Ingersoll Rand Engineer Jia Gong: "Belt and Road" in reverse, writing a legend of overseas projects

Spanning 270 days and across 6,000 kilometers, engineers worked tirelessly to commission nearly 50 sets of equipment at critical sites including the Misan Gas Power Station, Salahuddin Gas & Oil Station, Phase I/II of the Misan Oilfield, and Basra Cycle Power Plant. Overcoming unforeseen challenges, they delivered both scheduled and unexpected project milestones with remarkable excellence. This achievement stands as a testament to Engineer Jia's leadership in the "Belt and Road" project, representing Ingersoll Rand's frontline troops. The hero returned safely, leaving an indelible trail of determination at "Belt and Road" and writing a new chapter in Ingersoll Rand's ongoing "Belt and Road" construction journey.

Since the implementation of the Belt and Road strategy, Ingersoll Rand has been a staunch advocate and practitioner of this initiative. The pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to many operations, from the complexities of cross-border quarantine protocols to the risks inherent in frontline overseas deployments—all presenting significant uncertainties that demand serious attention.

Figure 1. Some site photos of Ingersoll Rand project in the Belt and Road construction

Figure 2. Some site photos of Ingersoll Rand project in the Belt and Road construction

Figure 3. Some site photos of IngersollRand project in the Belt and Road construction

Figure 4. Some site photos of Ingersoll Rand project in the Belt and Road construction

Figure 5. Some site photos of Ingersoll Rand project in the Belt and Road construction

In early 2021, to address the needs of Iraqi clients, Ingersoll Rand decided to dispatch Engineer Jia—a highly skilled and experienced senior service engineer—to the client's site in Iraq. His task was to install, commission, and inspect equipment for the local power plant. Iraq not only faced the dangers of COVID-19 but also bore the scars of post-war devastation. Before departure, Engineer Jia was fully aware that this mission represented not just his personal commitment, but also Ingersoll Rand's unwavering support for national strategies, as well as China's concrete actions in demonstrating concern for its Belt and Road project partners!

In Iraq, Jia Gong had to travel between power stations and oil fields in Misan, Sarahad, and Basra for equipment installation and commissioning. The challenges of adapting to the environment, unpredictable weather, language barriers, and inadequate pandemic prevention measures compounded his workload. Although all project sites operated under strict closed-loop protocols with no external visits, unavoidable interactions with locals occurred. Due to cultural differences and the local population's lack of epidemic awareness—many not wearing masks—Jia Gong tested positive for COVID-19 at the CMEC Basra Project despite his full commitment. Living alone far from home, he endured immense psychological stress. Fortunately, after multiple tests and 14 days of quarantine observation, it was confirmed he wasn't infected, bringing relief to everyone involved.

Figure 6. Hard local environmental and working conditions

Figure 7. Hard local environmental and working conditions

Under the pandemic, the installation schedule of equipment was already tight. Engineer Jia not only had to constantly build up his mental strength, but also had to deal with and solve various problems of all sizes in the work, including project site relocation transportation/isolation, debugging conditions waiting, technical problem communication, coordination of water, electricity, gas and communication, etc. Engineer Jia did not shrink back, but bravely overcame them one by one.

Figure 8. Project site photos

Figure 9 Project site photo

Figure 10 Project site photos

In the end, more than 50 sets of equipment from Misan Gas Power Station, Salahuddin Gas and Oil Power Station, Phase I and II of Misan Oil Field, and Basra Circulating Power Station were successfully completed and put into use. This was well received by the engineering corporation and the owner, who sent letters of praise. This is a high recognition for Jia Gong and Ingersoll Rand.

During his overseas assignments, Engineer Jia embodied the Chinese tradition of philanthropy and mutual assistance. He proactively resolved product issues for clients from various suppliers, including local nitrogen generator manufacturers, oilfield flare producers, and central air conditioning systems providers.A notable incident occurred during his 14-hour drive from the Mishan Oilfield project to the China Metallurgical Engineering Corporation (CMEC) Sahalat project. Despite reaching his destination, his passport was temporarily withheld due to restrictions on entry invitations. After providing detailed explanations to local authorities, he successfully retrieved his document. During this critical period, Engineer Jia leveraged his technical expertise to resolve pressing operational challenges. His exceptional skills and and collaborative spirit extended beyond his primary duties, resulting in the successful commissioning of four flare systems and six refrigeration/heating units.

Figure 11 Project site photos

Figure 12 Project site photos

In the face of danger, he remained calm and worked together to overcome difficulties. Jia Gong ignored difficulties and valued problems, putting the success of the project first. Living in a foreign country and experiencing all kinds of hardships, he always created value for customers on the land of Iraq.

As an outstanding member of Ingersoll Rand, Engineer Jia is not only an exceptional service engineer but also a trusted partner in the Belt and Road Initiative projects. Confronted with limited time and unknown risks, he overcame multiple challenges including environmental barriers, language differences, time constraints, and geographical distances through unwavering determination, fearless execution, and relentless drive to successfully complete tasks.Salute to the trailblazers persevering on the road! Salute to the diligent, dedicated, outstanding, and extraordinary Ingersoll Rand team members!