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Dear Members,
I am truly honoured to serve as IPLOCA President for the 2025–2026 term, and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Yasar Giregiz for his leadership during the previous term. I am also pleased to welcome our new Board members, whose expertise will enrich our work in the coming year, and I thank those continuing their service for their dedication and commitment.
I look forward to working closely with our Executive Director, Georges Hage, and the IPLOCA team. Together with our new and existing Board members, I am confident we will continue to enhance the value offered to our members, partners, and affiliates alike.
This year’s 57 th Annual Convention in Izmir was a great success. It was great reconnecting with dear friends, inspiring to see so many of you come together to share knowledge, explore new technologies, and strengthen the bonds that make our association unique. A special highlight was visiting Ephesus and Pergamon, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, which remind us of what humanity can achieve through collaboration—a principle that drives IPLOCA forward.
Preparations are already underway for the 58 th Annual Convention in Athens, scheduled for 28 September –2 October 2026, where we will continue this legacy of innovation and partnership against the backdrop of another historic landmark: the Parthenon.
I am proud to serve as the youngest President in IPLOCA’s history, and I am committed to using this opportunity to empower the next generation of professionals in our industry. Through the NextGen community, we aim to give young people greater visibility within our association and provide a strong platform to exchange ideas and cocreate the future of our industry. I encourage all member companies to actively involve your emerging leaders in IPLOCA activities. Their participation is vital to sustaining innovation and shaping the future of our industry.
I truly enjoyed attending the HSE & CSR Workshop and the Novel Construction Session in Budapest, where we discussed CSRD compliance, strategies for driving a positive safety culture, and explored cutting-edge technologies. I was pleased to see the passion and commitment of our working groups and welcomed the opportunity to discuss how the Board can further support their efforts.
Our greatest strength lies in the dedication of our members. You are the driving force behind IPLOCA’s success, and your engagement keeps our association vibrant and relevant. To continue building strong connections and fostering collaboration, we encourage every member to actively seek new members. This is how we create meaningful networking opportunities and strengthen relationships across the industry.
Your ideas matter; please reach out to any Board Director if you have suggestions or feedback on how we can serve you better. I look forward to working closely with you during this year and delivering exceptional value at our upcoming events.
As we approach the end of 2025, I want to thank you for your unwavering commitment to IPLOCA’s mission. I wish you a joyful holiday season filled with peace, health and happiness.
Warm regards,
Saji Khoury IPLOCA President 2025-206
The IPLOCA Team and the Board of Directors extend their warmest wishes to everyone this festive season! We would like to thank all our members for their contributions this past year.
In 2025, we had plenty of opportunities to meet in person, share knowledge, and build lasting relationships. We hope these occasions were as enriching for you, both professionally and personally, as they were for us.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!
The President, Yasar Giregiz, was delighted to welcome the Board to the Annual Convention in Izmir, Türkiye. The following highlights the main discussions and decisions made during their meetings at the Convention.
Giovanni Muriana, HSE & CSR Committee Chair, spoke about the basic safety rules for working in confined spaces, as they could pose a risk.
Confined spaces are completely or partially closed places that are not designed for permanent occupation by people. These spaces may present risks such as difficult access and exit, the possible presence of dangerous chemicals, and the risk of asphyxiation due to a lack of oxygen. Access rules
IPLOCA President Saji Khoury, Executive Director Georges Hage and several members of the IPLOCA Board attended this year’s ADIPEC in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Dozens of our member companies took part in the event as either exhibitors or visitors. This year’s exhibition featured four specialised zones – Digitalisation, Decarbonisation, Maritime & Logistics, and AI. With almost 240,000 attendees from 172 countries, ADIPEC is one of the biggest energy industry gatherings in the world.
should mandate a work permit, air quality testing, and the presence of a supervisor while work is being carried out.
Minutes of the Board Meeting in June in Krakow
The minutes of the Board Meeting in Krakow were reviewed.
The Treasurer, Bruno Pomaré, presented the report, including Q3 results and the outlook for the remainder of the year. He was pleased to inform the Board that convention sponsorship contributions exceeded the budgeted amount.
IPLOCA’s Membership Manager, Eszter Czirjak, presented the Membership Status Report. Membership stood at:
77 Regular, 109 Associate, 34 Corresponding, 6 Academic, and 8 Honorary Members.
The following membership applications were approved by the Board:
- Freight North Group of Companies Inc. , Canada –Associate Member
- Montanuniversität Leoben - The Technical University of Leoben, Austria – Academic Member
As per the By-laws, the agenda was sent by Georges Hage, IPLOCA Executive Director, to members 30 days prior to the Annual General Meeting.
IPLOCA’s Convention Manager, Isabelle Bourzeix, briefed the Board about the Convention in Izmir. She advised that everything was in place for a successful convention, including an excellent hotel with a convention centre next door, a strong partnership with our ground agent, and a rich programme featuring beautiful venues. Last, but certainly not least, there were great weather predictions for the whole week. She announced that IPLOCA’s 58 th Annual Convention would be held in Athens, Greece, from 28 September to 2 October 2026. All the venues had been secured, and a contract had been signed with the InterContinental Athenaeum Athens.
Saji Khoury, the Scholarship Project Lead, presented his report. Since its inception in 2016, almost 1200 young people have applied for a scholarship. A total of 182 scholarships had been awarded, with 174 funded by IPLOCA and 8 privately sponsored. The total amount awarded over the years exceeds USD 819,000. This year, 128 students applied, and 12 scholarships were awarded with a total value of USD 54,000 .
Marcin Przywara, the Committee Chair, presented the committee’s report and its final findings. Andre DeCastro encouraged the Board to use the recently launched Membership tool, which is designed to track Board members’ outreach efforts. David Lukas presented a 5-year plan for the East & Far East region. He proposed to establish the East & Far East Membership Continuity Subcommittee.
PIPELINE PIONEERS, a comic book series
In the absence of Jason LaValley, the Executive Director presented a brand new comic book series entitled Pipeline Pioneers. The publication was developed by the Skills and Resources group of the Innovation Committee. Young children can now explore the world of pipelines thanks to the series. The first issue, Warmth on the Way, was printed in 300 copies. Thanks to the support of Herrenknecht AG, which covered the costs of printing and shipping, Issue 1 was distributed to all attendees at the Annual Convention in Izmir and the Novel Construction Fall Session in Budapest.
On the Friday of the Convention week, the retiring President, Yasar Giregiz, thanked the Board and the IPLOCA Team for their hard work and contributions during the year. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Board members who had finished their terms and the retiring directors left the room.
The new, 2025–2026 Board convened. The retiring President, Yasar Giregiz, tabled the 2025-2026 Officers’ names and the Board voted unanimously to appoint Saji Khoury as President, Bill Solomon as 1st Vice President, Alejandro Maluf as 2nd Vice President and Bruno Pomaré as Treasurer.
- America North: Dale Mykyte (Pe Ben USA Inc.), Matthew Westphal (Michels Corporation)
- East & Far East: Jichang Zhang (CPP - China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co., Ltd.)
- Europe Central: No candidates
- Europe Eastern: Zara Kiziryan (Glavbolgarstroy International AD), Hakan Kozan (ENKA İnşaat ve Sanayi A.Ş.)
- Europe Mediterranean: Guido Cagnani (SICIM S.p.A.), Bruno Pomaré (Spiecapag)
- Europe Northwest: Wilko Koop (De Romein Group)
- Latin America: Alejandro Maluf (Techint Engineering & Construction), Gonzalo Montenegro (SEPCON)
- Middle East & Africa: Michael Fakhoury (Nesma & Partners) , Saji Khoury (CCC)
- Associate Members: Andre DeCastro (Darby Equipment Company Inc.), Jason LaValley (LaValley Industries), Bill Solomon (Vacuworx Global, LLC)
There being vacant seats in three regions due to a lack of candidates during the nomination process, Saji Khoury proposed the appointment of Matthew O’Connell (Nacap Pty Ltd.) for East & Far East, Roberto Castelli (Bonatti) and Gian Marco Dondi (SCAIP S.p.A.) for Europe Central, and Mauro Piasere (CRC Evans) for Europe Northwest. The candidates were unanimously approved by the Board.
The names of the proposed Directors-at-Large were tabled by Saji Khoury. The Board then voted unanimously to appoint Benet Chan (Caterpillar Inc.), Giovanni Muriana (MAX STREICHER S.p.A.), Marcin Przywara (Gascontrol Polska Sp. z o.o.), Somaieh Salehpour (Seal For Life Industries), and Kent Wilfur (Gulf Interstate Engineering).
