(MENAFN - Arab News) More than 400 out of 847 Saudi workers of Al-Rushaid Construction Company Ltd. (ARCC) were honored and recognized by Saudi Aramco recently. The young Saudis completed the replica of a plant as part of a skills development program.
ARCC initiated the program that was supported by JGC Arabia Ltd., the main contractor of Saudi Aramco central processing facilities in Manifa. The Saudi workers were involved in constructing, welding, fitting, installing and erecting a model plant project following their rigid off-site and theoretical training.
The building of the model plant started in September last year. The project aimed to provide a complete construction methodology, sequence of work, preparing the basic requirement of resources and it created an in-depth familiarity with the necessary tools and equipment for future construction and maintenance jobs. The on-site training helps to enhance the skills of Saudi workers specialized in electromechanical and construction work by implementing the Saudi Aramco standard in quality and safety.
"ARCC is not only committed to the Saudization program but at the same time we strive to employ quality personnel," said Mercado T. Magno, ARCC vice president and general operation manager. "That is why we decided to support their education and the development of their skills through a hands-on training until they become independent in their chosen construction discipline. Our priority now is to make the young Saudis we work with become better qualified and get a good compensation. We want our Saudi youth to become competitive in the construction industry and compete among local and foreign workers. The involvement of young Saudis in this project is leading to a rewarding career," he added.
Keizo Kawafuchi, site manager of JGC Arabia Ltd., congratulated the Saudi youths and praised them for their active role and participation in the construction of the model plant. "Some workers acquired the Saudi Aramco certification in welding or heavy equipment operation, or they got the proper work permit to perform the job. That is an advantage in the next level of their career. I can assure a bright future for those who really want to stand out," Kawafuchi said.
Saudi Aramco representative Mohammed Abdullah A. Al-Mana said: "It was only last year when the first soil was excavated to lay the foundation of what is now a model plant. This is a manifestation that Saudis can dominate the construction work and compete among other skilled workers in the field of construction."
To measure competency and the level of individual achievement, Saudi workers who excelled in their disciplines were honored with certificates for Best in Welding, Best in Scaffolding, Best in Safety, Best in Piping and Best in Electrical field.
Previous Saudi workers at the model plant are now assigned to various project of ARCC, to use the skills they have learned in the model plant.
The model plant project will be implemented at the ARCC Training Center in Juaymah to be used as training ground for Saudi workers prior to their deployment at a project site. To continue the journey of these young men, they will also take part in the ARCC Skills Olympic on Nov. 7. During this competition, ARCC skilled workers will showcase their talent in their respective discipline, promote harmony and team spirit.
