KBR Loses Afghanistan to Fluor & Dyncorp
DynCorp, Fluor Win Afghan Support Work Worth Up to $7.5 Billion
By Tony Capaccio
July 7, 2009 (Bloomberg) — DynCorp International Inc. and Fluor Corp. have been picked over KBR Inc. for five-year contracts worth as much as $7.5 billion for each company, if all options are exercised, to support the U.S. troop build-up in Afghanistan, according to an Army official.
Falls Church, Virginia-based DynCorp International Inc. and Irving, Texas-based Fluor Corp. each won basic one-year contracts worth as much as $1.5 billion and four one-year options, Jim Loehrl, executive director of the Army Rock Island, Illinois, Contracting Center, said in a telephone interview.
Today’s awards are the sixth and seventh — and largest — since the program was revamped in April 2008 into a competition that now pits Houston, Texas-based KBR, the incumbent contractor that won the original logistics contract in 2001, against DynCorp and Flour for individual tasks. KBR hasn’t yet won a task order.
KBR “remains committed to providing the Army quality service,” KBR spokeswoman Heather Browne in an e-mail response to a request for comment. “We remain proud of the work we have performed and we are humbled to serve our troops.”
DynCorp will take over services KBR provided for tasks such as laundry, food services and maintenance for existing base camps in southern Afghanistan. It also will build new bases as needed to accommodate the increase to about 68,000 troops from about 57,000 today. Fluor will take over similar services in northern Afghanistan.
Asked why KBR didn’t win any of the new orders, Loehrl declined to provide specifics.
Past Performance
The selection process took into account the technical aspects of a proposal, past performance and cost, Loehrl said.
“The Army awarded contracts to the companies that provided the best value,” he said.
Houston-based KBR, then a unit of Halliburton, won the prior competitive logistics contract in December 2001 and has since become the largest contractor in Iraq. That contract is worth $31.7 billion this year, according to Army figures.
“KBR has a proven track record of serving the military in an austere and unpredictable environment,” Browne said in her e-mail. “Our commitment in this regard will continue.”
KBR has drawn continued criticism from Pentagon auditors for its bookkeeping practices and costs incurred with the contract even as it has been praised by troops and commanders for the services provided.
A congressionally mandated independent bipartisan panel on wartime contracting concluded in its first report last month that KBR wasted billions of dollars through inefficiencies, lax oversight and poor management of its contract.
“The services could have been delivered for billions of dollars less,” the commission said in a report released at a hearing of the House Oversight and Government Reform’s national security panel. “Substantial evidence supports the view” that KBR’s services “cost too much.”
Loerhl said KBR was entitled under the law to protest the awards. (click HERE for the original article)
First KBR loses Kuwait and now Afghanistan. Hmmm. If we can’t get them to pay in the “jury award” area, we can try to get them in the “no more billion dollar contracts” area.
Looks like I have a new Heather Brown quote!! “We remain proud of the work we have performed….” Really?
Ms Sparky
Tuesday, July 7th 2009 at 8:26 pm |
Apparently someone, somewhere is listening…DCAA, DCMA, DoD????
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Listening??? I think they have been shamed into it. The DoD is finally being called to task by lawmakers.
Tuesday, July 7th 2009 at 11:34 pm |
Wow! Some of us been waiting since last year for this situation to resolve.Now can we get that pay increase they been talking about? And what about LogcapIV? is it going to start now?
Ms Sparky’s Response:
That’s a good question. I think the transition is supposed to be starting right away.
Tuesday, July 7th 2009 at 11:59 pm |
Question? This has nothing to do with the article, but does anyone have the scoop on CSA Ltd. out of Kuwait? good or bad?
Ms Sparky’s Response:
The feedback is about 50-50 so far.
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 1:14 am |
Jim Luchsinger had a conference call today at 12h00 about this. He also had an answer via email saying he “was shocked” about losing it. Really? If he would have been listening to the worker bees instead of covering up for the poor managers and the Leesville Gang then maybe KBR had a chance. Case in point: Why have an electrician go out this month to do grounding and bonding and for the next three months have other electricians do a follow up on your work then have QA/QC do a final? It is more sensible to have 2 electricians check the G & B while having 2 “qualified” QA/QC inspectors there at the same time and then sign off. Job done and completed.( Answer: Poor managing skills, actuallly subpar ones) No he did not do this nor William Green or Nathan Wagner. They wanted to milk it out. (additioanl cost to the taxpayer) Speaking of milking it out, why is that the US Army is going paperless and KBR finds ways of increasing paperwork? Answer: cost plus expense and those papers must be archived for years. Hence a money motive and not looking out for the best interests of the client nor taxpayer. I see the KBR stock was at $16.23 today. In sum, Jim’s letter left an impression KBR will not appeal the decision. Now the TCNs are worried about their future since L4 will be 80% US and 20% TCN. There are many smiling faces today as many think there is hope for the future!!!!! with the new employer.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I know. “Shocked”?? It just goes to show me that he didn’t have a clue about what was really going on. Probably believing what his managers were telling him.
Sunday, January 24th 2010 at 9:35 am |
LOL, Luchsinger was still running it? There’s your sign!
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 5:39 am |
Warning!!!!!
Everyone will be blogging about all of the same issues a year from now minus the KBR name. No one is really addressing the real issue’s, with real solutions, which require changes in alot of policies, and procedures. Not just new contractor’s.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
You are correct. I am afraid, and I have been blogging about this too, that Dyncorp and Fluor will turn into KBR “minnie me’s”. They are sucking up KBR managers faster than they can be indicted.
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 5:50 am |
Common Sense said,on July 8th, 2009 at 5:39 am Warning!!!!!
Everyone will be blogging about all of the same issues a year from now minus the KBR name. No one is really addressing the real issue’s, with real solutions, which require changes in alot of policies, and procedures. Not just new contractor’s.