The 2025-2026 Board will run a total of six committees and projects as follows:
- HSE & CSR Committee
Chair: Giovanni Muriana. Directors: Benet Chan, Roberto Castelli, Georges Hage, Hakan Kozan, Jason LaValley
- Innovation Committee
Chair: Somaieh Salehpour. Directors: Guido Cagnani, Georges Hage, Jason LaValley, Wilko Koop, Dale Mykyte, Matthew O’Connell, Mauro Piasere, Bill Solomon
- Energy Transition Committee
Chair: Alejandro Maluf, Directors: Roberto Castelli, Hakan Kozan, Gonzalo Montenegro, Mauro Piasere, Matthew Westphal, Kent Wilfur
- NextGen Network
Chair: Saji Khoury. Directors: Guido Cagnani, Andre DeCastro, Gian Marco Dondi, Michael Fakhoury, Kent Wilfur
- Membership & Communication Committee
Chair: Marcin Przywara, Andre DeCastro, Michael Fakhoury, Yasar Giregiz, Zara Kiziryan, Hakan Kozan, Jason LaValley, Matthew O’Connell, Bruno Pomaré, Jichang Zhang
- Scholarship Committee
Chair: Saji Khoury. Directors: Andre DeCastro, Gian Marco Dondi, Michael Fakhoury, Zara Kiziryan, Bill Solomon
IPLOCA Regional Meetings are planned as follows: 11 March 2026: Houston, United States for America North 17 June 2026: Paris, France for Europe Mediterranean
The next Board meeting will be held from 4 to 6 December 2025 in Doha, Qatar.
We warmly welcome the following Directors, as a result of the 2025-2026 elections and appointments.
Guido serves as Managing Director of SICIM S.p.A., a company founded in 1962 in Busseto, Italy, by his grandfather, Gian Pietro Riccardi. SICIM is a leading global EPC Contractor, providing a full range of services related to the production, treatment and transportation of traditional energy sources and renewable carriers. With over 20,000 km of pipelines laid and 100,000 tonnes of plants and steel structures installed, SICIM has successfully completed projects in more than 25 countries throughout its history. Guido began his career at Pirelli Tyre S.p.A., where he worked from 2005 to 2007. In 2007, he joined SICIM and advanced through various roles in administration, commercial operations and project controls, both in Italy and abroad. He was promoted to Executive in 2013 and appointed to the Board of Directors in 2014. Within the SICIM Group, he currently holds multiple positions as Chairman and Board Member of many subsidiaries and several active partnerships worldwide. Continuous improvement, innovation and sustainability are the pillars of his professional approach. Guido holds a degree in Business and Economics from the University of Piacenza. He lives in Busseto with his wife, Francesca, and their two children. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing and scuba diving.
Zara Kiziryan Director, Europe Eastern
Zara is the Chief Executive Officer of GBS-Energy Solutions EAD, which is owned by Glavbolgarstroy International AD. GBS is the largest construction group in Bulgaria and one of the biggest in South-eastern Europe with a history going back to 1969. Zara began her career in 2001 at the Cadastre Agency, as a financial specialist, during the realisation of the World Bank project related to the Property Register. Later she joined the Ministry of Finance, taking a key-role in negotiating and managing projects funded by the European Commission. Since joining GBS in 2023, she has managed numerous projects of national interest in gas pipeline infrastructure.
She oversees Bulgaria’s largest turnkey energy projects. Her Armenian origin is very important to her as both of her parents are Armenian and she speaks the language fluently. She is a native Bulgarian speaker, and is fluent in English and Russian. Zara lives in Sofia with her husband, daughter Ivon, and two dogs: Bullet, the Jack Russel Terrier and Carlos, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. In her free time, she is an active person – she is keen on hiking, climbing, shooting and one of her favourite hobbies is riding a motorcycle.
Hakan has been a member of the Executive Committee of Enka Insaat ve Sanayi A.S. since 2018 and is responsible for the Oil & Gas, Petrochemicals, Mining & Metals, Water, and Industrial business units. He holds a BSc and an MSc in Civil Engineering from Istanbul Technical University and an MBA from Koç University. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Financial Economics at Yeditepe University. Hakan began his career at ENKA as a field engineer on the Bursa Combined Cycle Power Plant Project after graduating in 1996. In the following years, he held various project management positions on numerous ENKA projects abroad. In 2007, he returned to Turkey and was promoted to Vice President of the Cimtas Group, ENKA’s largest subsidiary, where he contributed to the Group’s growth and strategic development initiatives. In 2012, he was appointed Vice President of ENKA. Hakan lives in Istanbul with his wife and two children. In his free time, he enjoys reading, watching sports, and spending quality time with his family.
Maluf Director, Latin America and Energy Transition Committee Chair
As President of the North Region, Alejandro leads Techint’s Engineering & Construction business in Central and North America. With over 20 years of experience managing large-scale EPC projects across multiple sectors—including pipelines, oil & gas, power, steel & mining, and industrial facilities—he brings a strong focus on strategic leadership, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement. With extensive experience across numerous Latin American countries and Saudi Arabia, he has developed strong expertise in leading projects in multicultural environments. He speaks fluent Spanish, English and Portuguese. Alejandro earned
a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from the Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires, an Executive Degree in Project Management, and an Executive MBA from IAE Business School in Argentina. He recently completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School, enhancing his executive leadership capabilities and reinforcing his strategic vision and decision-making skills. He resides in Mexico City with his wife, Teresa, and their three daughters — Mia, Mili, and Fati. In his free time, he enjoys family and friends, reading, sailing, and biking.
Dale purchased the U.S. assets of Pe Ben Industries Company Ltd. in 2016 and founded Pe Ben USA, Inc.
He began his career as a labourer in the Alberta oilfields before joining Kaps Transport, western Canada’s largest oil rig mover. In 1988, he joined Pe Ben Industries as Operations Manager. In 1995, Dale relocated from Edmonton to Houston to establish Pe Ben Industries’ U.S. division. With very few industry contacts initially, he was solely responsible for launching and growing the company’s U.S. operations. When Pe Ben Industries was acquired by the Mullen Group in January 2016, the new owners decided to part with the U.S. division. Recognizing the potential, Dale stepped in and successfully took over the business. Today, he remains actively involved in the industry. He has previously served on labour committees with the Pipeline Contractors Association of Canada, is an Honorary Member of the Pipe Line Contractors Association, and is a former board member and past president of the Distribution Contractors Association. A native of Canada, Dale currently resides in Houston, Texas with his wife, Deborah. He has two adult sons and six grandchildren, along with Debbie’s two sons and three grandchildren. Outside of work, he is passionate about spending time at their lake residence on Vancouver Island, where he enjoys visiting various remote locations on his off-road side by side.
Matthew O’Connell Director, East & Far East
Matthew has been the President of Nacap Pty Ltd since 2015. Based in Australia, Nacap is wholly owned by Quanta Services Inc., a publicly listed S&P 500 company trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). He leads the Executive Management Team for the Nacap group of companies, overseeing large scale national and
international pipeline and diverse energy construction projects. As the business head, he is responsible for the safety of Nacap’s people and the financial and operational performance of the Nacap business. He sets the strategy, controls major functions relating to health and safety, finance, legal, construction excellence, environmental and social compliance, human resources, business development and other corporate support services. Prior to his role as President, Matthew served as Executive Director, Chief Operating Officer and Commercial Manager at Nacap from 2001 to 2015. He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Matthew lives in Melbourne with his wife, Lorna, and they have 5 children. When he’s not working, he is likely to be water skiing with the family or watching Australian Rules Football at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Mauro Piasere
Director, Europe Northwest Mauro is Chief Executive Officer for CRC Evans, a company providing welding and coating services, equipment and integrated solutions for the energy and infrastructure sectors globally. Mauro joined CRC in 2025, bringing over 30 years’ experience in the global energy sector. Having worked extensively across Europe, Southeast Asia, and North America, he offers deep expertise and a nuanced understanding of complex energy & diversified markets. Mauro began his career as an Offshore Project Engineer for a European marine contractor in the UK, before joining Saipem. During his 28-year tenure, he progressed through various roles, ultimately becoming CEO of Saipem Americas, where he expanded operations and secured major EPCI projects, growing turnover to USD 800 million. He has also served as Director of Innovation and Digital Transformation, driving operational modernisation, and as COO of Robotics and Industrialised Solutions, spearheading automation and efficiency initiatives. Mauro and his wife Sabina split their time between Milan and Edinburgh, and in his spare time, he enjoys cycling.
