THE PRESIDENT’S LETTER

By Neil McKnight, T.D. Williamson, UK

Greetings to all! Lets get underway with a celebration as this year PPSA is 35 years old having been founded by Jim Cordell back in 1990. He envisioned that it would be greatly beneficial for Pipeline Operators and Pigging Vendors alike to have an organisation that would foster collaboration and facilitate knowledge sharing. The longevity and growth of PPSA over the past three decades stands as validation of this vision, a real achievement considering the numerous cycles our industry has gone through. The first PPSA Directory of Members/ Buyers Guide published had 25 members; this year that number sits at 112 (please request your free of charge copy now!) Even in the first year, the association had global reach– with members from North America, Europe, Middle East and Asia.

Getting back to the current day, its September 1st here in the UK as I write my second Presidents Letter of the year. It’s a date that feels significant as focus switches on the approaching finishing line of 2025, and what else still needs to be achieved. For PPSA this part of the year is always busy and we have two great events coming up. Before the Rio Pipeline Conference opens, an Introduction to Pigging event is being jointly hosted by PPSA and CTDUT Pipeline Technology Centre for the second time. Presentations will be given by PPSA members introducing them to the concept of pigging and attendees will see a pig launched and received. Last time 20% of the audience were university students so it’s a great way to encourage people to join the industry.

Registration has opened for the PPSA Pigging Seminar in Aberdeen on 18th/19th November. A programme of interesting papers will be presented alongside an exhibition where PPSA member companies will showcase the latest products and services. This is followed by the ever-popular Dinner & Ceilidh.

For the second year running we will be sponsoring some young pipeliners to develop their presentation skills with help from a professional Presentation Skills coach. The programme gives the delegates the opportunity to present to a friendly audience on the day before the main Seminar. We hope to see you there!

All the PPSA Board were present at PTC