Thank you Common Sense. If the right people are listening perhaps the necessary changes and actions will be taken to stop the continued Fraud, Waste and Abuse. It is not just the company(ies) that allowed or condoned this to happen; it is also the individuals that committed the acts that needs to be addressed.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Let’s not forget about the DCMA’s role here!
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 8:30 am |
KBR’s downfall was there TCN to Expat ratio, damn near 50% of the TCN’s can’t even speak english for crying outloud and most held some pretty high positions. Explain me this: Expat and TCN on same pay scale? Your comparing cost of living in the states to the balkans?? Point is KBR was prior balkans, they tried to “take care” of thier prior balkan workers…and pay them so well? KBR needed to go, Fluor – dyncorp congrats! I hear that when it comes to paying TCN’s in your company you handle it a alot smarter, I am hoping to being able to work with one of you guys here in the near future.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
HIRE AMERICANS FIRST!!
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 9:27 am |
Well
Fluor pick up most of that poor managers so they will have same situation in year or 2
.
For “TCN” i will appreciate if you use official name Foreign national
if we don’t come to work here most of you will never learn hot to make table 5X10 in excel
KBR loose contract because of Expat skills.
I say before and i will say again you can not put somebody in manager position who’s only skill is to talk on English
you can not compare state with Balkan but you can compare rockets attacks in Iraq or Afghanistan. If i am FN that mean that rocket can not kill me?
and why you need to be payed more than me?
i am ready to challenge each expat on my site with my computer and policies knowledge.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I am sitting here trying to get caught up on my comment responses in the last few days. I am going to make this short and sweet to everyone involved. No more general American/Bosnian bashing. I will just delete your comment. That’s not what this blog about. If you have something specific to contribute then do so.
My personal opinion on hiring TCN’s/FN’s is that US Tax Dollars should be paid to US citizens first. And that doesn’t just mean Bosnians. That means everyone. And there are just as many lazy, corrupt, ignorant TCN’s/FN’s at there are Americans. With those things be considered. Lazy, corrupt, ignorant Americans should be paid the US Tax Dollars first.
I will be posting this response or one similar to each of the American vs. Bosnian comments. And from this point on I will just delete them.
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 9:33 am |
and yes
Jim Luchsinger was one of the smartest guys what i see on LOGCAP III, i still respect my ex supervisor. People around him suck, his only mistake is that he believe in fairy tales what they tell him every day.
G&B Master electricians from US were joke
probably they finish some 6 hours training in US and become Masters to replace light bulbs.
QA/QC was also joke you can not make QA/QC guy who clean showers and toilets(Bagram).
Same like you can not make CAMP manager guy who burn trash(Bagram). Or make Project manager guy who escort SST truck(Iraq)
anyway after 10 years with KBR i will remember always how “smart” expats were(not all but most of them) LOL
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I am sitting here trying to get caught up on my comment responses in the last few days. I am going to make this short and sweet to everyone involved. No more general American/Bosnian bashing. I will just delete your comment. That’s not what this blog about. If you have something specific to contribute then do so.
My personal opinion on hiring TCN’s/FN’s is that US Tax Dollars should be paid to US citizens first. And that doesn’t just mean Bosnians. That means everyone. And there are just as many lazy, corrupt, ignorant TCN’s/FN’s at there are Americans. With those things be considered. Lazy, corrupt, ignorant Americans should be paid the US Tax Dollars first.
I will be posting this response or one similar to each of the American vs. Bosnian comments. And from this point on I will just delete them.
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 11:05 am |
For your information lot of Bosnians already working for Fluor, and with regard for the Bosnian, Macedonian, Croatian that people is with a long tradition of civilization, while at least in your case would not have said you are probably a villager who came down from the top of the mountain and the first time you saw a man from Europe, shame you were at least Showing little respect for people work with you in the KBR, however their ancestors played piano, while you probably colonized America, do not forget that your fathers came from those countries, I mean in Europe, such as you throw shame to American people. I am American and my father is American but they are our ancestors came from Bosnia, so beware what you talking, because that is
Discrimination.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Oh no not discrimination!! That doesn’t with KBR or in the US.(sarcasm) In America people don’t have to agree with you or even like you. Welcome to American Freedom.
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 12:13 pm |
only problem is i heard reports DynCorp has some ugly humas slave stuff going on in Iraq. these choices- will have to be looked after/ scruntized too
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Absolutely. It’s one thing to come to Iraq voluntarily to bitch about not being paid the same as American’s. It’s another to be forced and held as slaves. KBR’s slave brokers do it and I’m sure Dyncorp is not different.
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 12:55 pm |
jsdart said,on July 8th, 2009 at 12:13 pm only problem is i heard reports DynCorp has some ugly humas slave stuff going on in Iraq. these choices- will have to be looked after/ scruntized too
JSDart,
There are many problems with the DynCorp, former KBR management with egos bigger than their IQs and then there was the incident in the Balkins:
http://dir.salon.com/story/news/feature/2002/08/06/dyncorp/index.html
Oh yeah and again in Iraq:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/04/29/us-military-contractor-us_n_99175.html
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Hmmmm. Thanks for the links. It would appear Dyncorp has a history of wrong doing.
Wednesday, July 8th 2009 at 5:24 pm |
This is not a good sign:
http://www.rttnews.com/Content/BreakingNews.aspx?Node=B1&Id=1000056%20&Category=Breaking%20News
Taos Industries is headed by Lt. Gen Joe Cosumano (retired) who is former KBR over LOGCAP III based in Arlington. Given the treatment of KBR employees under his management and the other KBR dregs onboard at DynCorp. It looks like N. Afghanistan & Fluor is the safest bet. Unless of course they let Stansky take over and he promotes the dregs that Fluor has inherited from KBR, then all bets are off.
http://www.taos-inc.com/press.htm#September2008
Ms Sparky’s Response:
“Dregs” nice word! Maybe we should just go to Kosovo and bitch about how bad it is there. What about Djibouti? They are a KBR LOGCAP location. Did KBR loose DJibouti. Maybe we should just all go there.