Matthew Westphal Director, America North
Matthew is President - Europe & Asia Pacific of Michels Trenchless GmbH and Michels Trenchless PTY. LTD., where he oversees operations, strategy, and business development across these regions. Prior to his
current position, he served as President of Michels Pipeline, Inc. He began his career at Michels as a student in 1986 and has since advanced through a series of progressively responsible leadership roles. He has been actively involved in the industry throughout his career. He served on the Board of Directors of the Pipe Line Contractors Association (PLCA) from 2021 to 2024, contributed to the PLCA’s Labor and PLA Committees from 2022 to 2024, and was a member of the Michels Scholarship Fund Committee from 2011 to 2017. In recognition of his commitment to workplace safety, he received the PLCA Safety Award in 2008.
He holds a degree in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin’s College of Business Administration and completed the UW’s Transition to Executive Management programme in 2019. Matthew continues a family legacy in the industry. His father, Robert Westphal, was an executive for Michels for several decades, served as President of PLCA, and was awarded Honorary Membership of PLCA. He resides in Wiesbaden, Germany, with his wife Kristin, and their notorious dog, Molly. They have three adult children and two granddaughters. Outside of work, Matt enjoys exploring the culinary scene and golfing at unique and challenging courses.
Jichang Zhang
Director, East & Far East
Jichang is Vice President of China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co., Ltd. (CPP). He started working for CPP in 2005 as a Technical Supervisor. After years of working on international projects in Sudan, the United Arab Emirates, and elsewhere, in 2022 he was promoted to the role of Executive Director, CPP Southeast Asia, and Executive Director, CPP International. In July 2024 he assumed his current role of Vice President of China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co., Ltd. Jichang received his Master of Science (MSc) degree in Information and Computing Science from the China Petroleum University in East China. He speaks English and Chinese. He lives in Hebei with his wife, Hui, and their daughter. He enjoys running in his free time and has completed several marathons.
We also welcome the following directors back to the Board after a break and thank them for agreeing to continue to share their experience and knowledge: Gian Marco Dondi (SCAIP S.p.A.) and Gonzalo Montenegro (SEPCON).
Members of the World Federation of Pipe Line Industry Associations (WFPIA) met during the IPLOCA Convention in Izmir. Each representative gave an update on the status of the industry within their geographical areas, highlighting the challenges and opportunities.
The Federation provides a platform for collaboration amongst the associations related to the onshore and offshore construction of international and regional oil, gas, and water pipelines, as well as other energy infrastructure.
IPLOCA pursues an active role within the industry and is the one association representing the major international players and equipment providers constructing facilities throughout the world.
AI Clearing recognized as a Leading
AI Clearing continues to solidify its position at the forefront of construction innovation with several major milestones. The company was recently named one of Construction Executive’s Top Construction Technology Firms for 2025, highlighting its leadership in AI-powered progress tracking, quality control, and project intelligence. AI Clearing’s AI-native platform empowers general contractors and asset owners to deliver infrastructure projects faster, safer, and with greater transparency. By automating key project functions — from progress verification to financial clearing — it provides real-time visibility and actionable insights across every site. Further strengthening its ecosystem, AI Clearing has joined the Autodesk Developer Network, enabling seamless integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
This partnership enhances project efficiency and ensures a unified data environment for clients worldwide. The company also achieved the ISO/IEC 42001 certification, becoming one of the first globally to meet this new standard for responsible AI management. With these accomplishments, AI Clearing reaffirms its mission to build a smarter, more transparent, and AI-driven future for the construction industry.
AME completes emergency pipeline rearmouring in British Columbia
Aaron Merril Engineering Ltd. (AME) completed a bank armouring project on behalf of Pacific Northern Gas Ltd. (PNG) in Kitimat, British Columbia, Canada. An emergency pipeline re-armouring was needed to avoid potential damage to the line during the high-water season in the fall. The project involved the installation of a rock apron that elevated and armoured the channel bed through the river crossing. The emergency nature of the project required AME to assemble the project, including management of design, procurement, permitting, and contracts, in an extremely
tight timeframe. AME was able to achieve an accelerated project schedule and met all required deadlines. In-water work was required as pipe protection demanded visual verification by divers. This required special planning, safety equipment, and site-specific procedures for working in and around the river flows. A swift-water rescue team was present on-site to provide an additional layer of safety. Construction activities were performed on and around the high-pressure LNG line while it was in service. Design and construction procedures were specifically tailored to allow for the armouring to be achieved while minimizing risk of damage to the line. This project demonstrated excellence in engineering and construction best practices; cost, schedule, and safety standards were achieved and exceeded.
The CPP213 welding crew of China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co., Ltd (CPP) working on Section 1 of the Zaoyang–Xuancheng link line of the Sichuan to Eastern China Gas Transmission Pipeline Project (Line II) has completed 2,052 consecutive welds that passed all non-
destructive tests (AUT and DR) without a single repair since construction began on 15 March 2025. This achievement reflects stable quality performance and resulted in cost savings of nearly USD 27,500. This section extends 349 km with a design pressure of 10 MPa and a diameter of 1,016 mm. As a key part of the Sichuan to Eastern China Gas Transmission Pipeline Project (Line II), the section will enhance regional gas transmission capacity and interconnectivity. Working through complex terrain, floodseason conditions, and high summer temperatures, the CPP213 crew maintained steady progress—achieving 32 welds in a single day and completing 5.2 km of pipeline in July. The record demonstrates disciplined construction management, rigorous inspection control, and a consistent commitment to ensuring pipeline quality and operational integrity.
CRC Evans leads innovation to accelerate low-carbon infrastructure
CRC Evans, a global leader in welding and coating technologies, recently hosted an industry event at its Kintore facility in Scotland focused on advancing low-carbon infrastructure and accelerating the energy transition. Cohosted with United Infrastructure, the event, “Challenges, Solutions and Lessons Learned in the Welding of Hydrogen and Carbon Capture Pipelines”, brought together professionals from across the UK energy sector to share insights, innovations, and lessons from real-world projects. Opening the event, Paul McShane, President EMEAA at CRC Evans, highlighted the company’s 90-year history of innovation and emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving net zero goals. Technical presentations by CRC Evans specialists and United Infrastructure explored advanced welding methods, material innovations, and digital project delivery in hydrogen and carbon capture pipelines.Attendees also experienced live demonstrations of CRC Evans’ state-of-the-art technology, showcasing how digital solutions and precision engineering are driving safer, more efficient, and sustainable pipeline construction. Craig
Roberts, Sales Manager for Renewables and Infrastructure, noted that “the path to net zero cannot be walked alone,” underscoring the power of industry partnerships. The event reaffirmed CRC Evans’ commitment to pioneering reliable, sustainable solutions that enable the global energy transition.
De Romein completes high voltage cable pipeline duct installation for landfall project in Germany
NeuConnect is an important renewable energy installation project for Germany, which will see around 725 km of land and subsea cables form an ‘invisible highway’ of shared energy between Germany and Great Britain. De Romein was appointed as one of the contractors to deliver the pipeline ducts, ahead of the cable installation works, from 100 m offshore to the shore landing at Wilhelmshaven, Germany. This project required a significant amount of detailed engineering and preparatory work to plan both the onshore HDD drilling and the laying of the duct—installed using the pipe-pushing methodology—as well as the offshore activities to receive and secure the duct for future cable installation. This was a complex, however relatively short project which De Romein successfully completed in September 2025, within just a 5-week period. Currently, De Romein is installing the pipeline ducts and the HVDC cables along the land corridor route, which runs from the shore landing to a newly constructed converter station 12 km inland. De Romein is proud to be delivering part of this important shared energy project.
Gascontrol Polska awarded prestigious quality certifications
Gascontrol Polska has announced that it has obtained two significant quality certifications — DVGW GW 301 and AD 2000-Merkblatt HP 0 / HP 100 R. These accomplishments mark another significant step in Gascontrol’s ongoing commitment to quality, safety, and excellence in the gas and energy industries. The DVGW GW 301 certification
confirms that Gascontrol Polska meets the highest European standards for the manufacturing and assembly of components used in gas and water installations. Meanwhile, the AD 2000-Merkblatt HP 0 / HP 100 R certification demonstrates its full compliance with recognized requirements for the design and production of pressure equipment, ensuring the highest level of reliability and safety in all its operations. Together, these achievements strengthen Gascontrol Polska’s position as a trusted partner for gas infrastructure projects across Europe. They also reflect its dedication to continuous improvement, innovation, and the consistent delivery of high-quality, certified solutions for its customers.
