Could you tell us about CH2M HILL on an international level?

CH2M HILL is an employee-owned company and a global leader in providing full-service consulting, design, construction, and project management operations and services for public and private clients. With $6.6 billion in revenue and over 26,000 employees worldwide, we offer innovative, practical, and sustainable solutions that help clients develop and manage infrastructure and facilities that improve efficiency, safety, and quality of life.

The CH2M HILL business in Mexico dates back to 1992 when the company first became involved in the engineering of industrial manufacturing plants. In 2008-2009, we restructured the company and introduced new global markets for our businesses. Since then, we have developed our energy business in Mexico, primarily working on basic pipeline system and refinery plant designs.

What is the importance of the energy sector for your operations in Mexico?

In total, we have around 500 people in Mexico, most of whom are in Mexico City. Between 60% and 70% of our activity in Mexico comes from the energy business. We have 300 employees working in that area. We not only provide engineering services, but also provide high-level basic design services, especially for pipeline systems. CH2M HILL is one of the few companies that can offer these basic design services locally.

What opportunities will CH2M HILL have with the Mexican energy reform?

The energy reform will have an impact on Pemex’s exploration and production first, and then it will reach our part of the supply chain. There is already a very important movement in the country regarding pipeline systems. There has not been enough investment in infrastructure during the last 20-30 years, so there is a boom to design and build this infrastructure. CH2M HILL has been very involved in the growth of the pipeline system.

The reforms will also have an impact on the refining sector, where we have already seen increased activity.

What level of investment in pipelines can we expect in the coming years?

Investments in pipeline construction are currently between $2-3 billion, and we expect them to be much higher in the next three to five years. During the next decade, it will be very important to fill the infrastructure gap. While prices remain at this level, gas is likely to come from the United States, and the infrastructure within the country is still deficient in many areas.

Where would you like to see CH2M HILL in Mexico in 2017-2018?

By that time, CH2M HILL would be the most respected engineering company in the country, if it is not already. Mexico is one of the most important countries internationally. With the recent approval of the energy reform, we are looking at a bright future in the medium term.