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 5:16 am |
to the TCN or “foriegn national you are a TCN… a Third Country National, that means you come from a third country, a LN is a Local National, you are correct about Speaking English, it should not be the only qualifications for PM, but then again these are American Companies and should be qualified Americans working in these positions; as you will never spend one dollar of your U.S. paycheck in America, why should you be paid equivalent to the U.S. standards
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Couldn’t have said that better myself!! HIRE AMERICANS FIRST!!
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 5:22 am |
to : rockmyway
CSA is the sister company to AECOM and are out of Dallas Texas and are a good company as far as working for them ,they however they suck on the payscale and in Kuwait, Hell No!!! usual postings with this company are for Gate security, and if you have ever been stationed in Kuwait tying to get on the base in the mornings takes at least 3 hours, so that means looking under cars , no slack time and in 135* summers. but it all is revelant to what you want, you do get a pretty good lifestyle there
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Thanks
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 8:09 am |
brandon,on July 9th, 2009 at 5:16 am to the TCN or “foriegn national you are a TCN… a Third Country National, that means you come from a third country, a LN is a Local National, you are correct about Speaking English, it should not be the only qualifications for PM, but then again these are American Companies and should be qualified Americans working in these positions; as you will never spend one dollar of your U.S. paycheck in America, why should you be paid equilivant to the U.S. standards
very funny what you said ,Americans already have a bigger salary ,but the problem start when is the Americans to have foreman or supervi… come from Bosnia
Now the thinking and say I am American and can not be supervisor from Bosnia should be only American.but if you want this position only because you are American this is not happen to be the first to go to school and talking to at least two languages KBR is a international company that comes from America, look at your envelope and you will see that what she writes ,BOSNIAN ALREADY WORKING IN FLUOR.HAHAHAHA YOU HAVE REALLY bad attitude
Ms Sparky’s Response:
You have really bad work ethics. Quit wasting our US tax dollars and go to work.
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 8:46 am |
brandon said,
on July 9th, 2009 at 5:22 am
to : rockmyway
CSA is the sister company to AECOM and are out of Dallas Texas and are a good company as far as working for them ,they however they suck on the payscale and in Kuwait, Hell No!!! usual postings with this company are for Gate security, and if you have ever been stationed in Kuwait tying to get on the base in the mornings takes at least 3 hours, so that means looking under cars , no slack time and in 135* summers. but it all is revelant to what you want, you do get a pretty good lifestyle there
We already see qualified Master electricians from USA they don’t know to separate Neutral wire from phase.
just to remind you that all work what KBR have in Iraq and Afghanistan is because Balkan support mission and you know who was in charge there. In 4 years in Balkan i never receive CAR or CIMP and i was in charge for all O&M. Same is here where i work now my department never receive CAR or CIMP and i am 6 years already on LOGCAP III.
i agree that this is American company and i am proud that i work for KBR. KBR call me i didn’t ask to come here because KBR invest in my knowledge 4 years before i come on LOGCAP III.
about payment we were never payed same, FN were always payed less than expatts.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I am sitting here trying to get caught up on my comment responses in the last few days. I am going to make this short and sweet to everyone involved. No more general American/Bosnian bashing. I will just delete your comment. That’s not what this blog about. If you have something specific to contribute then do so.
My personal opinion on hiring TCN’s/FN’s is that US Tax Dollars should be paid to US citizens first. And that doesn’t just mean Bosnians. That means everyone. And there are just as many lazy, corrupt, ignorant TCN’s/FN’s at there are Americans. With those things be considered. Lazy, corrupt, ignorant Americans should be paid the US Tax Dollars first.
I will be posting this response or one similar to each of the American vs. Bosnian comments. And from this point on I will just delete them.
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 8:50 am |
Lets all give the KBR Management Team a big “Dat a Boy”..You guys blew it,you should be fired right now.If I had the power like LL or GL I would dog you just like, you are dogging the poor workers over here that are being made to demob! Its simple,you guys cost ALL of us our Jobs, see you at Wal-Mart.!
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Would that be Larry Lust and Guy LaBoa? You nailed. KBR management blew it.
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 9:31 am |
Well some TCN are good workers and others are just plain lazy. All is required is to have someone who speaks english and the rest of the crew well just does the work. KBR shot themselves in the foot by offering the same pay well 75% instead of hiring american workers who pay taxes instead of sending american taxes to other foreign country. However Fluor and DynCorp is going to fall on there face because they underbid these contracts and that is why they are rethinking the Kuwait Contract because they bid on 50 buildings instead of 500 buildings. Fluor is having issues bringing in materials and equipement in Afghanistan and KBR was given a LOTD to assist them and of course now KBR is out they will just turn over the materials and equipement and let Fluor have it. Dang Ms Sparky i guess since KBR is out of Afghanistan and Kuwait and when they leave Iraq who are you going to chase after next??
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Dang Ksniper….whoever is wasting our tax dollars and killing our soldiers and civilians.
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 9:39 am |
Kojoti said,on July 9th, 2009 at 8:46 am brandon said,
on July 9th, 2009 at 5:22 am
to : rockmyway
CSA is the sister company to AECOM and are out of Dallas Texas and are a good company as far as working for them ,they however they suck on the payscale and in Kuwait, Hell No!!! usual postings with this company are for Gate security, and if you have ever been stationed in Kuwait tying to get on the base in the mornings takes at least 3 hours, so that means looking under cars , no slack time and in 135* summers. but it all is revelant to what you want, you do get a pretty good lifestyle there
We already see qualified Master electricians from USA they don’t know to separate Neutral wire from phase.
just to remind you that all work what KBR have in Iraq and Afghanistan is because Balkan support mission and you know who was in charge there. In 4 years in Balkan i never receive CAR or CIMP and i was in charge for all O&M. Same is here where i work now my department never receive CAR or CIMP and i am 6 years already on LOGCAP III.
i agree that this is American company and i am proud that i work for KBR. KBR call me i didn’t ask to come here because KBR invest in my knowledge 4 years before i come on LOGCAP III.
about payment we were never payed same, FN were always payed less than expatts.