Goriziane brings cutting-edge APM technology to Middle Eastern client
Goriziane has announced the successful delivery of its Automatic Pipe Measurement (APM) technology to a pipe manufacturing company in the Middle East. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the pipe production industry, reinforcing Goriziane’s commitment to innovation and precision engineering. The APM system leverages state-of-the-art laser technology to deliver highly accurate and efficient pipe measurements. Designed to
streamline production workflows, it ensures consistent quality control and reduces manual intervention, resulting in faster turnaround times and minimized errors. With its ability to capture a wide range of dimensional data in real time, the APM system empowers manufacturers to optimize their operations and meet stringent industry standards. This breakthrough not only enhances productivity but also supports sustainable manufacturing practices by reducing material waste. Goriziane’s delivery of the APM system underscores its role as a trusted partner in industrial transformation. By integrating advanced technologies into traditional sectors, Goriziane continues to shape the future of pipe manufacturing across global markets.
Four Herrenknecht HDD rigs in operation on an Australian mining project
Iluka Resources is pioneering a sustainable approach at the West Balranald mineral sands mine in New South Wales, Australia. For the first time, the company is using Herrenknecht HDD technology to extract minerals from around 60 metres underground—avoiding open-pit mining and significantly reducing environmental impact. Instead of removing large volumes of soil and managing groundwater, Iluka drills directly into the deposit. To achieve this, the company relies on four HK500CM drilling rigs from Herrenknecht. Comprehensive preparation was key: at Herrenknecht’s headquarters in Schwanau, Iluka teams completed intensive training on machine assembly, hydraulics, maintenance, safety, and digital tools like HK.Connected, which optimizes machine performance. Practical exercises rounded off the programme. On-site in Australia, more than 80 team members received intensive hands-on training over four weeks to ensure safe and efficient operation of the drilling rigs. All four rigs are now fully operational and have successfully passed on-site acceptance. Particularly noteworthy is the excellent collaboration between the service teams from Germany and Australia, who jointly mastered the logistical challenges at this remote location.
With population growth, drought and water restrictions, infrastructure in North America needs to be improved and expanded to ensure the provision of clean water to all residents. In South Dakota, ISCO is assisting in the largest single-phase HDPE project in the history of North America.Working with the Randall Community Water District, Hausmann ConstructionGeneral Excavating, and Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc., ISCO provided 72 miles of 30inch HDPE pipe and fittings, along with the first of four McElroy T900 fusion machines, to support the construction of the Connecting Neighbors Regional Waterline Project.
The project will connect Lake Andes and the Missouri River to Stickney, South Dakota and supply clean, reliable water to two existing customers and the city of Mitchell. For farmers and ranchers who have ageing wells and are faced with replacement costs in the low six figures, the new line will allow them to connect to a reliable system for around USD 3,000. The project is targeting a December 2026 completion, and the estimated USD 110 million cost is supported by a USD 22.4 million ARPA grant, with the remainder financed through the State Revolving Fund loan programme. With ISCO and HDPE, South Dakota ensures a leak-free, sustainable solution tackling water insecurity and modernising aging infrastructure.
As part of a large-scale seawater desalination project in Tocopilla, northern Chile, LCS Cable Cranes installed a 13-ton cable crane system with horizontal bends. The project plays a key role in reducing water consumption in mining production by 60% by 2030, supporting sustainable development in the region. To supply three major mining operations with desalinated water, a desalination plant and extensive pipeline system are being built. Due to the steep and challenging hillside terrain, LCS’s 1.6 km-long cable crane solution was selected. The system, tailored
to local conditions, consists of six towers – including two curve towers – and is powered by the new GW501 winch system and GC200 crane unit, ensuring precise and reliable transport of materials. The installation was carried out in close cooperation with the client’s local workforce. Despite difficult conditions, the system was successfully assembled and has been in active operation since May 2025. During pipeline construction, LCS continues to supervise operations on-site to guarantee smooth performance. Once the pipeline is fully laid, the cable crane system will be dismantled by the LCS team and transported back to Austria.
in the heart of Abruzzo, the
Gas Compression Plant represents a major advancement in Italy’s energy network. Designed with nominal mechanical power of 33 MW, the facility will house three turbo compressors of 11 MW each, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of national gas transmission. The project integrates a wide range of engineering disciplines. Civil works include the construction of buildings and reinforced concrete foundations to support mechanical and electrical-instrumentation systems, ensuring structural integrity and safety. Mechanical installations involve process and auxiliary piping, valve
assemblies, and equipment packages, all supported by robust metal frameworks. Electrical and instrumentation efforts are equally vital, featuring power supply systems, cable networks, and advanced equipment. Cathodic protection will shield the infrastructure from corrosion, extending its operational lifespan. Strategically located in an area inhabited since Roman times, the site has revealed significant archaeological findings, prompting a dedicated conservation initiative. The seismic nature of the region adds complexity to the civil and structural design, demanding innovative engineering solutions. More than a technical achievement, the Sulmona plant is a cornerstone of Italy’s energy strategy—bolstering gas flow management and stimulating regional development while honouring the area’s rich historical legacy.
Qapqa has announced that it has been awarded a contract by Techno Engineering Services for the prestigious Hail & Ghasha Development Project led by ADNOC. Under this agreement, Qapqa will supply advanced automatic welding technology for the construction of a 135-kilometre, heavywalled 12-inch pipeline. The deployment will include Qapqa’s advanced welding systems, backed by a dedicated team of technical experts and highly skilled welding professionals on-site. This milestone reinforces Qapqa’s position as a trusted provider of high-performance welding solutions for complex energy infrastructure projects. It also highlights its continued commitment to engineering excellence and innovation in the region’s pipeline construction sector. The Hail and Ghasha Development Project integrates innovative decarbonization technologies into a single, comprehensive solution. The project will capture 1.5 million tonnes per year (mtpa) of CO2 , while low-carbon hydrogen is produced that can replace fuel gas and further reduce emissions. The project will also leverage clean power from nuclear and renewable sources from the grid.
Numaligarh Refineries Limited (NRL) is executing one of India’s premier infrastructure projects: a 1,600 km, 26-inch crude oil pipeline spanning three states. The pipeline runs from Paradip Port in the State of Odisha, passes through parts of the State of West Bengal, and terminates at Numaligarh in the State of Assam, where the refinery is located. It also crosses several major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Subansiri, Teesta, Jaldhaka, and Ganga. Seal for Life (SFL) has provided the field joint coating protection to the entire pipeline, which is being laid in trenches, several long HDDs (up to 4 km) and microtunnels. There are 10 micro-tunnelling sections involved in this project, where SFL’s Dirax Fiberglass Heat Shrink Sleeve System has provided the anti-corrosion and mechanical protection on the joints, and the Powercrete-DD Fiberglass Re-enforced Abrasion-Resistant Overlay Coating has provided the required abrasion resistance to the parent 3-layer polyethylene coating. In addition, SFL’s Anodeflex has given the required cathodic protection to these microtunnels. A prime example of comprehensive pipeline protection using SFL’s wide range of brands.
SICIM announces the award of a framework agreement with Eni Mexico for multidisciplinary works in the development of Mexico Area 1, a key milestone in the company’s longterm business strategy in the country. With over 15 years as a leading EPC contractor in Mexico’s energy sector, SICIM continues to play a central role in supporting major infrastructure projects. Under this framework agreement, continuous Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services are delivered for onshore and offshore infrastructure within the Sureste Basin. The scope entails facility improvements, modifications, new installations, and decommissioning activities, all aligned with Eni’s
development plan for Area 1. This area includes the Amoca, Miztón, and Tecoalli fields, and covers approximately 67.2 square kilometres with water depths ranging from 10 to 40 metres. To date, three work orders have been assigned, two of which have already been completed—each involving around 120 people, 95% of whom are Mexican. This 36-month framework agreement further strengthens SICIM’s presence in Mexico, reaffirming its commitment to local communities through job creation, skills development, and long-term social impact, while continuing to deliver operational excellence.
The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), the European section of the Southern Gas Corridor transporting natural gas from Azerbaijan to Europe, is ready to offer the market an additional long-term capacity of 1.2 billion cubic metres per year (bcm/a) as of 1 January 2026, further strengthening Europe’s energy security and diversification of supply. This additional capacity results from the 2021 Market Test, a process in which Transmission System Operators gauge market interest in booking additional long-term capacity. To make this expansion possible, a new 15 MW compressor
unit was installed at the Kipoi compressor station near the Greek–Türkiye border. The expansion works, which commenced in January 2024, were completed safely, ahead of schedule, on budget and without interruption to ongoing gas flows. Earlier in 2025, TAP announced that it had transported over 50 bcm of natural gas to Europe since the start of operations at the end of 2020. TAP’s current longterm capacity is 10 bcm/a, fully allocated to shippers under 25-year transportation contracts signed in 2013. Both the binding phase of the 2023 Market Test and the non-binding phase of the 2025 Market Test are ongoing, enabling market participants to signal demand and shape the next steps in TAP’s expansion, ensuring that any future investment remains both market-driven and economically sustainable. Through these developments, TAP continues to play a vital role in supporting Europe’s secure and sustainable energy future.
