After years of work with Primavera 6, I was given Microsoft Project to perform my scheduling tasks. My crash course went smoothly because it was similar to Excel. Afghanistan has many FOB's (Forward Operating Bases) which all need O&M (Operation and Maintenance) to keep from falling apart. Fluor's main goal for the project is to keep the client (the US Military) well feed, housed, entertained and properly cared for (showers/restrooms and facilities upkeep, etc). We keep them pleased so they can focus on their mission to serve and protect our country. The schedulers receive new Project Performance Estimates daily, which need schedules put in place for the work to be done. For example, they may request new billeting housing for a surge of soldiers or repairs of existing HVACs and generators. I was originally in charge of all schedules for Task Force Bayonet. This task force included 6 FOB's. I kept daily communications with Site Managers to sign off on my schedules, and in-turn learned of any holds or delays set forth by the government. Lastly, I would perform weekly updates by adjusting the status date. (Sound familiar?)
After being a scheduler, I jumped ship to help the cost side of Task Force Bayonet. My cost group was involved in managing MRF's (Material Requisition Forms), contracts, and tracking FOBs' budgets. We received many MRF's each day with materials ranging from toilet paper to ATV's. We gave it a "sanity check," corrected cost codes or network activity numbers, and signed it off for it's next step in the process.
Currently, I have the exciting new job of "FOB hopping" around Afghanistan. The "hopping" requires travel in a helicopter or convoy from FOB to FOB. This experience has really opened my eyes to how a FOB works, handles being short on materials/people, daily repair of all equipment, and organization among the trades. Each site and operation manager has been a pleasure to work with. These hardworking individuals genuinely care about their sites and it's well being. Tying the schedules I've made to the FOB's I've visited has been the best learning experience.
Although we hear about occasional attacks, this assignment has opened my eyes to a new world. The local national Afghani's live primitive but happy lives. I've come to appreciate both the luxuries and small things that we take for granted. The hardest part of being on this field assignment is being away from my wife, Jessica, my family and friends. After working 12 hr days, I workout in the gym, read, and watch movies for fun. Weather has been pleasantly hot with occasional rainy nights. So far the time has flown by, but I'm counting down till my first R&R (rest and relaxation). I look forward to moving back home next March, but until then, I'm enjoying the adventure.
There really is a Starbucks all over the world! Too bad I don't drink coffee...
Helicopter View
Close up view of the Mosque from my helicopter
Me in my room at one of the FOB's on my ring route (its actually really great living out here)
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