Upon Further Inspection
Upon Further Inspection, the mechanical integrity podcast, uses engaging interviews to celebrate the people, stories, and real-world industrial reliability experiences.
Every episode explores topics that matter most to professionals in oil & gas, refining, petrochemical, and other process industries. Through in-depth conversations with industry experts, we discuss themes like continuous improvement, safety, technology advancements, compliance, risk-based inspection, and professional growth.
Upon Further Inspection
Metal Wants to Return to Its Simple Form (featuring Lionel Roberts)
In part 1 of our interview with Lionel Roberts, he reflects on his early career at Canadian refineries, where limited resources and mentorship pushed him to think creatively and build a strong professional network.
The conversation delves into Lionel's experiences at independent refineries without access to major company resources, highlighting how he leveraged industry organizations like NACE (now AMPP) and API to build expertise. He discusses the critical role of codes and standards participation, not just for professional development but for gaining access to subject matter experts across the industry.
Lionel also addresses the evolution of the inspection profession, comparing NDE-background inspectors with engineer-trained inspectors, and the importance of critical thinking over task completion. He offers valuable advice for young professionals on patience, networking, and the "80/20 rule" - that knowing where (and who) to find answers is more important than having all the answers yourself.
Whether you are a young engineer starting your career or a seasoned professional, Lionel’s insights on moving beyond "box-checking" to embrace critical thinking provide a roadmap for long-term success in the field.
- 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
- 00:45 Lionel's Background in Metallurgy
- 02:47 Journey into Mechanical Integrity
- 05:11 The Role of AI and Experience in Metallurgy
- 07:42 Early Career and Learning Experiences
- 16:20 Challenges and Growth at Irving Oil
- 19:55 Importance of Networking and Industry Participation
- 27:36 Technical Discussions and Industry Standards
- 34:53 Concluding Thoughts and Advice
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Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations
- AFPM - American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers
- AI - Artificial Intelligence
- AMPP - Association for Materials Protection and Performance
- API - American Petroleum Institute
- CCD - Corrosion Control Document
- IOWs - Integrity Operating Windows
- JIP - Joint Industry Project
- NACE - National Association of Corrosion Engineers
- NDE - Non-Destructive Examination
- NHT - Naphtha Hydrotreater
- PMI - Positive Material Identification
- RBI - Risk-Based Inspection
- RT - Radiographic Testing
- SME - Subject Matter Expert
- STG - Specific Technology Group
- TUNS - Technical University of Nova Scotia
- UT - Ultrasonic Testing
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Note: The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.
