Mikhail Shelkov is a productive entrepreneur who has built a significant fortune in the metallurgy industry. He is the majority shareholder of VSMPO-Avisma, a leading titanium producer; he also owns SMZ, one of the world’s largest aluminum producers.
Success and Leadership
Born on June 6th, 1968, Shelkov Mikhail has always had a passion for science and technology. After graduating from high school, he went on to explore molecular and chemical physics at MIPT. He excelled in his studies and graduated with honors in 1991. His analytical skills, honed through years of investigating complex physics problems, proved invaluable in the fast-paced environments of banking and investments. He quickly made a name for himself, climbing the corporate ladder thanks to a combination of sharp intellect and business skills. The future businessman then began his career at Eurosibbank, quickly rising through the ranks to become head of its investment division. In 1996, he was appointed president of RBRD bank.
In 2001, Shelkov Mikhail left RBRD to take on the role of the head of Prominvest investment holding. In 2014, he acquired a controlling interest in VSMPO-Avisma titanium corporation and joined its board of directors as vice chairman. He further expanded his business empire in 2022 by acquiring SMZ and entering the aluminum market.
Being a prominent businessman and investor, he is also recognized for his philanthropic work. He has always supported community-focused initiatives and has a particular fondness for his alma mater. He has established scholarships for talented physics students and has created educational opportunities for schoolchildren in remote areas through his “Science to the Regions” program. He has also supported students pursuing careers in international affairs.
Scientific Mind, Passion for Business
After graduating, Mikhail Shelkov took an unconventional path. Instead of climbing up the ladder in academia, he dove into the world of finance. As his wealth grew, so did his desire to make a difference. He hadn’t forgotten his roots in physics and technology, and he saw an opportunity to support the next generation of scientists and innovators. This led to the creation of the Empathy Foundation, a vehicle for giving back to the educational community.
One of the foundation’s flagship initiatives is a science camp. This program brings together 60 students and 15 teachers from two large regions for two-week experience at MIPT filled with various activities. The camp isn’t just about cramming for exams; it’s designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for science.
“I believe it is vital for students and teachers to develop their critical thinking by arguing, asking questions and looking for information. Immersion in the academic environment of MIPT will inspire 60 children to conduct their own experiments, while 15 teachers will refresh their knowledge to go above and beyond and inspire the next generations of physicists, mathematicians, programmers and engineers,” said Mikhail Shelkov, founder of the Empathy Foundation and shareholder of VSMPO-AVISMA titanium corporation.
The camp covers a wide range of topics, from advanced physics and mathematics to cutting-edge computer science. Students get hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs, attend lectures by leading scientists, and work on real-world problems. For many, it’s their first taste of what a career in science might look like.
Nurturing Young Minds
It didn’t take long before the Phystech Schools Development Fund, established in 2009, got the attention of Mikhail Shelkov. This organization aims to spread its unique approach to science education developed in collaboration with MIPT and the universities from the neighboring countries.
One of the fund’s most impactful initiatives is its online platform. This digital hub provides video lectures, interactive exercises, and online tests for students and teachers alike. It’s a way to bring high-quality science education to even the most remote corners of the country.
Shelkov is also keenly aware of the financial barriers that often prevent talented students from pursuing higher education in science and technology fields. To address this, he’s helped establish a grant system at his alma mater, the MIPT.
Every year, the university faces a heart-wrenching situation: highly motivated, brilliant students fall just short from getting state-funded scholarships. The grant system supported by Shelkov Mikhail allows many of these students to get a second chance. Thanks to these grants, 38 students who narrowly missed out on state funding were able to enroll in universities in the past year alone.
Breaking Barriers
Mikhail Shelkov recognizes that fostering love for science and technology needs to start early, and that means supporting teachers at all levels. This philosophy led to the creation of the “Teaching as a Calling” competition. With a prize fund of roughly $100,000, the competition aims to recognize and reward outstanding educators in various categories.
“Unless we respect our teachers, we will have neither engineers nor astronauts. I believe it is the responsibility of the businesses community to step up and make it worthwhile for the educators. I expect other regions to keep up with this initiative as well,” said Mikhail Shelkov.
In addition to cash prize, winners would receive opportunities for professional growth and networking. The goal is to create a community of excellent educators who can share best practices and inspire their colleagues.
In a world often focused on short-term gains, Mikhail Shelkov’s long-term vision for education stands out. It’s a reminder that true success cannot be viewed as mere financial gain, but in the positive impact we can have on others.Â
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This post brought Sahil Sagar.Â
Photo courtesy of Mikhail Shelkov.