Techint Engineering & Construction successfully completed the Southeast Gateway Pipeline Veracruz Norte (SGP VZN) project for TC Energy. The project included a 94,000 HP gas compression station, a 12.4-mile (20 km) 36-inch pipeline, and a record-breaking landfall connection in Tuxpan, Veracruz. Techint E&C installed a landfall for the first time in its history by inserting 1,915 metres (1.19 miles) of 36-inch pipeline into a 56-inch casing tunnel. The drilling was performed using Direct Pipe® technology over a length of 1,374 metres (0.85 miles). This tunnel is considered one of the longest in the world executed with this technology and diameter, surpassing the previous record of 1,100 metres for a 56-inch pipe. At its peak, the project required over 1,500 people to work simultaneously and in coordination across the three main work fronts, including direct and subcontracted personnel. This represented over 3 million construction hours and 150,000 hours of detailed engineering. The project enables natural gas to flow from the Monte Grande Metering and Regulation Station through an onshore pipeline and compression station
to an offshore section. This supplies gas to southeastern Mexico and supports the region’s industrial activity.
Following its recent admission as an IPLOCA member, the Technical University of Leoben (TUL) in Austria is strengthening its collaboration with the global pipeline industry through education, applied research, and innovation. To address the growing demand for skilled professionals, TUL is launching a new Pipeline Engineering Programme in March 2026. The programme consists of 12 specialized modules, available as a University Certificate (ULG) or as individual Micro-Credentials, covering topics such as pipeline integrity, safety, sustainability, digitalization, and energy transition.
Developed in close cooperation with industry partners, the programme bridges academic expertise with practical experience. IPLOCA member companies are invited to contribute through curriculum input, guest lectures, case studies, internships, and collaborative research projects. Through these initiatives, the Technical University of Leoben supports IPLOCA members by providing access to expertise, research infrastructure, and tailored training solutions that promote innovation and sustainability within the global pipeline sector. For inquiries, contact the Programme Coordinator: Prof. Dr. Riyaz Kharrat, riyaz.kharrat@unileoben. ac.at. More information is available here
As part of the ongoing Master Gas Phase 3 project in Saudi Arabia, Tesmec is carrying out large-scale trenching operations to support the expansion of the national gas pipeline network. The project involves excavating trenches 2.13 metres wide and 2 metres deep across two key sections of the pipeline route, which spans approximately 150 kilometres. The geological conditions along the route vary significantly,
including formations such as limestone, siltstone, granite, and basalt. To address these challenges, different trenching methodologies are being applied. In one section, a pilot trenching approach is used, where two machines sequentially excavate the trench, the first performing a narrower cut and the second completing the full width and depth in a single pass. In the other section, a double-cut method is applied, involving two machines widening the trench in stages to meet the final specifications. Excavated material is processed on-site for potential reuse as padding and bedding, reducing the need for imported materials. The work is supported by local operation and maintenance teams, ensuring equipment reliability and continuity across the project.
LK2 S.r.l. is a dynamic and ever-evolving company, operating across a range of industrial sectors. It specialises in the distribution of high-quality products, accessories, and services to critical industries, including oil, gas, water, and district heating. Its mission is to be the preferred partner for technologically advanced products and services specifically designed for pipelines. LK2 is dedicated to meeting and surpassing its customers’ highest expectations in terms of both quality and competitiveness, ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation in every sector it serves.
LK2 S.r.l.
Piazza Zamara 27 25036 Palazzolo sull’Oglio Italy
T +39 2 94960747
segreteria@lk2group.com www.lk2group.com
More than 420 members and guests gathered in Izmir, Türkiye from 15 to 19 September 2025 for IPLOCA’s 57th Annual Convention. The five-day event combined two days of business meetings with three days of cultural programmes, offering attendees a balanced mix of professional development and networking opportunities.
The Open General Meetings presented a distinguished line-up of industry speakers addressing critical topics in the energy and pipeline sectors, including pipeline logistics, the German gas grid landscape, energy corridor resilience,
post-globalization and energy transition, AI in construction project delivery, energy transition economics, and construction technology innovation. Further information on all the speakers can be found on page 27. Four awards were presented during the Open General Meetings, recognizing outstanding achievements in Health & Safety, Corporate Social Responsibility, Quality, and New Technologies. Further information on all 2025 awards can be found on page 28.
Additional business opportunities included Poster Sessions presented by Cyntech Group, Gulf Energy Information, LCS Cable Cranes GmbH and Premier, as well as ten-minute
B2B meetings hosted by A. Lamb Associates Ltd, Allied International S.r.l., Bechtel Energy Inc., Bonatti, Gascontrol Polska, Herrenknecht AG, SICIM S.p.A., Spiecapag, and Steeltrade S.r.l., offering private, one-on-one discussions with interested members.
The social programme created memorable experiences through elegant evening events including cocktail receptions, dinners, and dancing. Cultural tours showcased the region’s rich heritage with visits to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Ephesus and Pergamon—as well as the coastal towns of Çeşme and Alaçatı, the wine villages of Şirince and Urla, and Izmir’s vibrant bazaars and museums.
This year’s post-convention questionnaire achieved a response rate of approximately 30%—the highest in recent years. Thank you to those who responded!
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 94% of respondents planning to attend next year’s Convention in Athens, and 89% willing to recommend the event to colleagues. Business meetings and social events received predominantly excellent or good ratings, with 93% confirming they were able to network as expected.
The technical presentations were particularly well-received, with the session on energy transition by Gulf Companies’ Sr. VP Operations, Bill Olson earning the highest ratings. Other popular topics included the German gas grid landscape, AI in pipeline construction, and post-globalization trends. The panel discussion on IPLOCA’s projects and committees was also greatly appreciated. Many respondents expressed interest in future presentations on upcoming projects, new technologies, and the energy transition.
The convention app remained popular with 90% of respondents using it throughout the event, though some suggested improvements to the messaging functionality. The current format of two business days combined with three cultural days continues to resonate, with 79% of attendees supporting this event structure compared to 21% who preferred three business days.
While feedback was largely positive, some respondents noted that bus journeys to cultural & social destinations were longer than ideal, as Izmir’s best venues were unusually far from the city centre. This feedback will inform future
planning as we continue to prioritize convenient travel distances. The strong attendance, positive feedback, and high intention to return demonstrate the continued value IPLOCA’s Annual Convention provides to the pipeline and energy infrastructure community.
Attendees were sent a link in November to view and download the photos on the following pages, as well as many others. We hope you enjoy the photos! Save the Date
The 58 th Annual Convention Athens, Greece 28 September - 2 October 2026
IPLOCA Executive Director Georges Hage opened the Annual General Meeting and welcomed the delegates.
President Yasar Giregiz presented his “Year in Review” during the meeting. He expressed satisfaction with the two successful Regional Meetings which brought the industry together in Latin America and Central Europe. Another notable achievement this year was the launch of IPLOCA NEST, the knowledge hub. Sixteen new companies joined the Association in 2025, and an initiative was introduced to attract young start-ups in the industry. The NextGen Network, launched last year, has quickly gained popularity since it opened to all members under the age of 35. Currently, more than 50 young professionals are part of this group.
The Treasurer, Bruno Pomaré, presented the Treasurer’s Report.
The AGM approved the audited full-year 2024 accounts and the appointment of new auditors for the 2025 financial year.
The AGM ratified the 2025-2026 Board of Directors election results.
The Incoming President, Saji Khoury, closed the meeting by outlining his objectives for the coming term, which include delivering a high-value convention in 2026; holding Regional Meetings; remaining a key reference point through updated educational content and industry standards; reinforcing the NextGen initiative to engage young professionals and attract new talent to the industry; promoting IPLOCA globally to grow membership and enhance visibility; and highlighting sustainability, innovation, and safety as core values across all activities.
A huge thank you to our guest speakers for their contributions during the Open General Meetings. The speakers’ presentations are available at www.iploca.com/presentations
Richard Allen
Director Logistics, Worley
Right Place, Right Time: The Art of Pipeline Logistics
Volkan Kara
Partner, Bain & Company
Perspectives on Post- Globalisation and Energy Transition
Paul Rebello
Director of Global Marketing, CATERPILLAR Inc.
Innovation & Site Efficiency
Dr. Gunnar Brandin
Head of Technical Projects, OGE An Outlook on the German Gas Grid Landscape
Michael Mazur
Co-founder and CEO, AI Clearing Inc.
How is AI revolutionizing the pipeline construction world?
Elchin Ibadov CEO, SOCAR Türkiye Building Resilient Energy Corridors
Bill Olson Sr. VP Operations, Gulf Companies (aka Gulf Interstate Engineering Company) Energy Transition: Physics & Economics Ultimately Prevail
The IPLOCA awards are intended to reward those companies that are in the lead in their search for excellence.
