The Australian Pipeline Industry Association will host the forum. According to APIA chief executive Cheryl Cartwright, “The pipeline industry is a high technology sector and demands a diverse range of professional and trade skills – from a variety of engineering skills to expertise in the environment, safety, management, marketing, law and accounting.

“The Young People’s Forum will highlight the wide range of well-paid career opportunities available in the pipeline industry from outback Australia to regional centres and capital cities.

“The forum will bring young people together and tap their ideas and initiative. It will be an excellent way forward and a chance to showcase industry opportunities for existing members and potential participants.”

Presentations at the forum will encompass issues and challenges in areas such as the environment, construction and safety, design, project management, pipeline operations and economic regulation.

The diversity of employment opportunities in the pipeline and energy industries will be canvassed, as well as career flexibility, generational change and training progression.

“While pipelines are out of sight and therefore out of mind, the construction and operation of this critical infrastructure provides real challenges and opportunities that many young people enjoy. APIA’s forum is a chance to share those experiences,” Cartwright said.

The Young People’s Forum will commence with a day of presentations at Rydges Capital Hill on May 5 before moving to the National Museum of Australia for an interactive debate on May 6.

For further information on this event see www.apia.net.au