find a compromise between speed and safety. Complying with requirements without hindering work is always a challenge," he says.

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Over nearly two decades, Kazimieras has become a true expert in occupational safety. He remembers how attitudes towards employee safety have changed: "In the past, institutions were responsible for everything, but now it is the company itself. This means that safety has become a real responsibility rather than a formality."

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Today, Kazimieras is one of those people who shape the company's culture from within. His calm tone, systematic thinking, and ability to listen to other colleagues help create an environment where safety becomes a natural part of work. "The most important thing is not to punish or prohibit, but to explain why we do something one way or another," he adds. "When people understand why it is necessary, safety becomes self-evident."

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Matas – the younger generation with a new perspective

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Matas' path to the terminal began unexpectedly. "At first, I was looking for various jobs, but several attempts were unsuccessful, and then my dad said that the terminal needed people. I came to try it out – and stayed," he says. Matas started as a talman, but now he is an environmental protection specialist.

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After graduating from Klaipėda University with a degree in Chemical Engineering (Environment and Energy), he approaches his work responsibly, but without high expectations: "I never plan too much—I came for a short time, but I've been working here for four years now. Now I'm learning, deepening my knowledge, and when I need to, I can always consult with my dad."

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Kazimieras is happy about this: "I'm glad that Matas is eager to learn and interested. I can pass on my knowledge to him without any barriers—I know how he will react, and that makes the process much easier."

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Matas' work in the field of environmental protection is becoming increasingly important for a company that cares about sustainable operations. "I am interested to see how the terminal adapts to modern requirements – from waste sorting to ensuring that loading processes and the impact of operations on the environment are properly managed and comply with legal regulations.

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Environmental protection is not just about documents—it's about real actions and their results. It's nice to know that I can contribute to even cleaner and more responsible terminal operations," says Matas.

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Intergenerational dialogue – without words, but with respect

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Although father and son work at the same company, they strive to maintain a balance between work and personal life. “We hardly ever talk about work at home – work stays at work,” says Kazimieras. However, their connection is visible every day – they both ride their bikes to work. “That’s just how it turned out – it’s healthy, eco-friendly and just fun,” smiles Matas.

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Kazimieras often reminds his son of three important things: attentiveness, thoroughness, and logical thinking. "Environmental protection is a broad field. It's not just about sorting waste, but also about how we supervise loading processes and ensure that the impact of our activities on the environment is managed and meets all requirements. It's a responsible but meaningful job," emphasizes his father.

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Working together at the same company allows them not only to share knowledge, but also to understand each other better. "It's easy for us to get along—I know how my dad thinks, and he knows how I react. There is no need for long explanations, sometimes a glance or a single sentence is enough," says Matas. Such mutual respect and understanding allows them not only to work effectively, but also to maintain human warmth in their relationship.

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The journey continues

Although Matas himself says he doesn't know where he will be in ten years' time, his father's advice is important to him: "I can always ask him when I don't know something. Sometimes he checks, sometimes he just explains – everything happens naturally." Kazimieras is optimistic about his son's future: "I would like him not to stop at just one job. Environmental protection is a very broad field, but for now I am happy that he is here with me. The terminal needs responsible people, and that's exactly what Matas is."

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The professional path of father and son at KCT is a story of trust and continuity. It reminds us that the most valuable thing we can pass on is not only experience or knowledge, but also our attitude towards work, people, and responsibility. "We both strive to ensure that everything in the company runs safely and smoothly—just each in our own way," smiles Kazimieras.

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Their story is beautiful proof that generational differences do not divide, but complement each other. The experience of the older generation and the youthful outlook on new solutions create a balance that helps the company move forward and grow with every shipment.