Young pipeliners would play a key role in tackling the industry’s future challenges, according to APIA chief executive Cheryl Cartwright.

“It is important that the industry reinforces the commitment and enthusiasm of our younger professionals, particularly as this sector also faces competition for skilled personnel,” Cartwright said.

Speaking at the completion of the Association’s annual convention in Adelaide, Ms Cartwright said the APIA Young People’s Forum would be held in Canberra on May 5, 2006.

“The Forum will be an excellent opportunity for a new round of networking to start amongst the younger set in the pipeline industry,” she said.

“Networking, training and exchanging of information has had a major input into the success and commitment of the ‘older’ industry participants – it’s now time to support the next generation of pipeliners.”

Cartwright also announced that APIA was undertaking a major initiative to address the looming skills crisis facing the pipeline industry.

“APIA is working on a proposal to link with a university to develop a training program for pipeline engineers,” she said.

“It is expected that the program would be designed as a sub-program within a broader engineering degree and be delivered with the active participation of experienced pipeline industry professionals.”