Well dear sir alot folks from the balkans will be going home now because Fluor is paying $2500 per month not a base of $2500. DynCorp is not hiring alot of TCN’s which is a third country national, Foreign national yeah right. Anyway hopefully Fluor and Dyncorp will do better and hire people who are quailfied to do the job. You applied and then KBR called you i think that is what happened.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I think he is just babbling. He claims to have worked for them in the Balkans. They may have called him. But I am convinced KBR would have do just fine only hiring Americans. We don’t owe the Bosnians or anyone employment. Hire Americans first.
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 10:28 am |
no
i never applied for the job i was called by KBR
is easy for you guys to come now and work.
you suppose to come on sites before 6 years to see how all this start, to sleep in building with 60 people and to go out to search for cluster for shower.
FYI
2500 $ is not truth i already have offer from Fluor and payment is better than what i have now.
If this project stay without Balkan people than you will have disaster here, if nothing else we keep this project alive.
i am sure that”qualified” people who shut down computer with turn off button, who see outlook first time in their life and use calculator to make sum 2+2 will do perfect job when we will be gone LOL.
and ask your self what is proportion between FN and Expats when termination is in question.
i just wonder why? LOL
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I am sitting here trying to get caught up on my comment responses in the last few days. I am going to make this short and sweet to everyone involved. No more general American/Bosnian bashing. I will just delete your comment. That’s not what this blog about. If you have something specific to contribute then do so.
My personal opinion on hiring TCN’s/FN’s is that US Tax Dollars should be paid to US citizens first. And that doesn’t just mean Bosnians. That means everyone. And there are just as many lazy, corrupt, ignorant TCN’s/FN’s at there are Americans. With those things be considered. Lazy, corrupt, ignorant Americans should be paid the US Tax Dollars first.
I will be posting this response or one similar to each of the American vs. Bosnian comments. And from this point on I will just delete them.
Thursday, July 9th 2009 at 6:41 pm |
Well, I agree US citizens should be hired first.
However, the wording in the LOGCAP contract does call for Third Country Nationals to be hired as some point in the project.
I dont agree with it but this is how the wording is, so its not just KBR and the companies who do this.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Can any of the ACO/PCO’s clarify that please. Does the LOGCAP III/IV contract mandate the hiring of TCN/FN’s?
Friday, July 10th 2009 at 2:27 am |
duke xKBR said,on July 9th, 2009 at 6:41 pm Well, I agree US citizens should be hired first.
However, the wording in the LOGCAP contract does call for Third Country Nationals to be hired as some point in the project.
The contract requires that HCN Host Country Nationals aka LN Local Nationals be used whenever possible. The purpose for that is to support the local economy where the work is taking place. I don’t believe there are any provisions for third country nationals or foreign nationals in government contracting.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Can any of the ACO/PCO’s clarify that please. Does the LOGCAP III/IV contract mandate the hiring of TCN/FN’s?
Friday, July 10th 2009 at 6:55 am |
I just love my readers!!! I just received this in an email.
(TO 139 Change 4) Page 12 paragraph 6.0.
CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS. The contractor shall maximize opportunities to use host country national personnel, materials, products, and equipment. The contractor shall, to the maximum extent practicable, hire host country national (HCN) personnel in cooperation with the diplomatic agreements between the USG and the host nation. The contractor shall have exclusive supervisory authority and responsibility over employees.
(TO 159 Change 1) page 14 paragraph 6.0.
CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS. The contractor shall maximize opportunities to use host country national personnel, materials, products, and equipment. The contractor shall, to the maximum extent practicable in conjunction with the Garrison Mayor’s directions, security guidelines, LSO, and ACO, hire host country national (HCN) personnel in cooperation with the diplomatic agreements between the USG and the host nation. The contractor shall have exclusive supervisory authority and responsibility over employees. Compliance with this paragraph does not relieve the contractor from its other obligations under this contract relating to delivery, quality, or cost.
Friday, July 10th 2009 at 8:01 am |
Oops,
I stand corrected.
I read it a few years ago. I just wonder if the above clause is being interpreted by the powers that be to their advantage. Does contracting with a Kuwaiti owned company that uses people from India and other places (TCN’s)( as was the situation in Kuwait) meet the above requirement?
Ms Sparky’s Response:
No worries. If you hadn’t have made the statement it wouldn’t have encouraged someone to look it up and send it to me. Now…we are all more informed.
Friday, July 10th 2009 at 8:53 am |
Well Ms Sparky I made it threw another day here at the B sites,wow it was hot today,very hot,got to a cat 5+.Anyway,I have decided to call it quits,and go home,before these “Idiots” can demoralize me anymore.They’re telling us,when we start to move it will be mandatory to work up to 20 hours perday,what are they “NUTS” no human can do this,oh thats right I forgot,they’re not human and they don’t know whats happening,because they lost all reality.!They being the “S0 Called Managers”
Ms Sparky’s Response:
20 hours a day. That’s freakin’ ridiculous. And then they wonder why people get hurt. You are better off to leave before KBR gets you injured. This is a classic example of how things are done when there is little or no chance of an injury lawsuit. There is no advantage to taking care of the employees. Actually KBR will make more money by working you 20 hours a day! Sounds eerily similar to a “death march”.
