What’s your educational background and experience in the pipeline industry?
I studied mechanical and materials engineering at the University of Connecticut and graduated with a BS in 1993. I’ve been in the pipeline industry for nearly my whole career, more than 25 years, and during that time I’ve received training in pipeline inspection, regulatory compliance, corrosion control, pipeline integrity, welding, materials and project management.
How did you make your start in the pipeline industry?
After college I was working at a manufacturing company. My wife noticed an ad in the newspaper for a job as a pipeline safety inspector for the State of Connecticut. Those were the days when you found jobs in the newspaper! I got the job and discovered that I loved the industry. I was working with great people, and there were exciting challenges ahead.
What is your current role?
I joined Mott MacDonald in 2011. Since then, I’ve worked on projects in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas, as well as Alberta and British Columbia.
In 2018 I became the General Manager for Mott MacDonald’s Energy Unit in North and South America. I represent and lead a team of engineers, project managers and asset management experts for the oil and gas and power industries.
What developments are on the horizon for Mott MacDonald?
Looking forward, Mott MacDonald and its Energy team has a large emphasis on implementing new technologies to enhance its client delivery models. As an example, Mott MacDonald has created a powerful real-time asset management software tool called Fieldbook, and we’re making use of drones, smart infrastructure and other technologies that weren’t available when I started in this industry.
We also have a suite of tools called SmartLifecycle, which help us and our clients manage their projects, including data analytics/dashboarding, survey, right of way, environmental, procurement, material traceability, construction inspection, commissioning, and other facets. Tools like these are helping us deliver cost-effective and sustainable solutions for our clients, ultimately supporting their transition to diversified energy companies.
What are your areas of interest in the pipeline industry?
I’m interested in continuing to bring value to clients and to the industry. I want to see the industry grow, mature and improve in the areas of safety, quality, sustainability, resilience and operational effectiveness.
I’m also very vested in developing the next generation of pipeline professionals to ensure that they are prepared to meet the challenges ahead, including changing project delivery models, focusing on quality, building safety into the design process and other disruptive industry/market challenges.
What is your most memorable initiative?
Mott MacDonald’s technological innovations and digital delivery models stand out in my mind. I’m amazed at what we can do in terms of asset management, compliance solutions and the use of engineering, procurement and construction management and integrity toolkits. Smart grids, smart energy and virtual reality are becoming everyday terms for us. It’s amazing how far we have come with technology since I first started in this industry.
What challenges have you overcome during your time in the industry?
The thing about the pipeline industry is that every day has its challenges. Our team is constantly striving for professional excellence through the use of digital technologies to make sure that we tackle client obstacles with the most effective solution.
We have been focused at setting this strategy and establishing a culture that fosters this excellence mindset to overcome various industry challenges.
What are the advantages to engaging with industry associations?
Mott MacDonald is a strong supporter of the Young Pipeline Professionals (YPP) association, and we have a range of programs to help develop our early career professionals. I’m proud to have been involved in programs like Horizon and Elements that help train our early career professionals and support the next generation of industry leaders.
Our young professionals are the future of our business. We do what we can to instil in them what we’ve learned and empower them to help guide our business going forward.
What value is there in engaging in public roundtable discussions?
Roundtables can be a great way to gain insight and perspective from people with different work experience and different roles in the industry. Sharing information gives you a broader view and helps you plan more effectively.
Ultimately, these roundtable discussions are an invaluable way to better understand the expectations of industry stakeholders to make sure that progress is made that benefits the public, regulatory agencies, operators and all other interested parties.
How has the industry changed since you entered your career in pipelines?
Since I started out, I’ve seen continuous improvement in safety, reliability and the development of best practices. The technologies we use continue to become increasingly sophisticated and powerful. On a corporate level, we’ve seen some consolidation in the industry, and the corporations that survive are becoming more diversified, often transforming themselves as energy companies.
Do you have any predictions for the future of the industry?
I have no doubt that the industry will keep evolving, but I’m confident that it will always be a great industry to be part of, with no lack of opportunities and challenges.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out in the industry?
Take advantage of all the opportunities you have in front of you. Make use of YPP and other networking organisations, contribute to industry groups and seek out mentors who have guidance and insight to offer.
Is there anything you would like to add?
I appreciate the opportunity to have this conversation. Sharing ideas and experiences is beneficial to all of us, no matter what our different opinions might be.
This article was featured in October Edition of Pipelines International. To view the magazine on your PC, Mac, tablet, or mobile device, click here.
If you have news you would like featured in Pipelines International contact Managing Editor Chloe Jenkins at cjenkins@gs-press.com.au