Pipeline Industry Faces Growing Need for Skilled Next-Generation Workforce

TYLER CAMPBELL, Editor-in-Chief

(P&GJ) — The pipeline industry has spent years talking about expansion projects and energy transition goals, but one of the biggest challenges facing the industry today may be much simpler: finding enough skilled workers to keep systems running safely and reliably.

Across the energy sector, many experienced workers are nearing retirement. According to McKinsey, hundreds of thousands of workers in the energy industry could retire over the next decade.¹ That creates a major challenge for pipeline operators because replacing personnel is not only about filling jobs—it is also about replacing years/decades of hands-on experience.

Pipelines today are more advanced than ever. Operators use tools like inline inspection, leak detection systems, remote monitoring and predictive analytics to improve safety and efficiency. Regulations also continue to become more detailed.

The good news is that the industry recognizes this problem and is responding. More companies and organizations are focusing on training, technical education and knowledge sharing. A good example is the new Pumps & Valves Innovation Conference (PVIC) hosted by Gulf Energy Information and Empowering Pumps & Equipment, which will be held in Pasadena, Texas, November 2–3 of this year. The event is designed specifically for engineers, operators and technicians working with flow systems across oil and gas, refining, petrochemicals and water industries.

The conference will focus on practical learning instead of sales presentations, and include engineering, technology and leadership tracks as well as hands-on workshops in working pump and valve labs. This kind of training matters because pumps, valves and flow systems are essential parts of any pipeline infrastructure.

Maintaining the workforce will require continued investment in training and mentorship. Trained professionals are still required to keep pipelines safe and reliable. As the industry invests in modern equipment and digital tools, it will need to invest just as heavily in preparing the next generation of skilled workers.

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_{1 McKinsey & Company, “Talent squeeze: Planning for the energy sector’s talent transition,” February 2024, online: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/oil-and-gas/our-insights/talent-squeeze-planning-for-the-energy-sectors-talent-transition}