An Australian Industry Viewpoint: The Contractor Delivering Results for the Rehabilitation of Nations at War

Abstract

WorleyParsons conducted many difficult contracts for the US Army Corps of Engineers overseeing the reconstruction of Iraq, restoring oil services, the electric grid, and road, rail and port infrastructure. WorleyParsons faced four major challenges in delivering these major projects. First was a difficult contractual relationship where the contractors (US Army Corps of Engineers) issued contracts according to their goals which sometimes differed from those of the operators—of which there were many in the Iraqi Government. Second, the Iraqis’ understanding of their own infrastructure was poor, and activity to repair or improve it was consequently difficult. Third, the state of supporting infrastructure and engineering expertise was problematic, causing difficulties in the delivery of higher-order infrastructure. Fourth, security was an ever-present concern, and the sporadic involvement of coalition forces in securing worksites prevented steady progress from being made. Flexibility and a focus on security were the two major lessons learned by the engineers of WorleyParsons during their time working in Iraq. Finally, for private contractors to operate efficiently and effectively on reconstruction projects during conflict, support, partnership, trust and information sharing at all levels between military and contractor personnel must be established and nurtured at all times. This will help to minimise friction and maximise the potential benefits that civilian contractors can bring to these types of reconstruction operations.