Facing the future as a united industry
Stepping into the role of President of IGEM is more than an honour—it’s a profound privilege. The trust you’ve placed in me is humbling, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity.
As I embark on this journey, I am committed to serving our industry with dedication and integrity, ensuring that I uphold the values of the institution.
My career in the gas industry began on a seemingly ordinary day, yet it was a pivotal moment in my life. I vividly remember being dropped off by my father at Washington Services on the A1(M) North, where my new manager at Transco would take me to Edinburgh to begin my apprenticeship.
At that time, the idea of becoming President of IGEM seemed unimaginable – I couldn’t even measure 600mm of pipe! However, with the support of countless mentors, tutors, colleagues and friends, I’ve reached this milestone.
This achievement is a shared honour as without their guidance I would still be struggling with that length of copper pipe.
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to gain a broad understanding of our industry, from responding to gas escapes and repairing appliances to working in the gas control room and taking on management roles.
My involvement in groundbreaking hydrogen projects and experience in both upstream and downstream arenas have provided me with a holistic perspective.
Currently, as a Principal Consultant at DNV’s Spadeadam Research and Testing site in Cumbria, I work with incredible people and clients, continually learning and growing.
IGEM has been a cornerstone of my professional journey. Regardless of my level of engagement, it has always been a significant part of my career.
Being here now, as President, is deeply meaningful to me. One question I frequently encounter is about my aims for the year.
After much reflection, one overarching theme stands out: unity. In our industry, we often divide ourselves into ‘upstream’ and ‘downstream’ sectors, operating in silos.
Yet, we are interdependent – we cannot function effectively without collaboration. For example, downstream professionals enter customers’ homes daily, providing essential guidance on energy and safety.
It is our responsibility to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and resources to serve as trusted ambassadors for our industry.
Meanwhile, our gas networks work tirelessly behind the scenes, delivering energy safely and securely and leading pioneering projects in the energy transition.
However, there is often a lack of communication and collaboration between these sectors.
My vision for IGEM is to be the bridge that connects all parts of our industry. By fostering a culture of unity and cooperation, we can enhance our collective strength and resilience. In addition, I am committed to continuing our critical work on safety.
Ensuring the safety of employees and the public is paramount and we must remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to uphold the highest safety standards.
The safety of our industry does not rely solely on adherence to regulations but also on cultivating a safety-first mindset. This involves continuous education, training and the sharing of best practices across all sectors.
By promoting a culture of safety, we can prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of everyone involved in our industry.
Moreover, I am passionate to continue the work for which my predecessors laid the groundwork in advancing equity, diversity and inclusion within our industry.
We must strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and has equal opportunities to succeed. By embracing diverse perspectives and fostering an inclusive culture, we can drive innovation and excellence.
Equity, diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they are essential components of a thriving industry. We must ensure that our workforce reflects the communities we serve and that all individuals have the chance to contribute their unique talents.
This includes initiatives to support underrepresented groups, promote gender equality and create a welcoming environment for all.
Engagement with our members is crucial. I am committed to being accessible and open to dialogue. I look forward to meeting many of you throughout the year, whether at IGEM conferences, local Section events, or through direct communication.
Your insights and experiences are invaluable, and I welcome your input as we work together to achieve our goals. As we face the future, let us do so as a united industry.
Together, we can overcome challenges, seize opportunities and continue the incredible work of keeping people safe and warm.
The gas industry is at a pivotal point, with significant changes on the horizon, from the energy transition to technological advancements.
By working together, we can navigate these changes successfully and ensure a sustainable future for our industry. Thank you for entrusting me with this role.