Kingdom Businesses Get Twin Boost
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Author: Saudi Aramco News
Released 14 November 2007
DHAHRAN, November 14, 2007 -- International industry experts are improving the quality of local manufacturers by sharing their experiences through a program pioneered by Saudi Aramco’s Inspection Department.
Through the Inspection Department’s Twin Program, those experts will mentor local inspection engineers during their stay to reach the level of skill that they are required to have. It’s one more way the company is supporting the local economy, by increasing the Kingdom’s ability to provide the materials the company needs for its many projects, and preparing the work force for the future.
Isam A. Al-Bayat, left, and Nabil K. Al-Dabal discuss ideas to help develop local industry.
The Inspection Twin Program also provides young Saudi engineers opportunities to work overseas with major manufacturers and International Inspection Agencies to acquire skills and certifications while gaining exposure to world-class manufacturing operations. The Inspection Department leads the program with the help of local industries, company overseas offices and international inspection agencies.
Isam A. Al-Bayat, vice president of Engineering Services, expressed his support for the new ideas that will develop the local industry.
“This is a breakthrough in the way we conduct business, and I encourage all organizations to think outside the box for the best interests of the country,” he said.
“We need to increase the Saudi content in all business sectors, particularly in the manufacturing side. The Inspection Department approach of bringing international experts will positively impact the local economy and Saudi Aramco projects, especially within the tight market conditions for piping.”
Akira Narita, the first expert to arrive in Saudi Arabia, is a specialist with more than 40 years experience in the Japanese piping industry. He led a team of Saudi inspection engineers to diagnose the technical and quality problems at a local piping mill, Group 5 Piping.
His review concluded with major recommendations that will influence both the manufacturer’s production practices and investment strategies, enabling the manufacturer to capture global and local business opportunities.
Group 5 Piping owner Tarq A. Al-Qahtani said he valued the move, adding, “We exist to support Saudi Aramco. This guidance from Saudi Aramco will enlighten our way for the right investment and consequently we satisfy Saudi Aramco’s needs.”
“In a highly competitive and volatile market, we have to streamline our efforts to produce highly reliable local manufacturers, with high-quality products, through which we can funnel supply for the company’s mega-projects,” said Inspection Department manager Nabil K. Al-Dabal. “The Twin program is part of our efforts to instill an internationally recognized quality reputation within our people and within our industry.”