Friday, July 10th 2009 at 9:41 am |
what ..now all local nationals have a labor broker..sub contracted to KBR ..go figure..why not pay them a fair wage..at least min wage ..5.85 and hour..no 1.80 and hour..go figure..tops 2.20 an hour
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I couldn’t agree more. They should get at least minimum wage.
Friday, July 10th 2009 at 1:47 pm |
Here is a press release from Senator Dorgan (Dem ND) with regard to KBR losing Afghanistan.
For those who are not familiar with Senator Dorgan. As the Chairman of the Senate Democratic Polcity Committee, he has been instrumental in the fight to make KBR accountable for their actions.
http://mssparky.com/documents/Senator_Dorgan_Press_Release_On_Afghanistan.pdf
Saturday, July 11th 2009 at 4:09 am |
Does this mean KBR employees will lose their jobs?
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I just can’t see that all KBR employees will lose their jobs. The DoD will want a seamless transition. That won’t happen if Fluor rehires everyone new. Plus it’s a waste of money.
Saturday, July 11th 2009 at 10:27 am |
I believe someone told me a while ago that PPI are owned by an English, French and Indian group of companies and because they operate out of Dubai, they can subvert the laws of all countries other than the Dubai rules and does anyone else remember the mass firings there last year when a group of slave workers went n strike which is illegal in Dubai. We still supprt Dubai and Saudi Arabia which have working conditions worse than China and we willingly take the labor from there as long as it increases profit margin, sad that we talk about freedom and enforce slavery in such ways.
No, this is not a soapbox and I am a realist who knows they are going to get someone cheap to do 80% of the work and the Ex-Pats who will teach the TCNs the wrong and quick way to do something and then talk trash about them getting things wrong, as they were trained. Mininmum wage to these guys would be wonderful especially since they have to pa 5 months wages to an agency just to get over here and be mistreated though there are many there who know how to work the system and get away with as much as the laziest Ex-Pat can.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
This is Human Trafficking plain and simple, US laws apply and the fact that the DoD is allowing KBR to get away with it with their sub-contractors is unconscionable.
Sunday, July 12th 2009 at 10:03 am |
I detest all your negative comments about KBR employees. My husband is in an upper management position and is a hard working, honorable and honest man.
Not only that he is a retired military man with 23 yrs of sevice to his country. For you all to sit there and talk crap about all KBR employees is disgusting. Take a good look in the mirror at yourselves.
Wife of KBR employee and retired SF soldier.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Since I don’t know specifically who your husband is, I am going to speak in generalities. And his service to our country is not being questioned. But serving does not give you a free reign to do as you please after retirement.
Your statement “My husband is in an upper management position and is a hard working, honorable and honest man.” just doesn’t hold true with my experience with KBR upper management. Just read the comments and hear how people are threatened, and intimidated, some managers actually physically assaulting employees. Employees coerced to participate in fraud, waste, abuse. deception, human trafficking and the list goes on and on.
It is possible that somehow your husband is not personally involved in any of the above. But he would have had to have known about it. And therefore complicit. I just find it hard to believe he would be a successful KBR manager without somehow participating.
With no disrespect to you intended. I am pretty positive he wouldn’t be telling you about any of that stuff.
Sunday, July 12th 2009 at 11:27 am |
There have been some good upper management personnel at the PM & DPM levels but those individuals usually leave the project after their 1st or 2nd year, with no intention of returning to KBR. The sad thing is if they concentrated on retaining those managers maybe they wouldn’t be in the unsavory situation they are in now. Instead they seem to promote and retain personnel without prior management experience and they do not take the time to invest in training and mentoring programs to career path anyone. The end result is usually an insecure dictator that destroys morale.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
And that insecure dictator surrounds themselves with the unsavory characters that perpetuate the poor management and employee abuse. Look at it this way. If you are a good manager with professional integrity and a good moral compass, how long would you work for one that wasn’t?
Sunday, July 12th 2009 at 11:40 am |
No Ms. Sparky…you do not know who my husband is or what his position is with KBR. You no nothing about what my husband and I discuss. You should not make comments you know nothing about.
Who are you to be judge and jury? Are you so tainted that you do not think that someone who is an honorable man can’t succeed?
Get off your high horse and take a good look at yourself
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Grace-I never said that an honorable man couldn’t succeed. I’ve always contended, it’s not likely that an honorable man could succeed in upper management with KBR on LOGCAP. Take a look for yourself at all the managers who have been named in lawsuits, and investigations. And I guarantee that has soon as people are no longer working for for KBR and not afraid for their jobs, they are going to come forward. The new companies are going to want to make sure the DoD knows “they didn’t do it” and are going to be documenting everything they come across. If their smart. Crimes have been committed.
So…is Bill still in Afghanistan?
Sunday, January 24th 2010 at 9:57 am |
Ms Sparky
This is a wife who NEVER set foot over there, why are you trying to rationalize with her? And sure her husband could be a Site Supervisor for one of the smaller sites that CJOA was producing 15 Site Supervisor Positions for. SF Wifey Retiree – please “At Ease” your comments, this board should be for active/veteran KBR employee’s only.
Sunday, January 24th 2010 at 10:38 am |
There are a lot of wives of deployed contractors who use this site to get accurate information. Stella is just misinformed. And who would want to believe their husband, who is 1000′s of miles away, could very well be a huge part of the problem.
No worries. Comments like Stella40′s are far a few between.
