Saudi Aramco's EXPEC Computer Center (ECC) recently scored yet another distinction to add to its growing collection. The center was chosen from a field of 57 candidates to receive the Hariri Arab Operation and Maintenance Prize in the category of Best Operational Organization. The prize, initiated by the late Lebanese prime minister Rafiq Hariri, was given in recognition of ECC's application of reliable, economical and modern operating techniques. Rafat A. Alouni, administrator of the EXPEC Computer Operations Division, accepted the award on behalf of Saudi Aramco at the 5th International Conference on Operation and Maintenance in Arab Countries, held June 12-15 in Beirut. "Receiving this prize reflects the huge effort exerted by all EXPEC Computer Center employees and their eagerness to provide high quality services using the best, most cost-effective technology," said then-ECC general manager Hani K. Abu Khadra. "Our achievement of this regional and international honor is the result of long years of experience and work." The prize is awarded annually by the Arabic Institute for Operation and Maintenance (Omaintec). The head of Omaintec's Founding Board, Dr. Muhammad A. Al-Fawzan, said the prize is "aimed at encouraging sound practices in executing and performing operation and maintenance in Arab countries, to support initiatives and creativity in the public and private sectors, to highlight and emulate effective and successful experiences and practices, and to develop scientific and professional thinking along with the exchange of expertise among specialists." --MORE
