When the daily routine of work winds down, a new chapter begins—one filled with big questions and exciting possibilities. About a year ago, we launched a program to support our Tecpetrol colleagues getting ready to take that next step into retirement. Today, Rubén Szych, the program coach, and Carlos Videla, one of the participants, share what the journey has been like for them.

Wrapping up a career is a major life moment—one that everyone experiences differently. For some, it’s a time of excitement and new projects, a chance to finally focus on things they’ve been putting off. For others, it feels more like stepping into unknown territory, where the daily rhythm and sense of belonging that work once provided are suddenly missing. After decades spent in a company that felt like a second home, the big question—what now?—can spark everything from enthusiasm to uncertainty.

Recognizing just how big this transition can be, last year we launched a pilot program under the Generations pillar of our +diversity initiative to support people as they approach retirement. The goal is about giving them the tools they need to plan and shape what’s next.

Rubén Szych, a coach who specializes in leadership and corporate management, refers to this as a major challenge: “Retirement isn’t just about leaving a job—it’s about letting go of a part of your identity. Work gives structure to life, and without it, there can be a real sense of emptiness. It’s important to understand that this isn’t the end but a chance to settle old scores with yourself.”

The program goes beyond offering support by inviting participants to pause, reflect, and really get to know themselves. “Every story is different, but there’s one thing everyone shares: the need to see this phase as a time for growth,” explains Rubén. “Studies show that when people have projects and a sense of purpose, their well-being and quality of life improve. The key isn’t just to accept this new stage—it’s about living it to the full.”

Carlos Videla, who spent his career in Tecpetrol’s Health, Safety, and Environment area, was one of the four participants on the pilot program. He admits he wasn’t sure what to expect at first. His career took him all over the world—from Asia to Europe—but retirement felt like a completely new kind of challenge. “This was the most unstructured program I’ve ever done—and as an engineer, used to measuring and planning everything, it really pushed me out of my comfort zone. And honestly, it was the best thing that could have happened. It helped me realize I needed to find balance and make space to enjoy time with my family,” he shares.

This opportunity for reflection has also helped Carlos see his own career from a new perspective. “In my generation, the rule was simple—work, work, work. I’ve learned that I need to give myself permission to finally do the things I’ve always wanted, like learning to play the saxophone,” he says. “I also realized how important it is to take care of my health, as, if I want to fully enjoy this stage, staying well is part of the plan. The program showed me that retirement isn’t an ending—it’s a chance to redefine my life with more freedom.”

For those approaching this transition, both Rubén and Carlos agree that the key is to start preparing ahead of time. “Retirement doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a process. Thinking about it ahead of time helps you face the future with more clarity and peace of mind,” Rubén reflects.

The program continues to grow and adapt to each person’s needs, but its mission remains the same: to support, to honor the road traveled, and to open the door to new possibilities. Or, as Rubén likes to say, “We are all works in progress—and we never stop learning.”

After the positive response to the pilot, this initiative is now officially part of the company’s support programs for employees nearing retirement, especially those with over 20 years of service in the Techint Group.