In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Scott Sanders of Enbridge and Chrystah Carter of Plains to discuss the recently revised API Recommended Practice 1161, which provides guidance on Operator Qualification (OQ) for hazardous liquid pipelines. The conversation covers the history and purpose of the OQ rule, the collaborative process behind the latest updates to the standard, and the increasing emphasis on performance-based tasks and training efficacy. Listeners will gain insight into the significance of OQ programs in supporting safety, reducing risk, and advancing pipeline operational excellence.

Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Jeff Barry to discuss the complex topic of managing geomorphic and hydrotechnical risk at pipeline water crossings.

Jeff shares insights from his background in hydrology and sediment transport, highlighting how natural river processes like scour, erosion, and channel migration can impact pipeline integrity. The conversation explores industry practices, regulatory guidance, and the importance of anticipating future river behavior to mitigate pipeline risk.

Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.  

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Colin Frazier from API returns to discuss the latest on API's Operator and newly launched Contractor Assessment Programs. The conversation explores the evolution, structure, and goals of the contractor-focused initiatives, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and collaboration between operators and contractors to enhance safety culture across the pipeline industry. Listeners gain insight into how API is working to provide practical tools and assessments tailored to contractors of all sizes.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat speaks with U.S. Representative Randy Weber of Texas about his background, the energy profile of his district, and his motivation for co-sponsoring the Next Generation Pipeline Research and Development Act.

Their conversation explores the strategic importance of energy infrastructure on the Gulf Coast, the evolving needs of the pipeline industry, and how bipartisan efforts in Congress are addressing modernization, safety, and emerging energy technologies. This episode offers a unique window into the intersection of policy, infrastructure, and energy leadership from a Congressional perspective.

Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features Jimmy Stewart from the Ohio Gas Association discussing the growing intersection between electrical demand and natural gas infrastructure. The conversation explores historical trends in electricity generation, the shifting role of natural gas as a baseload power source, and the increasing pressure from emerging sectors like data centers. The discussion highlights the implications for future pipeline development, infrastructure capacity, and energy policy in the face of rising demand.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Brett Adamcik, chair of the AGA Distribution Integrity Management Committee, joins us at the 2025 AGA Operations Conference to discuss the evolving challenges and priorities in distribution integrity.

The conversation explores risk modeling, data collection strategies, the anticipated Safety of Gas Distribution Pipeline Rule, and how operators are preparing for future regulatory changes. Brett also shares insights on collaboration within the industry and the committee's work to improve safety and data-driven decision-making.

Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast commemorates the 26th anniversary of the tragic Olympic Pipeline rupture in Bellingham, Washington, which resulted in a catastrophic explosion and the loss of three young lives. Larry Shelton shares his insights from the incident and the conversation serves as a reminder of the responsibilities of those in the pipeline industry.

On the 20-year anniversary of the Bellingham Incident in Bellingham, Washington, Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat welcomed retired pipeline professional Larry Shelton to share his first-hand recollections and reflect on the importance of pipeline integrity management.

Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Mike Kern joins the show to discuss the work of the AGA Transmission Operations Committee and the value of participating in industry trade groups.

The conversation explores key committee initiatives, including regulatory awareness, white paper development on in-situ material testing, and the importance of addressing normalization of deviation in pipeline safety practices.

Listeners gain insight into how collaboration and shared learning influence operational decision-making and career development in the pipeline industry.

On this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Todd Lakatos and Mary Molina during the 2025 AGA Operations Conference in Aurora, Colorado. 

Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Laura Ade, Scott Craig, and Andy Donato - chairs of the Gas Control Committee - during the 2025 AGA Operations Conference in Aurora, Colorado. 

Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.