The winners and runners-up for four awards were presented in Izmir. The list of submissions received and further information on the entries are available on our website at: www.iploca.com/awards
SNAM
The runners-up were: In recognition of its commitment to safety, the committee awarded Murphy Group for its “Visual Standards”. Murphy developed a visual, interactive platform to deliver safety information clearly and immediately. By incorporating animated scenarios, multilingual support, and mobile access, the company made sure that safety information could be delivered right at the point of work, in a way that is clear and engaging.
The committee decided to award Bonatti for its solution called “e-Defender”. The e-Defender is an innovative engineering solution designed to prevent overhead power line (OHPL) incidents, a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities in lifting operations. By restricting boom height to a pre-set limit, the system eliminates the risk of accidental contact with lower lines, significantly reducing the likelihood of electrocution, equipment damage, and operational downtime.
The Adjudication Committee decided to award the prize to M. Al-Barghash for its initiative called “Centralized Safety Command Centre”. The committee gave the following reasons for its decision: M. Al-Barghash’s project was awarded for its intelligent and efficient model of HSE management.
The Safety Command Centre significantly reduces risk of fatality or severe injury through proactive monitoring and control of health, safety, and environmental risks. Through integrated technologies like remote area safety monitoring systems and AI-guided camera-based observation, potential hazards are swiftly detected and addressed. Minimizing the likelihood of accidents.
“We are proud and honoured to emerge as the winner of the 2025 IPLOCA Health & Safety Award. This award is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and tireless efforts of our entire MBTC team. It’s a fantastic moment for us to celebrate this shared success and the impact our initiative is making,” said A.S. Sabha, M. Al-Barghash’s General Manager.
by TotalEnergies
The award recognises an exemplary success in voluntarily improving the quality of life of the local community and society at large.
The Adjudication Committee decided to present the Award to Avax for its initiative called “IRIS: Innovative Irrigation Solutions for Pipeline Projects”. Avax was recognised for its innovative, low-cost, impactful and locally adapted solutions.
The initiative was realized during the construction of a highpressure natural gas pipeline to Western Macedonia. The
challenge was to achieve the uninterrupted supply of water in the fields intersected by the pipeline during the summer of 2023, one of the driest summers recorded. The AVAX team implemented two innovative irrigation solutions to transport water to non-irrigated agricultural areas. IRIS 1 is based on the supply of water with natural flow from existing irrigation canals, works with a simple siphoning system and flexible hoses without using any machinery. IRIS 2 is based on the reuse of the drainage water, works with PVC pipes with flowcontrol valves, connected to a pump and distributes water efficiently between rows of cultivated areas.
“Winning the IPLOCA CSR Award is a great honour for AVAX. Special thanks go to the entire team, who worked together with dedication and commitment to implement IRIS in the fields. IRIS significantly reduced the social impact of the project and proved that even simple methods can deliver large-scale results, protecting both communities and the environment. This recognition strengthens our commitment to integrating sustainability and responsibility into every project we deliver,” said Maria Dimanidou, ESMS Manager.
The runners-up were:
The committee awarded Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC) for the initiative “The Company Program: Start-ups and Work Readiness for Palestinian Youth”. CCC partnered with INJAZ Palestine to implement its Company Program that aims to equip youth with the tools to create opportunities, improve their professional and personal development, and help them build a more sustainable future despite the ongoing challenges and hardships they face. INJAZ Al Arab is a non-profit organisation focused on empowering youth across 13 MENA countries—including Palestine—with skills in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. CCC was especially keen on collaborating with a well-established organisation that actively involves corporate volunteers in the execution of its programs. CCC uses the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN as its guide for choosing impactful projects, and the program addressed several of the 17 SDGs.
Manager self-assessment tool. The company promotes these values across its entire value chain by requiring suppliers to comply with the Supplier Code of Conduct. As an individual company, and in partnership with its vendors, SICIM believes it can create a positive impact on society and the environment, as well as generate value for the business itself.
Learned @ CCC”. CCC has been awarded for its smart and efficient solution, which significantly enhances the quality of project execution.
The committee awarded SICIM for “Work Globally, Live Locally – Joining officially the UN Global Compact”. SICIM’s presence worldwide, also in developing countries, motivated it to intensify its corporate governance to protect the rights of workers and local communities. That’s why in 2024, SICIM joined to UN Global Compact framework, a global call to align companies’ practices with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption. SICIM promoted specific training courses in all the countries where it operates, in order to spread the 10 Principles of the UN Global Compact at all levels of the organisation. In addition, SICIM reports annually on progress made towards the UNGC’s SDGs, supported by the SDG Action
Since decades, capturing invaluable knowledge from CCC’s vast portfolio of global projects has been a cornerstone of its commitment to excellence. The new platform, embedded within the CCC Knowledge Management Portal, revolutionizes this practice. By leveraging advanced AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), it has transformed static data into a dynamic, real-time knowledge resource. The platform’s intelligent CCC AI Agent provides the field teams with instant, context-aware answers to project challenges, drawing directly from the repository of past experiences. Furthermore, Generative AI streamlines strategic decisionmaking by automatically generating executive summaries from project data. This innovation has delivered significant strategic benefits, including bridging knowledge gaps,
reducing repeat mistakes, and fostering a stronger culture of continuous learning. CCC has already seen a four-fold increase in engagement since deployment, proving its value to the various teams.
“This award is a testament to CCC’s commitment to AI transformation and operational excellence,” said Dr. Mustafa Abusalah, Manager, Data Analytics & Innovation. “By blending our deep construction expertise with cuttingedge technology, we are not only building projects but also building the future of our industry.”
The runners-up were:
The committee awarded Bonatti for the “Quality in Action” initiative. The “Quality in Action” initiative was launched in 2024 as part of Bonatti’s ongoing efforts to improve quality culture at the Source Water Pipeline Project in Rumaila, Iraq. It was implemented across all project areas, including main site offices, field sections, and subcontractor zones. Workers are encouraged to speak up, suggest improvements, and share problems and best practices. The initiative was fully supported and funded by Bonatti as an internal quality improvement programme. Implemented locally at the Rumaila oil field, the initiative has shown significant benefits for the project. Bonatti recognizes the value of this approach and is committed to integrating it into its standard practices. By progressively implementing “Quality in Action” in various projects, Bonatti aims to embed a proactive quality culture throughout the organization.
The committee awarded SICIM for the “Full Quality Readiness Review” process. The Full Quality Readiness Review process has significantly reduced Non-Conformities (NC) in pilot construction sites. This process adds value by ensuring that all necessary activities are ready to be executed safely and efficiently, thereby improving overall project quality. It demonstrates management’s commitment to quality and staff training by involving the IT Department to develop modern information management tools and ensuring that personnel receive adequate training. The Full Quality Readiness Review represents a significant step forward for quality in the industry by introducing a structured and verifiable method to ensure readiness, reducing NCs from knowledge gaps from 77% to 42% - a 35% improvement compared to reference data. Additional benefits include positive feedback from clients regarding project quality management and staff training, enhancing client trust.The Full Quality Readiness Review process has significantly reduced Non-Conformities (NC) in pilot construction sites. This process adds value by ensuring that all necessary activities are ready to be executed safely and efficiently, thereby improving overall project quality. It demonstrates management’s commitment to quality and staff training by involving the IT Department to develop modern
information management tools and ensuring that personnel receive adequate training. The Full Quality Readiness Review represents a significant step forward for quality in the industry by introducing a structured and verifiable method to ensure readiness, reducing NCs from knowledge gaps from 77% to 42% - a 35% improvement compared to reference data. Additional benefits include positive feedback from clients regarding project quality management and staff training, enhancing client trust.
by BP
The award recognises a significant achievement in the development of new pipeline technologies.
The committee decided to present the award to AVAX in recognition of their SafeLine 360 – Digital Health and Safety Platform for Pipeline Projects. Avax earned its laureate status by combining practical results, digital innovation, and strategic foresight in one comprehensive safety and compliance platform.
The idea behind SafeLine360 was simple: to replace piles of paper and complicated procedures with a tool that everyone—from workers in the field, to managers in the office—can use easily on their mobiles or computers. The platform helps record toolbox talks, permits, inspections, and incidents directly from the worksite, and it immediately shares this information across the project team. One of the most valuable aspects of SafeLine360 is its ability to automatically generate statistics and key performance indicators (KPIs) from the data collected in the field. These live dashboards give instant visibility into safety trends—such as incident frequency, inspection results, and risk levels. With this information, managers can take preventive actions
earlier, allocate resources more effectively, and measure progress in real time. While the system was first developed for Health & Safety management, it is now expanding to include logistics, environmental monitoring, and equipment tracking.
