A small group of trusty volunteers had considered how we could provide APIA-approved training that would be recognised nationally. APIA would not offer training, rather the Association would facilitate the training program, with a range of courses being offered by registered training organisations and certified by APIA.

A forum was held in Melbourne on 11 February to take the proposal to the broader industry and to take the next step. This forum was well attended by senior members of the industry and all involved agreed that the proposal should proceed, suggesting that the APIA Board be encouraged to agree to funding a business plan. I am pleased to report that, at its meeting on 20 February, the Board did just that and we are now about to embark on a business plan.

Even so, it is still quite possible that this proposal will not proceed. If it does proceed and we have a process that allows for the training program – with a range of courses – to grow over time, eventually a full program will be something the industry can be proud of, and perhaps something also that can be considered by a university as a recognised tertiary course.

In the meantime, Australia’s pipeline engineers can choose to undertake APIA qualifications for a range of courses, and those qualifications will be recognised industry-wide.

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Watch this space!