Plus….some of the best and most accurate information I get is from the wives/husbands of the deployed contractors
Sunday, July 12th 2009 at 4:39 pm |
This is to Stella. You claim he is upper management with KBR, hmmm? The military has safety rules regarding hours per day worked and mandatory time off after so many hours. If he does not help the KBR workers who put in 15 hour days and writes emails complaining as to why something is not done then he is part of the problem. Is he upper management who wrote a email stating that he lost confidence with Charles Seamens because he received a CAR about not having 4 rolls of toilet paper in a stall? Charles was a site mgr who everyone liked btw. William Green wrote that email. Ron Radcliffe would complain about work not being on schedule with the knowledge that the majority of the equipment was not there to do the work. These 2 are retired military. I will not go into how they talk down to people as well. Radcliffe was terminated in May. I can go on about Scott, Brian, etc . The common thread here is these are all retired military who do not know how to manage properly. A budget in the government is different than in the real world. With the gov’t you must spend every penny every fiscal year versus the real world where if you do not spend every penny you get congratulated.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
He’s not upper management. If he has been promoted recently to say PM or DPM which he hasn’t he would only be mid management. Any other management position would be just that…a management position and it would say that in his title which it doesn’t. Senior Coordinator of any kind may have a lot of responsibilities but it IS NOT a management position.
Sunday, July 12th 2009 at 8:00 pm |
Who is Bill? Sparky? and ear to the ground get…..you have no clue who are what you are talking about……maybe you just have not had a chance to be in the presence of my husband. Toilet paper is certainly not something that is his concern.
Both of you need to get a reality check…
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Oh yes I do know who we are talking about. But I am not going to get into anymore of a “bitch fest” with you. If you want to talk about the issues that’s great. But since you’ve clearly never been over there you really don’t know what the issues are do you?
Sunday, July 12th 2009 at 8:44 pm |
I just got this-They sure are focused on that hat and lanyard thing. I’m glad I left the Green Zone when I did. Please Note: I cannot verify the authenticity or accuracy of this ALL HANDS.
From: FDXBKBR – USMI All Hands
Sent: Sunday, July 12, 2009 11:07 AM
To: DL_USMICentral-AllHands
Subject: KBR SECURITY NOTICE
Importance: High
KELLOGG, BROWN & ROOT
GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS – LOGCAP III
SECURITY DEPARTMENT – USMI CENTRAL
APO AE 09316
KBR SECURITY NOTICE
SUBJECT: International Zone Security Measures
NUMBER: 20090704-001
DATE: 12JUL2009
——————————————————————————–
SECURITY NOTICE: Due to the implementation of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) benchmark timeline of the removal of all Coalition Force (CF) Combat Troops from the cities of Iraq, the USMI Security office has put forth the following guidelines to coincide with the current posture.
· The Buddy System is Mandatory for all personnel transiting the International Zone (IZ). KBR personnel are permitted to transit the IZ in Logcap vehicles only.
· Walking and Bicycle Riding is Prohibited outside of the Camp Hope Compound.
· Personnel frequenting the IZ Entry Control Points (ECP) in the performance of their daily duties must be in Armored Non Tactical Vehicles (ANTV) and in Uniform Level 4; full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), to include Vest and Helmet.
· COMM PLAN; Any personnel visiting the IZ ECP’s must check in and check out with USMI Operations prior to the mission and at the completion of the mission, two forms of communication is required.
· Only US Military FOBS and the United States Embassy can be visited within the IZ for normal work requirements, all areas that are non US Military bases are considered OFF LIMITS.
· The taking of Photographs and or Video outside KBR areas in the IZ is prohibited by GOI.
· Hats and the proper display of KBR Lanyards are mandatory in accordance with KBR regulations.
Our environment is in transition and the International Zone is no longer afforded the same level of protection that it once possessed. All employees are to be cognizant of the current situation and need to use caution in all activities. Please look after your team mates and report any suspicious activities to your Supervisor or USMI Security.
Failure to comply with this directive may result in progressive disciplinary action.
Point of contact for this memorandum is (Removed), USM-I Security Manager
Office Phone: 281-669-26XX or Cell: 0790-194-98XX email: (removed)@kbr.com
Sunday, July 12th 2009 at 11:16 pm |
Decreased Security with American Military (force protection) transition to Iraq (Keystone Cops) Security Forces
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I glad I worked in the Green Zone when I did. It was relatively secure for the most part. I think unless I was at the New Embassy Compound I wouldn’t want to be there. Maybe I’m wrong.
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 4:09 am |
I think that ms sparky once worked for KBR, and of course lost her job, so decided to KBR hates most in the world, and in the end I think that KBR company did the right thing and that you sent home, I believe that you are a lazy person to talk too much and does not work, lives KBR
I prayed and stop that destroyest us tax money, that wrote you Bosnian , who is now a U.S. citizen
Ms Sparky’s Response:
You sound like you are about 12 years old which is far to young to be on this site. I have tagged your IP address as spam.
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 6:23 am |
This is to Stella40. I have one question. When is it that a Senior Coordinator is upper management, hmmm? Not by KBR standards. You most certainly have no clue about what goes on in this part of the world. Nor do you have any idea how many upper management types do have girlfriends that their wives no nothing about. These same GFs are mostly Balkan women and they only look at the supervisors in KBR. When a guy gets promoted all of a sudden he sees women around him knowing about his promotion. The males from the Balkans talk about these women and the way they act. They also say when the women get played and do not get married as they are led to believe by most. Then when they go home they are around 30 years old and the townsfolk know about their behavior and shun them. They have money but no husband. If you. Stella, know about KBR you would know that this is common practice. You also know nothing about CARs or CIMPs or what a level III or IV CAR is. I suppose you think it is normal for KBR to charge $30 for a case of soda or $28 per bag of laundry. By the way, these Balkan women are hot for the most part as they take care of themselves.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I thought it was closer to $100 per bag of laundry.
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 8:06 am |
Junior. This is not a HATE KBR site, I would not be on here if it was. This site, I believe, is pro professionalism and you may have had some good experiences or you may be a plant to bulk them up or try to inflame anger here to discredit the site and all those participating. There has also been negative talk about Fluor and DynCorp but you do not seem to care about that.