“Winning the IPLOCA New Technologies Award is a very special moment for the AVAX team. We feel proud and grateful that our efforts have been recognized by the international pipeline community. Looking to the future, our goal is to keep improving SafeLine360 and to share what we learn with others in the industry,” said Konstantinos Boutsioulis, Logistics Manager.
The runners-up were:
The committee awarded AI Clearing for their “AI-driven Construction Progress Monitoring and Quality Control”.
AI Clearing’s digital platform provides the pipeline construction industry with a novel, comprehensive solution for real-time progress monitoring and claim validation, addressing limitations of previous manual methods. Leveraging highaccuracy photogrammetric data and AI-powered analytics, the platform delivers progress reports within 24 hours, a significant acceleration compared to traditional surveys. While the primary focus isn’t direct safety or environmental improvements, the platform indirectly contributes by enabling proactive identification of issues like working corridor violations, allowing for timely corrective actions. It directly overcomes the problem of inconsistent and often delayed progress data, providing irrefutable evidence for validating completed work and managing claims, as demonstrated by the successful documentation of weather-related delays.
Marcin Przywara, Committee Chair
“The Committee for Membership and Communications focuses on promoting the organisation among companies in the pipeline industry and expanding its membership base. Activities include active promotion on social media, especially on LinkedIn, where we have noticed a steady increase in engagement.
“Our 2025–2026 committee is made up of Andre DeCastro, Michael Fakhoury, Yasar Giregiz, Zara Kiziryan, Hakan Kozan, Jason LaValley, Matthew O’Connell, Bruno Pomaré, Jichang Zhang and Marcin Przywara (Chair).
The committee awarded NMDC Energy for their “AIPowered Site Safety Monitoring System”. The AI-powered site monitoring system introduces real-time, automated observation capabilities, replacing manual and reactive safety protocols. It enables 24/7 monitoring of large, complex worksites using video analytics, which was previously not achievable with traditional methods. The system integrates advanced computer vision, object detection, pose estimation, and heatmap analytics to monitor PPE compliance, unsafe behaviours, restricted zone breaches, and crowd density. This marks a clear technological advancement in proactive hazard detection and incident prevention on construction sites. One of the major challenges in pipeline construction is ensuring compliance across vast and dynamic field environments. The system addresses this by enabling scalable, real-time, and automated monitoring.
We thank all our members who participated in the 2025 awards.
We encourage all members to prepare and submit entries for 2026, which, in addition to the IPLOCA Health & Safety Award sponsored by Snam, will include the IPLOCA Environmental Award sponsored by Shell, and the Excellence in Project Execution Award sponsored by IPLOCA. Submissions are required by April 2026 and further information will be available on www.iploca.com .
“We will gradually implement the committee’s initiatives and objectives, as well as the goals set for us by the IPLOCA Board and the new President. A constant priority is to continue to recruit new members, including companies from regions with growing economic potential, such as the East & Far East. The organisation also aims to expand its membership to include manufacturers and suppliers of pipeline equipment and services, as well as innovative technology start-ups.
“In the spirit of cooperation, the committee asks all partners to recommend companies from their supply chains that stand out for their high quality and professionalism. We also encourage our members to recommend young, dynamic companies that the Association can support with beneficial membership terms and development assistance. Thanks to initiatives like these, IPLOCA strengthens its position as a global platform for cooperation, innovation, and the exchange of experience in the pipeline industry.”
The workshop, held on 28 October in Budapest, Hungary, covered the following themes: the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), reporting evolution, and strategies for driving a positive safety culture.
IPLOCA warmly thanks the members of the HSE & CSR Committee who sponsored this workshop, namely: Bonatti, Caterpillar, CRC Evans, LaValley Industries, J. Murphy and Sons, SICIM, Serimax, Spiecapag, Max Streicher S.p.A., and RSK.
Giovanni Muriana, Committee Chair
Driving Progress: HSE & CSR Committee
Highlights from Budapest
“On 27 October, the HSE & CSR Committee convened in Budapest for its third in-person meeting of the year, following sessions in Palermo in April, Geneva in June, and two virtual gatherings. The committee reviewed a proposed incentive scheme aimed at enhancing IPLOCA members’ engagement within the Association. This initiative will be submitted to the Board for approval. We also explored new strategic directions and finalized our KPI objectives for the 2026–2030 period.
“Looking ahead, virtual committee meetings are scheduled for January, June, and September 2026. A face-to-face session will take place in April, aligned with the next Novel Construction Session.
“On 28 October, the HSE Workshop took place, spotlighting two key themes. In the morning, Emily Lee (Nature Positive) and Stephanie Wray (Nature Repair), both from the RSK Group, guided us through the evolving Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and its implications for non-financial disclosures. In the afternoon, John Kirinons and Gareth Riding from J. Murphy & Sons Ltd. shared their impactful journey toward cultivating a positive safety culture. Their practical examples and team-focused initiatives offered valuable insights into elevating safety standards across our industry.
“We thank all contributors for their dedication and look forward to continued collaboration.”
The Committee welcomed a new member, Jean-Baptiste Rousseau, who is the Director of the Technical Department at Spiecapag.
His key responsibilities at Spiecapag include serving as the technical representative within Vinci Construction’s Major Projects Division; coordinating R&D and innovation efforts; managing the construction equipment fleet; overseeing logistics and purchasing; and providing support to project teams. Throughout his three-decade career, he has worked in leadership roles in Business Development and Project Management. These roles have allowed him to travel the world, and gain experience working under challenging circumstances. He has lived in countries such as Australia, India, South Africa, Yemen, Oman, and the UK. Jean-Baptiste earned his mechanical engineering degree from the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Métiers (ENSAM) in Paris, France.
The Novel Construction Fall Session took place on 29-30 October 2025 in Budapest, Hungary.
We were delighted to welcome almost 90 delegates from around the world to the two-day event, which focused on new technologies, energy transition and sustainable development. The following subjects were presented during the Novel Session:
- Clearing the Right-of-Way for AI: De-risking Innovation with the ISO 42001 Framework Dariusz Ciesla, VP of Product & Strategy, AI Clearing
- Summary of CO2 & H 2 Pipeline System Design/ Construction Code Developments
Bill Olson, Sr. Vice President, Gulf Interstate Engineering Company
- Guardians of the Flow: Securing Critical Infrastructure with a New Generation of Skilled Labour
Dinko Cudic, Director of Markets and Applications Development, Henkel-Seal For Life
- Pipe-in-Pipe Systems for Energy Transition Applications
Geraldine Salque, Innovation Director, ITP Interpipe
- Driving Efficiency Through Digitalization: Resource Management on a Key Energy Transition Project in Europe
Narjisse Benchrifa, Digital Project Manager, Spiecapag and Sachin Srivastava, Vice President – EMEA, Petro IT
- Protecting the weaker contracting party: Which Law Can Help You Virginie Colaiuta, Solicitor, LMS Legal LLP
- Pipeline: a World of Opportunities, Passion, and Future
Lena Muscillo, CEO, LogIc
- Sustainable Solutions in Pipeline Construction
Filippo Levati, QHSSE Corporate Manager, SICIM
- Building the Backbone of Renewable Energy: Trenchless Solutions for Germany’s Power Transition
Michael Lubberger, Michels Trenchless
- Lifecycle Integrity Reimagined: AI, Digital Shadows, and Real-Time Compliance for Energy Infrastructure
Shailesh Radhakrishnan, VP, Engineering & Technology, CRC Evans
- Digital Transformation & AI to Enhance Indirect Work Efficiency
Mustafa Abusalah, Manager Data Analytics & Innovation, CCC
We would like to thank our generous Gold sponsors, Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC), MONTER Strojarske Montaže d.d., MAX STREICHER S.p.A. and Siver sponsors, SICILSALDO S.p.A., SICIM S.p.A. and Vacuworx Global, LLC for their support of the event, as well as all those who participated in the Novel Construction Fall Session. We look forward to our next session which is planned for 15-16 April 2026 in Mallorca, Spain.
Somaieh Salehpour, Committee Chair
“The IPLOCA Innovation Committee is pleased to share that our recent Novel Construction Initiative event in Budapest was a great success. We welcomed 85 participants from across the pipeline and energy infrastructure industry, representing contractors, technology providers from around the world.
“The event featured a series of insightful presentations from industry experts, highlighting emerging technologies, innovative materials, and AI/digital tools that are reshaping the way pipelines are designed, constructed, and maintained. The lively discussions and networking sessions demonstrated once again the strong appetite within our community for collaboration and innovation.
