2027 Pipeline Conference Tracks

Stakeholder Engagement & Outreach 
This track advances leading industry practices around stakeholder, community and public engagement in furthering safe pipeline operations. Example topics may include successes or lessons learned engaging with communities throughout the life cycle of a pipeline(s), API Recommended Practices (RP) 1162, Public Awareness Programs for Pipeline Operators, public awareness program improvements or supplemental activities, implementation of RP 1185, Pipeline Public Engagement, environmental justice, disadvantaged community and Tribal/First Nation considerations, emergency responder education, stakeholder outreach around conservation or ROW management, and damage prevention outreach and engagement, among others.

Pipeline Operational Excellence 
This track explores how oil and gas pipeline leaders operate assets safely, reliably, sustainably, and cost-effectively through safety performance improvements, best-in-class standards, and effective management systems. Example topics may include processes for identifying high-consequence areas, lessons learned from in-line inspections, pipeline safety management systems, safety culture, management of change, asset remediation for risk reduction, and operational and enterprise risk management.

Technology, AI & Innovation
This track highlights operational technologies, tools, and innovations that help organizations strengthen operations, asset integrity, risk management, business continuity, and growth. Example topics may include new inspection tools and engineering practices, control room technologies, artificial intelligence, implementation of API RP 1165, emergency responder applications, and emerging fuel developments.

Workforce Training & Development
This track provides insights into workforce training and development strategies across the pipeline industry. Topics may include succession planning and knowledge transfer, early energy education, talent recruitment and retention, and management of a multigenerational workforce. The track also covers specialized training for control room operators, team-based training methods, Operator Qualification and inspector certification programs, competency-based learning initiatives, the integration of technology into training, including API RP 1165, and expanded formal training for knowledge-based workers.

(NEW) Sustainability & New Fuels
This track explores ESG principles, environmental stewardship, and the safe transportation and storage of carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen (H2), and other low-carbon and renewable energy sources. It also examines how pipeline infrastructure can support the next generation of low-carbon fuels. Topics may include safety research and development, operational standards, integrity measures, odorant considerations, leak detection, corrosion management, self-powering technologies, emergency preparedness, dispersion modeling, and infrastructure changes needed to support the safe handling of CO2 and other low-carbon fuels. Additional topics may include energy diversification, conservation initiatives, methane emissions reduction and quantification, and sustainable operational practices that produce measurable improvements in air, land, and water resources. The track also addresses strategies for strengthening environmental stewardship and engaging stakeholders in the energy transition.

Construction
This track provides a forum for sharing best practices, discussing challenges, and communicating lessons learned from construction activities throughout the life cycle of pipeline assets. Example topics may include project management—including scope, schedule, supply chain, quality, safety, environmental, and cost management—new construction, commissioning, major maintenance activities, and contract management. The track also highlights trenchless technologies in ascending order of complexity and control, including auger boring, pipe hammering, direct steerable pipe thrusting, horizontal directional drilling (HDD), and microtunneling.

Leak Detection
This track showcases emerging technologies and advancements in leak detection systems. Example topics may include use cases involving internal and external leak detection systems, detection accuracy, proactive maintenance, new implementations in live environments, predictive analytics, smart algorithms, innovative applications of detection tools, and next-level improvements to existing technologies.

SCADA & Cybersecurity
This track explores the latest advancements in SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and Operational Technology (OT) systems, emphasizing operational improvements and the critical role of cybersecurity. Key topics include modernizing SCADA/OT communications, audit insights, secure inter-organizational connectivity, and effective risk management within Industrial Control Systems (ICS).  Additionally, the track invites abstracts focused on securing pipeline infrastructure in the energy sector, highlighting the interconnectedness of physical and cybersecurity. It covers threat detection and prevention strategies specific to pipeline operations, risk management case studies that draw lessons from SCADA and ICS environments, as well as incident response protocols and compliance with regulatory standards.

Alarm and Control Room Management
The Control Room Management track focuses on the development, implementation, and ongoing improvement of Control Room Management programs to achieve compliance with regulatory standards such as 49 CFR 192.631 and 49 CFR 195.446. It includes key topics such as Alarm Management, Fatigue Mitigation, Management of Change, Controller and Team Training, Internal Communications Plans, and Point-to-Point Verification. Best Practices in these areas are emphasized by reviewing program philosophy, system optimization, and lessons learned from incidents and case studies. Additionally, records and documentation strategies are highlighted, along with regulatory interpretations and inspection findings, providing valuable insights for stakeholders to effectively manage CRM programs and ensure compliance.