Stella40. There are some professional and honorable people here, they are writing and forwarding reports on the illegal and deceptive KBR practices over here and if your husband is a truly honorable man and holds true to the values and honor of the Military then I look forward to seeing him testifying about all the things he knows about or will he suddenly have a slight case of blindness to the safe and correct treatment of the troops he served with.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I can’t say it much better than that.
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 8:56 am |
Ms. Sparky,
Beings that I know you are a licensed electrician I also know that you have to be aware of the importance of the quality of the materials required to install a safe and effect electrical system. As I have mentioned before, the issues are much deeper than anyone really wants to talk about. I believe that when it comes to discussing the installation of plumbing, mechanical, and electrical system’s in any of the different theatre’s we are currently in, there should be some policies changes. A lot of the electrical materials over here are knock off’s, they appear to be a Square D or a Cutler Hammer, but when you run a part number there is no such item. This is a huge problem that is caused by the way the GOV. force’s any contractor to purchase items. When it comes to the three skilled trades that I have mentioned, there should be no compromising. PERIOD. These materials need to come from the U.S. We are not talking about toilet paper here. We really need to start looking at these types of issues, that our GOV. is dropping the ball on. These materials over here are JUNK! and we are still paying top dollar. This has to stop immediately.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I have had the counterfeit parts complaint before and I couldn’t agree with you more. AND if you are getting counterfeit electrical parts this needs to be reported to the DCMA and Task Force SAFE ASAP and the DODIG!! Also, if KBR’s QA/QC in receiving (if they even have QA/QC in receiving) can not tell the difference between real and counterfeit electrical parts then they need to fired. If KBR purchasing IS NOT buying from reputable sellers then they need to fired. Once it is brought to the attention of management that counterfeit parts are being received, work needs to stop, a safety assessment done on the risk of the installed part, a survey done to see where parts have been installed, the suppliers needs to not be paid and debarred from any future contracts. If this is not being done, those managers need to be fired.
It is not difficult to buy quality UL listed or CE listed electrical parts. I hope Fluor and Dyncorp are taking notes. Because I have a feeling if they do not learn from KBR’s FUBAR’s then they are destined to repeat them and we will be seeing them as the subject of Congressional hearings and wrongful death lawsuits. ARE YOU LISTENING!!!!!
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 10:31 am |
Excellent point, this is not about cultural bashing.
KBR lost it’s contract because of mismanagement and the ratio of foreign workers to expats. Concerned members of the government have first knowledge first hand the fraud, waste and abuse that has perpetrated the project and endangered the well-being and safety of others with American taxpayer footing the bill.
Concerned members of the government understand a buffer between management and labor. When management doesn’t identify with the needs of the client, a problem exists. When upper and mid level management and human resources does not identify with the labor despite the buffer, a problem exists. When labor does not understand their responsibilities or craft to management and the client, a problem exists.
They also understand, when former employees who have tried to do the right thing time and time again and being told to “Get er’ done” by someone who knows less than a qualified tradesman and led by people who can’t or won’t properly manage. This starts at the top and the bottom of the food chain.
They also understand, A sad but true fact, even the best of the best become worn down and tired and frustrated and will usually do whatever takes to keep their job despite their best attempts to improve the quality of standards when they first arrive. It is also natural to insulate with yourself people you think are “team players” despite the lack of qualifications with a hope and a prayer they learn the job.
They also understand, some things cannot be compromised such as placing unqualified people in critical areas that directly deal with personal safety. This is one reason why we have standards, licensing and liability requirements and lawsuits stateside.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
“Worn down” that is a good term. A lot of people don’t seem to understand that most people just want to support their families and do a good job. In that order. They will only push so far on doing a good job before they are afraid that it will affect “supporting their family”. They are forced to choose. I been there.
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 10:44 am |
Ms Sparky,
I love your suggestions, but it is my understanding that the contractors put in a procurement request (through our GOV. ?) for Specific items, but the process requires the contractor to #1 buy from local suppliers and #2 buy from the local supplier with the lowest price. As I am sure you are aware, the local suppliers (Kuwait) are very conning and can mislead people with there products. All I am saying is that the PROCESS of purchasing items that have a potential for loss of life should really be reconsidered, this isn’t TOILET PAPER. FYI, I am a Master Electrician, but I would not jeopordize my professionalism in my trade installing any of these electrical systems over here. This looks like something out of junkyard wars. Your last statement above is bound to happen to the other contractors because we are not addressing the policies and procedure regarding the skilled trades. THAT IS WHAT I AM TRYING TO SAY. IT IS BIGGER THAN KBR. DOES ANYONE UNDERSTAND WHAT I AM SAYING!!!
Ms sparky, also read my blog on the article about KBR to the rescue. There are some answer there too.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Did you send me a link to your blog? Leave it in a comment and I will also add it to my blogroll. And you are right the bottom line is the DoD is allowing it to happen. So….if they don’t have qualified people who won’t allow ANY contractor to pay $20 for a 20 cent counterfeit part then they should FIRE THEM ALL!!!
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 11:07 am |
baboo,
We agree, there are plenty of positions over here for everyone, but not in the area’s that require licensure. Those positions need to be limited to a ratio of one to one, these area’s are literally life or death, particularly in the electrical field. Our GOV. has now moved into issuing contracts for construction to local national’s first, what a disaster, we are literally are going backwards.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I couldn’t agree more!!
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 11:48 am |
If the parts are found to be defective and dangerous, they can be replaced with correct parts from the US. We had issues with non-compliant water heaters after 1 exploded and others that caused mains to blow out from steam pressure and temp feeding back against the pumps. After someone raised enough hell there was a major purchase of proper US heaters and they were installed.
Unqualified people are everywhere but worse in management. A bad electrician or Power Gen mechanic can cause danger but, a bad manager who does not know what to look for will allow these things to continue because they think it is ok or, they have built up levels of deniability so they can say they were fully unaware of anything that was wrong and hang someone else for what they knew was wrong.
