Adrian Hamczyk, a Polish engineer, first arrived in China nine years ago when he was 26.

Hamczyk, who studied mechanical automation, started his career working for a German company, which required him to travel to China frequently.

In 2020, Hamczyk switched jobs and joined Tesla's Shanghai company, which is located at the Shanghai Gigafactory in Lin-gang Special Area of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone.

Tesla in Lin-gang Special Area. [Photo/WeChat ID: shlgguanweihui]

At Tesla, Hamczyk found numerous opportunities to grow professionally. "I can learn a lot here, and I have great collaboration with other engineers. Yes, there are sometimes challenging situations at work, but those difficulties are part of personal growth. Every day, every project, every challenge makes you stronger. It's definitely a great experience and an excellent development process," he said.

Through his daily work and interactions with his colleagues, Hamczyk also gained a deeper understanding of the Chinese culture. "I think Chinese people are incredibly hardworking and dedicated to their work. This level of focus and commitment greatly influences the production capacity of our vehicles," he commented.

Hamczyk has been working in Lin-gang for three years and he recently obtained a Permanent Residence Certificate. The application process took him over a year. "It's becoming increasingly difficult for foreigners to obtain PR, so I consider myself fortunate to have received it. With this, I can undoubtedly enhance my quality of life in China and simplify many procedures. It's not something everyone can obtain," he said.

Hamczyk plans to stay in Lin-gang for the long term. "It's convenient for me to commute to work from here, and the surrounding development is continuously improving. If you have excellent job opportunities in this area, then it is the right place for you," he said.

Over the years, Hamczyk has witnessed Lin-gang's transformation into a highly livable area. Every day, the Tesla shuttle bus takes him and his colleagues to and from the factory and their respective residences. He still remembers when he first arrived – the roads were in poor condition due to ongoing construction works everywhere. His commute alone would take 50 minutes each way.

Today, with the factory completed and roads repaired, transportation is smooth, and it only takes him less than 20 minutes to travel from his home to the factory.

Hamczyk's journey in China has been a most memorable one, both professionally and personally. With his PR in hand and an increasing appreciation for Lin-gang's development, he is determined to continue building his career and life in this thriving area.