Daniel Kesseler has been part of Techint Engineering and Construction since 1976, where he has contributed to iconic projects, always with his family by his side. Undoubtedly, a life on site.

With the clear goal of reaching 50 years of service at Techint Engineering and Construction, Daniel Kesseler continues to work with the same energy as always. Despite having retired in 2016, he currently serves as General Electromechanical Supervisor in the Neuquén Basin, traveling from one country to another in step with new challenges, and he has no plans to take a break.

“Although I received the retirement benefit, I wanted to keep contributing. I felt I could do it, and the company gave me the opportunity. Since then, I've continued traveling and participating in interesting projects, like those in Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia. The pandemic slowed me down for a while, but I'm back!” Kesseler smiles.

Throughout his career, he has been part of multiple projects, many of which were emblematic for the company, such as OCP in Ecuador, the Camisea pipelines in Peru, and the Aguamilpa hydroelectric plant in Mexico. From the beginning, he took on various tasks related to construction, pre-commissioning, and commissioning. He moved throughout Latin America and even to Saudi Arabia, where his children attended part of high school.

Regarding the challenges and particularities of the projects, he explains: “It's like we're always acting with a different script and on a different stage. The engineering isn't the same, the place isn't the same, the people aren't the same. We face the new but trust in the team that accompanies us.”

In this interview, Kesseler shares details about his journey, offers advice to young professionals, and highlights the role of his family.

What motivated you to dedicate yourself to projects that required so much effort and international relocations?

A person who works in construction travels to different places and has a nomadic spirit. I was fortunate that my wife was enthusiastic and accompanied me with our children at every stage. This is fundamental because having your family by your side also gives you a life discipline. At Techint E&C, they helped me with family organization, which I value the most.

Were your children born while you were working on projects?

Exactly. Martín was born when we started Furnace 4 at TenarisSiderca. Now he's an electrical engineer and also works at Techint. Sebastián arrived two and a half years later and is a cardiologist. A year later, Nadia was born, who has a degree in Political Science and International Relations. After many years, while we were living in Saudi Arabia, our youngest daughter, Denise, was born. She is currently doing her surgery residency at a hospital. They worked very hard, and I'm very proud of them.

Did you work with your eldest son for Techint E&C?

Yes. I was in Bolivia when they called me to go to Peru to work on a thermoelectric plant near Lima. I had already collaborated in that country, so I knew the market. My son was an Electrical Superintendent, and the experience of working with him was wonderful, one of the most rewarding I've had.

What is the key to success?

To have a happy and comfortable life, you must feel passionate about what you do. It's like the passion you feel for a football team: whether they're first or last in the league, you'll always support them. Techint ensures its people work passionately, both in Argentina and the rest of the world. Once, in Saudi Arabia, I came across a Bedouin driving a group of camels from his pickup with the "T" for Techint engraved on the door. In Peru, people were proud to have the "T" printed on their clothing.

What do you value most about spending a life on site?

Above all, we, builders are like artists. We have a desire to create and see the project we envisioned come to fruition. Additionally, the projects we have worked on stay with us for the rest of our lives as our own work.

How important is camaraderie?

Over the years, I realized I couldn't have done it without the friends I made. Team members become friendships. I met many people, had countless colleagues, and we always worked as a group.

What advice would you give to a young professional?

Today's young people are more prepared than we were, but it's essential they know that Techint, no matter how large it is, is a family company. It supports you in every project. It will never take the stance of just paying a salary and disengaging.

To a young person just starting, I would say to stay close to their family, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and focus on safety.