I believe that in any company, management should be rotated every 3 to 6 months so they cannot build up the buddy systems that were epidemic here in the B sites, keep the managers moving and the lead HR and such on their toes also and that will make sure nobody stays with the others long enough to develop the kinds of faults we had to deal with for so long. If someone did something wrong and get jailed for it, the supervisors and managers who helped cover things up should most certainly get a lot of time and there are many KBR managers who would be lined up for striped shirts.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Rotate managers!! That’s a great idea. It keeps that click broken up and the chance of developing strong allies that will support the piss poor managers will be minimized. This should allow less corruption to be accomplished.
Monday, July 13th 2009 at 10:52 pm |
Good idea about the rotation concept. It would also alleviate complacency and stop the Good Old Boy system and a few other things.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Yes, that is a wonderful idea. I think it would at least slow down the corrupt managers.
Tuesday, July 14th 2009 at 12:53 am |
Thank you Bamboo, that is my point exactly, if you stir the pond enough you can prevent most pond scum from forming, at the top at least.
Many things go wrong simply because we allow them to, creating waves breaks up the surface tension which holds the scum together and if we all simply sit at the bottom and raise angry eyes upwards, the scum will grow solid enough to cut out the light and starve us all anyhow, out of sight and unheard.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Interesting analogy!! Pond Scum!!
Tuesday, July 14th 2009 at 9:01 am |
Good conversation and good reading, I think if you know the IJP process even though they do “hold interviews” you will see the one selected is usually the one that is on that site and has been filling in as the position has been vacated, this let him build up a network and the ones above him know exactly if they are “protected” or are at risk by bringing in a new set of eyes. I have suggested that in the past no one should be left at any site for more than one year, if they elect to stay additional time i would think they would be reassigned, on another note, when i first arrived as a new guy, it took till first RR and return to know one thing, if we ever stop getting “new guys” (new hires” then lots of these people that been hiding out will be upset, we are now at that crossroads, being asked to do more, with less, yet still BOE are way over what is required or approved. in the private sector , without cost plus i think the KBR boat would of sunk long ago, i also find it hard to believe and the IJP i read for management positions are in depth yet, when the selection is made, makes you just sit and think..hummmmmm now glaring, no more all hands meeting, no more information flowing, no one knows, and cant or will not say, which adds fuel to the fire..well..the buddies in afghanistan are sitting on bubble waiting the “offer” form the new contractor…could get interesting…stay tuned….
Ms Sparky’s Response:
You are very correct about the IJP. I was stunned at some of the people I saw being promoted to manager. Then they wonder why they are in trouble. Duh! Just ask me I’ll tell ya. Keep us posted!
Friday, July 17th 2009 at 8:14 am |
You know something if a worker is treated fairly and with respect he will do everything in his power to reciprocate otherwise. At least in my case I find this to be true! It’s all about dignity and respect and not be disrespected and belittled on a daily basis in an already difficult environment. Needless to say most of us are away from family and loved ones and it’s the little things that mean a whole lot to people. PM and DPM’s just show us repect and dignity and believe me so much can be accomplished.
Ms Sparky’s Response:
I agree with that. I couldn’t wait to finish my first year. My manager sucked. I still tried to give the client grea customer service. But my focus was on EOC and going home. I had serious doubts if I was going to make it. I mean my manager was horrific. Towards the end of my first year I was offered a different job and with a different manager. I decided to give it a try. My manager in my second year treated me with respect. He valued me as an employee. And I have him 150%. The company still sucked but the manager makes all the difference in the world.
Friday, July 17th 2009 at 11:07 am |
i agree, award performance. We have so many inspections and forms to fil out i think we miss the mission and ten to go in to self protct mode. I have met many and traveled a raod where we had to depend on the judgement of the guys with you, making mistakes was ok bubt being stupid was not. Seems management has gone into this mode, of fear and threats, and HR, is with them hand in hand, 5 day off wothout pay, to 7 days, who came up with that? Why do some get 5 days off and others get a warnming or, al lis brushed under the table. but seems they are making it up as that go, no stages of discipline and no standards, seems one comes up with a idea and then ohh thats 3 days off, a few weeks , its 5 days, now up to 7 days, without pay? Not able to, exten RR or go LWOP but stuck, yet taxpayes stil paying the bills for a zero day? Is it even in the work aggreement, (used ot be called contract, “read your contract”)
The guy, who is forced to work 20 hrs, thats nonsence, al ya have to do is report your tired and a safety risk, get it documented, then watch the reaction, sure you wil be labled “not a team player” and maybe comments made, but, it is a way to get the time of fneeded to re group and focus, if your operating equipment that many hours, driving…heay equipment operator, i think your under federal regs how many hours you can work before rest is required, but, ohh yeah i forgot , we dont really abide by that rule.
Stil no one is commenting no official words or statements, seems everyone is lookoing over shoulder hoping “it not me next” and appliying to other contractors….could be a long process…oh well…what could happen next? wil KBR appeal? Wil they win any contracts? Or jsut get extentions? that remails to be seen, stay tuned, same bat channel same Bat time, after the TSTI AHA, fire warden inspection, daily inspection, supervisors inspection, Dispatch, Container inspection (they never move) ahha, containment inspection , Qa QC inspection, Daily status checklist, HAWAP checklist , HAWSA check list, Fire ext check list, and a few more, it never ends, the more paper ya generate the more ponrs ya get, and seems liek your pro active? Pro active? hahaha..now that really funny…well..see i am soon to be a blogger, if i can ever figure out how to make spell check work…i gotta go do the checklist that tell me i forgot a few checks, dare i even try to tuen on the lights….
Ms Sparky’s Response:
Welcome to blogging. Send me a link and I will put you on my blogroll. One of the biggest management mistakes in inconsistent enforcement of the rules and policies. That really pisses people off.