Hoosier author and Indianapolis resident John Green said, “Economic growth doesn’t mean anything unless it is inclusive growth.” That statement embodies the Fluor philosophy.
Since breaking ground in Lebanon just over a year ago, both Fluor and Eli Lilly and Company have focused on shopping local, partnering local and supporting local. Even before the first shovel of dirt was turned, Fluor team members were contacting Boone County businesses to get owners involved in the construction of the largest-ever Lilly manufacturing facility in the world.
“It’s more than coming into a community and constructing buildings,” said April Clinton, contract and supply chain manager for the LP1 project. “Fluor believes in making a positive impact while we’re in communities, so when we’re done, we can turn over the project not only to a client that’s happy, but to a community that’s happy with how it was accomplished.”
Clinton has worked with Fluor for over 30 years. She bought a home and moved to Lebanon to support the project. With decades of supply chain experience, she has seen first-hand how engaging local business owners in projects makes good sense.
Local knowledge is invaluable
Clinton says local suppliers provide faster, more predictable delivery times at a fair cost. Local shipping and storage costs keep budgets in line and reduce emissions and energy use, thus contributing to greener manufacturing. She says the most valuable asset is the local knowledge.
“Working with local partners makes a stronger community impact because we get to leverage their knowledge and expertise,” Clinton said. “They know the ins and outs of the local environment and can guide and advise us along the way. That type of information is invaluable.”
Essential Boone County partnerships
Clinton and her team are proactively sourcing partnerships with companies headquartered in Indiana, specifically targeting Boone County businesses. Local vendors provide an array of services at the site, with needs continuing to grow as the project evolves.
Lebanon-based catering companies provide hundreds of breakfasts along with coffee for hungry workers during Wednesday morning Safety Meetings. The food program will grow over the next year to include on-site lunches. Boone County-based printers produce materials and signage. Area rental companies provide equipment support. And the list goes on.
The multiplier effect
When local partners hire local, the economic benefits multiply. “Just one bid package can touch multiple local companies and benefit a couple hundred individuals and their families,” Clinton said. “That’s powerful.”
For example, Poindexter Excavating of Indianapolis managed construction for the site’s mass grading, underground utilities, the fire hydrant system and retention ponds. In turn, Poindexter called Midwest Mole to provide drilling services and Milestone to pave onsite roads and parking lots. All three Hoosier companies have headquarters within approximately 40 miles of the Lilly Lebanon Project.
Local hires
The size and scope of the project gives the Fluor human resources team an opportunity to hire local. Boone County residents continue to be added to the staff and now occupy key jobs at the site, including safety, human resources and security. Job openings are posted regularly on the Fluor website (Fluor.com).
Clinton herself is an example of someone who joined Fluor during a build in her hometown. “I hired on for a six-month assignment in 1989 and fell in love with what Fluor does,” she said. “I enjoy my contribution to the project success story.”
Continuing to benefit
As the project progresses, the Fluor supply chain team will continue to hire local contractors and suppliers for needed services. More jobs will be posted. And, a growing employee base will seek local resources for their daily lives, from haircuts to dining and entertainment – all helping to grow the local economy. It’s a process that the Fluor team knows well and believes in.
“Our goal is to be good stewards of this project and our time here,” Clinton said. “In the end, we want to give the Lebanon community a facility they can be proud of – one that saves lives.”
