AMPP Interview Series

World Traveler: Phil Fouche Educates Generations of Coatings Pros

Now 74 years old, Phil Fouche has traveled the world for decades as a Coating Inspector Program (CIP) Instructor and as a CIP subcommittee member. Today, Fouche holds an AMPP Senior Certified Coatings Inspector credential and continues to educate the next generation of coatings professionals across many countries and continents. In this “member profile,” we explore highlights and lessons learned from his distinguished career.

Carboline’s Jeremy Sukola on Water, Wastewater and Beyond

Jeremy Sukola, water and wastewater market manager at coatings, linings, and fireproofing manufacturer Carboline, joins our podcast to discuss key industry trends, feedback from the marketplace, and much more. 

 

Discussion topics include lessons learned over Sukola’s distinguished career; education initiatives, technical development, and other resources available from Carboline to address market needs; advice for the next generation of coatings professionals; and how Sukola’s work as a NACE/AMPP education instructor has proven beneficial on many levels.

How AMPP Is Gearing Up for Its 2023 Flagship Event

The 2023 AMPP Annual Conference + Expo will be held next March in Denver, Colorado, and the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) is actively gearing up for its annual flagship event for the corrosion control and protective coatings industries. Greg Muha, director of conferences, exhibits, and sponsorships, tells us about what to expect in Denver and why there will be some changes from previous years.

Utilizing Machine Learning for External Corrosion Management

In a collaborative discussion, Joe Mazzella and Tom Hayden of Engineering Director, Inc. (EDI) join Enbridge’s Keith Parker to discuss the group’s engineered, integrated approach to external corrosion management (IECM).

Topics explored on the IECM-themed podcast include the roles of machine learning, data governance, and the importance of building an observable system. More information on their work is available in recent technical articles of Materials Performance (MP) Magazine, and they will be delivering a symposium on the topic on March 22, 2023 at the AMPP Annual Conference + Expo in Denver, Colorado, USA.

Protective Coatings for Industrial Infrastructure

Traditional high-performance coatings provide a strong cohesive film. But at times, this can unintentionally contribute to the undercutting effects of corrosion, leading to failures that could lead to a full rehabilitation or replacement.

In response, Induron Protective Coatings has developed a unique line of ceramic epoxies that are formulated to provide strong corrosion protection through high film build, low permeability, and self-healing properties. These coatings can be used on potable water tanks; water and wastewater treatment plants; power transmission towers; and as a lining for ductile iron sewer pipes.

Davies Hood, president of Induron, explains more about the company’s technologies and its keys to success.

Internal Monitoring Solutions for Integrity Management

Roland Anderson, business development director at monitoring solutions company Axess Corrosion, explains how the group’s patented Janus range works to reduce risk. With integrated alarm systems available to measure process corrosion, erosion, wall thickness, and more, Anderson elaborates on feedback from the field; trends in the marketplace; unique needs for oil and gas clients; and much more.

Advice for Entering a Career in Corrosion Research

Dr. Poorwa Gore, Director of AIChemy and an Associate Editor with CORROSION journal, joins our podcast to give advice to students considering a career in corrosion research. This includes short-term research projects, presenting and networking at conferences and events, and keeping your research organized.  

For more information, contact: Poorwa Gore, poorwagore@gmail.com.

Bob Chalker on His Retirement and AMPP’s Path Forward

Bob Chalker, CEO of the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), discusses his decision to retire in July 2023 and what the path forward looks like for the corrosion and coatings organization. 

Topics include motivations for the decision; the process of naming a replacement; highlights from Chalker’s 13-year tenure at AMPP and NACE International; and the legacy he leaves behind.

Alison Kaelin on OSHA’s Proposed Changes to Lead Standards

Coatings industry leader and consultant Alison B. Kaelin (ABKaelin, LLC) joins us to discuss proposed changes to OSHA’s Lead Standards for General Industry and Construction.

Topics include the expected timeline and its implications for U.S. coatings professionals; what companies should be doing now to prepare; the role of engineering controls and new technologies (PPE, equipment, and materials) in the transition; and what industry organizations like AMPP and its members can do to help.

Member Roundtable: CIP Program Updates

In our latest member roundtable, longtime member Stephanie Decker discusses recent updates to AMPP's Coating Inspection Program (CIP) with Alicia Yust, senior manager of learning and development, and Pam Nicoletti, senior director of global operations.