On February 18, Texas-based engineering and construction company Fluor Corporation announced that its joint venture with Australia-based engineering and project delivery firm Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) has been awarded a contract worth approximately US$500 million by Australian miner BHP Billiton to execute the next phase of its rapid growth program. The focus of the project will be the continued expansion of BHP Billiton's iron ore operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
According to the announcement, the scope of the contract awarded to the Fluor-SKM joint venture includes overall program management activities and engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) services for specific elements of mine, port and rail works.
"The opportunity to continue our strategic relationship with one of our key clients and be integrally involved in such a landmark project is a true honor for Fluor. The JV is proud to have the continued confidence of BHP Billiton Iron Ore's management and we look forward to continuing to meet their expectations," Group executive of Fluor Corporation, Dwayne Wilson, stated.