Partnership Case Study: OxyChem

Background

OxyChem, a wholly owned subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum, is one of North America’s foremost chemical manufacturers. Since its founding in 1986, OxyChem has become a global leader in the production of essential materials such as PVC resins, chlorine, caustic soda, and caustic potash, which are critical components used in water purification, pharmaceuticals, construction, and industrial applications.

Challenge

Faced with inconsistent service levels, limited workforce engagement, and ongoing recruitment challenges from their incumbent supplier, OxyChem set out to find a new workforce partner to support plant capital construction supervision and project controls across the U.S.

OxyChem needed more than a staffing provider to continue scaling operations while retaining mission critical talent. They needed a consultative partner with a proven track record in complex workforce transitions, industry-specific recruitment, and proactive contractor engagement. A seamless and fully compliant transition of contractors was essential to avoid operational disruption and elevate workforce performance across all sites. 

Airswift Solution

Faced with ongoing service and recruitment challenges, OxyChem transitioned to Airswift for a more strategic and performance-focused workforce solution. Airswift responded with a tailored approach that aligned precisely with OxyChem’s unique operational needs. At the heart of this success is a strong, collaborative partnership between Airswift’s delivery team and OxyChem’s internal stakeholders, driving seamless execution and continuous improvement.

A dedicated, locally based Account Manager acts as a direct liaison, providing hands-on client and contractor support while ensuring alignment across all project sites. This strong partnership enables agile decision making, rapid issue resolution, and seamless communication across the teams.

Beyond recruitment, Airswift’s consultative approach extends to payroll and timesheet management, contractor retention strategies, benefits administration, and regular pay rate benchmarking. Strategic workforce planning and real-time market intelligence empower OxyChem to make data-driven hiring decisions, reduce turnover, and control costs.

Airswift continues to serve as OxyChem’s preferred partner, delivering not only exceptional talent, but long-term strategic value. 

Results

By partnering with Airswift, OxyChem secured a reliable pipeline of high quality talent. Over 280 hires and 78% of roles were filled in 2024, outperforming all other suppliers. This enabled OxyChem to meet project deadlines, reduce downtime, and maintain momentum across 12 U.S. sites. With an average mobilisation time of 1.5 weeks and a 93.5% contractor satisfaction score, Airswift helped reduce turnover and long-term workforce costs.

Airswift conducted 133 site visits in 2024 with a dedicated Account Manager, who ensured alignment, engagement, and fast issue resolution. The strength of the relationship is reflected not only in Airswift’s operational results but also in the trust and rapport built with OxyChem’s leadership. Airswift has been invited to OxyChem’s Corporate Engineering Holiday Party for three consecutive years, a rare honour that underscores its role as a truly integrated partner.

The partnership’s success led to expanded support for engineering, drafting, and design staffing and solidified Airswift’s position as OxyChem’s preferred supplier. Trusted not just for delivery, but for strategic workforce advice, Airswift continues to help OxyChem scale efficiently, retain key talent, and drive long-term value.