“We extend our appreciation to all speakers, participants, and supporting companies who contributed to the success of this event. Your engagement and ideas are the driving force behind the Innovation Committee’s mission—to foster knowledge sharing and accelerate the adoption of new technologies that enhance safety, sustainability, and efficiency in pipeline construction.
“Looking ahead, the committee will continue developing initiatives to connect innovators with project owners and contractors, including the Innovation Hub platform and future Novel Construction events.”
Saji Khoury, NextGen Network Committee Chair, IPLOCA President
“The Board’s NextGen Committee consists of Saji Khoury (Chair), Guido Cagnani, Andre DeCastro, Gian Marco Dondi, Michael Fakhoury, and Kent Wilfur.
“It was fantastic to see a strong presence of NextGen members at both the Annual Convention in Izmir and the HSE & CSR Workshop and Novel Construction Session in Budapest. Since we recently onboarded many new NextGen members, we held an introductory call in October to serve as an induction to IPLOCA and as a brainstorming session on the future direction of this community. Several great ideas emerged:
- Speakers Committee: A group of NextGen members will identify industry leaders to speak at our online sessions.
- Social Media Videos: Short videos showcasing the everyday life of young professionals in our industry will be created for IPLOCA’s LinkedIn page.
- Online Happy Hour: A virtual networking event to help NextGen members connect and build relationships.
- Annual Convention Visibility: Ideas include a dedicated award or a panel discussion to highlight NextGen contributions.
Saji Khoury, Scholarship Project Lead, IPLOCA President
“The Scholarship Committee is composed of Saji Khoury (Chair), Bill Solomon, Andre DeCastro, Gian Marco Dondi, Michael Fakhoury, and Zara Kiziryan.
“We are also looking forward to our next online session. Our guest speaker will be Michael Mazur, Co-founder and CEO of AI Clearing, presenting: “How AI is Revolutionising the Delivery of Construction Projects in the Pipeline World.”
“We look forward to the opening of applications on 15 January. The committee is currently reviewing ways to improve both the application and grading processes, including the integration of AI to enhance efficiency. At the same time, we are committed to ensuring that any use of AI remains fair and unbiased.”
Don’t miss out! Apply between 15 January and 15 March 2026. IPLOCA proudly supports the next generation of professionals in pursuing their educational goals.
A limited number of scholarships are available to children and grandchildren of employees of IPLOCA Regular and Associate Members. www.iploca.com/scholarships
11 March 2026 - Houston, U.S.A.
IPLOCA America North Regional Meeting
PLCA 78 th Annual Convention
11-15 February 2026 – Phoenix, AZ, U.S.A. www.plca.org
DCA 2026 Annual Convention
23-28 February 2026 – Miami, FL, U.S.A. www.dcaweb.org
15 - 16 April 2026 - Mallorca, Spain
Novel Construction Spring Session
17 June 2026 - Paris, France
Europe Mediterranean Regional Meeting
Member News for IPLOCA March Newsletter
30 January – Deadline for submissions newsletter@iploca.com
IPLOCA Scholarship Programme Applications 15 January 2026 – Opening date for submissions www.iploca.com/scholarship
PIG – The Pipeline Industries Guild 68 th Annual Dinner 10 March 2026 – London, U.K. www.pipeguild.com
World Pipelines CCS Forum 18 March 2026 – London, U.K. www.worldpipelines.com/ccsforum2026
6th Edition of GIC
16-18 April 2026 – Piacenza, Italy www.gic-expo.it
PLCAC 72 nd Convention
20-24 April 2026 – Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A. https://pipeline.ca
Hannover Messe
20-24 April 2026 – Hannover, Germany www.hannovermesse.de
21st Pipeline Technology Conference (PTC)
27-30 April 2026 – Berlin, Germany www.pipeline-conference.com
Member News for IPLOCA June Newsletter
30 April – Deadline for submissions newsletter@iploca.com
28 September - 2 October 2026
Athens, Greece
IPLOCA Annual Convention
We are pleased to announce the publication of the 59th edition of the IPLOCA Yearbook.
More than just a publication, the Yearbook embodies our shared commitment as members of the IPLOCA Association: a global community of professionals dedicated
As a benefit of membership, IPLOCA members have the possibility to post industry articles through any of our Media
Benjamin Media
Trenchless Technology
3554 Brecksville Road
Suite 200
Richfield, OH 44286
U.S.A.
T +1 330 467 7588
E info@benjaminmedia.com
trenchlesstechnology.com
Rob Krzys
President & Publisher
E robk@benjaminmedia.com
Gulf Energy Information
Pipeline & Gas Journal
Underground Infrastructure
8 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1440 Houston, TX 77046
U.S.A.
T +1 713 529 4301
www.pgjonline.com
www.undergroundinfrastructure.com
to advancing the pipeline industry together. Beyond being a showcase for your company to customers and partners, the Yearbook, together with the IPLOCA website and newsletters, serves as a vital platform that strengthens IPLOCA’s visibility and influence on the global stage. This publication would not exist without the continued support of our advertisers, to whom we extend our heartfelt thanks. Please remember to send us the contact details of individuals who should receive this publication. All content from the IPLOCA Yearbook is also available online at www. iploca.com/yearbook
We encourage all Key Representatives of IPLOCA member companies to take advantage of the online Members Dashboard. It allows you to edit your company profile, published on the IPLOCA website and the IPLOCA Yearbook, update your company’s contact persons’ information and add IPLOCA Newsletter recipients. To do so, simply log in via the link at the top right-hand corner of our website. If you have forgotten your password or wish to create a new one, click on ‘lost your password?’ Should you need any assistance please contact support@iploca.com
Partners, as listed below. Should you have an interesting article you would like to share, please contact: eszter.czirjak@iploca.com
John Royall President and CEO E john.royall@gulfenergyinfo.com
Jim Watkins European Sales Manager E jim.watkins@gulfenergyinfo.com
Mediapoint & Exhibitions Srl
Pipeline & Gas Expo GIS Expo
Corte Lambruschini
Corso Buenos Aires, 8 V° piano - interno 7 16129 Genoa
ITALY E info@mediapointsrl.it www.pipeline-gasexpo.it www.gisexpo.it
Fabio Potestà Director E info@mediapointsrl.it
Palladian Publications World Pipelines
15 South Street Farnham GU9 7QU
Surrey U.K.
T +44 1252 718 999
E mail@palladian-publications.com www.palladian-publications.com www.worldpipelines.com
Rod Hardy Director
E rod.hardy@worldpipelines.com
Chris Lethbridge Advertisement Manager E chris.lethbridge@worldpipelines.com
Elizabeth Corner Editor E elizabeth.corner@worldpipelines.com
Saji Khoury
Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC)
President Director, Middle East & Africa
Scholarship Committee Chair NextGen Network Project Lead
Bill Solomon
Vacuworx Global, LLC
1st Vice President Director, Associate Members
Alejandro Maluf
Techint Engineering & Construction
2 nd Vice President Director, Latin America
Energy Transition Committee Chair
Yaşar Giregiz
Fernas Construction Company
Immediate Past President
Bruno Pomaré
Spiecapag
Treasurer Director, Europe Mediterranean
Georges Hage
Executive Director
Guido Cagnani
SICIM S.p.A. Director, Europe Mediterranean
Roberto Castelli * Bonatti S.p.A. Director, Europe Central
Benet Chan *
CATERPILLAR Inc. Director at Large
Andre DeCastro
Darby Equipment Company Inc. Director, Associate Members
Gian Marco Dondi * SCAIP S.p.A. Director, Europe Central
Michael Fakhoury
Nesma & Partners Contracting Company UJSC Director, Middle East & Africa
Zara Kiziryan Glavbolgarstroy International AD Director, Europe Eastern
Wilko Koop
De Romein Groep B.V. Director, Europe Northwest
Hakan Kozan ENKA İnşaat ve Sanayi A.Ş. Director, Europe Eastern
Jason LaValley LaValley Industries Director, Associate Members
Gonzalo Montenegro SEPCON Director, Latin America
Giovanni Muriana * MAX STREICHER S.p.A. Director at Large HSE & CSR Committee Chair
Dale Mykyte Pe Ben USA Director, America North
Matthew O’Connell * Nacap Pty Ltd. Director, East & Far East
Mauro Piasere * CRC Evans Director, Europe Northwest
Marcin Przywara * Gascontrol Polska Sp. z.o.o. Director at Large Membership & Communication Committee Chair
Somaieh Salehpour * Seal For Life Industries Director at Large Innovation Committee Chair
Matthew Westphal Michels Corporation Director, America North
Kent Wilfur * Gulf Interstate Engineering Company Director at Large
Jichang Zhang
CPP - China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co., Ltd. Director, East & Far East
* appointed by the Board of Directors
