Event Summary
Pipeline operators are under increasing pressure to strengthen integrity management programs while making effective use of in-line inspection (ILI) technologies. However, many organizations struggle to fully understand the capabilities, limitations, and practical application of intelligent pigging data within broader integrity management strategies.
Without a well-managed ILI program, operators may misinterpret inspection results, overlook critical defects, or fail to prioritize repairs effectively. This can lead to increased operational risk, inefficient maintenance planning, regulatory exposure, and reduced confidence in integrity decision-making.
This interactive workshop provides a practical, in-depth approach to establishing and managing a high-value ILI program. Participants will gain hands-on understanding of intelligent pig technologies, inspection of data interpretation, defect assessment, and risk-based decision-making—while learning how to integrate ILI results into a comprehensive pipeline integrity program.
Participants will be able to select appropriate ILI technologies, critically evaluate inspection results, and develop effective repair and remediation strategies. They will leave with the knowledge to improve integrity management decisions, support compliance efforts, and optimize the value of their in-line inspection programs.
What You Will Gain
- A practical understanding of how ILI programs support pipeline integrity management
- Knowledge of intelligent pig technologies, including strengths and limitations
- Ability to evaluate inspection data and prioritize repairs or replacements
- Insight into defect assessment, inspection accuracy, and data analysis processes
- Understanding of how inspection speed and operational controls impact results
- Awareness of regulatory requirements and industry best practices related to ILI
- Guidance on integrating ILI data into broader integrity management systems
- Access to industry resources, technologies, and case studies
Attendees will receive 22 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion.
Who Should Attend
- Operations and maintenance engineers responsible for pipeline integrity
- Senior technicians supporting in-line inspection programs
- Pipeline operators and owners managing integrity initiatives
- Professionals responsible for inspection planning, remediation, or compliance
- Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of intelligent pigging technologies and applications
Prior Knowledge Recommendations
- Basic understanding of pipeline operations
- Basic familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT) concepts
Workshop Highlights
- Interactive, discussion-driven learning environment
- Registration limited to 30 participants to maximize instructor engagement and collaboration
- Real-world applications of intelligent pigging technologies and integrity management practices
Lodging
There is not an official room block for this event but we recommend the following hotels nearby:
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin
4475 Bridge Park Ave
Dublin, OH 43017 - AC Hotel by Marriott Columbus Dublin
6540 Riverside Dr
Dublin, OH 43017
Credly Digital Badge
Level 3 Natural Gas Industry Inline Inspection Expert
SGA has partnered with Credly, the leader in digital credentials, to certify the recipients have a dynamic understanding of establishing and managing an inline inspection program that contributes optimum value toward improved pipeline integrity. They have a working knowledge of the following: principles of design and operation of key systems of an intelligent pig, attributes of data analysis processes, prioritizing for inspection, repair and replacement assessments, inspection efficiency and speed control of pigs.
Criteria
Meet Your Instructors:
Bruce Nestleroth
Thomas Bubenik
Michael Rosenfeld
Matt Romney
McKenzie Kissel
Matthew Ellinger
Lucinda Smart
Anne Schniederbruns
Simon Slater
Stefan Vages
Benjamin Hanna
Miguel Irigoyen
Bruce Nestleroth
Consultant
Dr. Bruce Nestleroth is now a part-time consultant, after over 35 years in the pipeline industry. Bruce started his career in the 1980s at Battelle, the place that developed many pipeline solutions including B31G, LnSec, and RSTRENG. After 26 years of developing and testing ILI technology at Battelle, Bruce applied the tools and knowledge he developed at Kiefner and ROSEN. Dr. Nestleroth began developing and presenting workshops in 1995 after publishing a report for the Gas Research Institute (GRI) that detailed the capability and limitation of magnetic flux leakage (MFL) technology. He also has served on committees developing technical standards for the pipeline industry including API 1163 In-line Inspection Systems Qualification, API 1176 Assessment and Management of Cracking in Pipelines.
