107 minutes
Many organizations already have access to AI-powered productivity tools, including Microsoft Copilot, but have not yet fully integrated them into daily work. This practical session focuses on using AI to save time and improve the quality of common business tasks.
Participants will explore AI use cases for writing and refining communications, summarizing meetings and documents, preparing reports, organizing information, supporting research and improving follow-through on tasks.
Participants will receive 2 Professional Development Hours (PDH) by viewing at least 95% of the course.
What You'll Walk Away With
- Identify everyday productivity tasks where AI can save time and improve quality.
- Use AI tools to support writing, meeting preparation, document summaries and task follow-up.
- Apply practical techniques for organizing information, preparing reports and supporting research.
- Recognize where review, judgment and data protection are needed when using productivity AI.
Ideal Participants
- Business professionals
- Administrative and support staff
- Customer-facing teams
- Project coordinators and managers
- Supervisors and leaders looking for practical productivity examples
Complete the Series
From AI Fundamentals to Operational Impact
A Ten-Part Practical AI Series for the Natural Gas Industry
Artificial intelligence is entering the natural gas workplace faster than most organizations have decided how to use it. Across ten live virtual sessions, JoLynn Rihn moves from AI fundamentals to role-specific application in operations, engineering, customer service, safety and compliance, and leadership, with attention throughout to where professional judgment has to stay in control.
- Part 1 | October 2, 2026: AI Fundamentals for Natural Gas Professionals
Understanding AI, Its Capabilities, and Its Role in the Industry - Part 2 | October 9, 2026: Prompt Engineering for Natural Gas Professionals
Getting Better Results from Generative AI - Part 3 | October 16, 2026: AI for Everyday Productivity & Practical Tools
Working Smarter Across Everyday Tasks - Part 4 | October 23, 2026: AI for Field Operations
Supporting Frontline Efficiency, Decision-Making, and Performance - Part 5 | October 30, 2026: AI for Engineers & Technical Teams
Applying AI to Technical Work, Analysis, and Problem-Solving - Part 6 | November 6, 2026: AI for Customer Service & Stakeholder Communications
Strengthening Communication, Responsiveness, and Engagement - Part 7 | November 13, 2026: AI for Safety, Compliance & Regulatory Readiness
Using AI Responsibly in High-Consequence Environments - Part 8 | November 20, 2026: AI for Supervisors, Leaders & Change Management
Leading People and Teams Through AI Adoption - Part 9 | December 4, 2026: Responsible AI Governance & Risk Management
Establishing Guardrails for Safe, Secure, and Accountable AI - Part 10 | December 11, 2026: Building AI Workflows & Automation
Moving from Individual Tools to Repeatable Business Processes
Meet the Instructor
JoLynn Rihn
Microsoft Master Instructor, Certified Trainer
Owner, Virtual Training Co.
For more than 25 years, JoLynn Rihn has helped organizations improve productivity through Microsoft 365, AI, collaboration, and project management solutions. Her practical, results-focused training has supported more than 30,000 professionals across a wide range of industries.
This course explores the fundamental disconnect between Gen Z’s ideal energy vision and their understanding of the energy industry’s current vision. Participants will gain insight into the key elements that make up an effective recruitment message for Gen Z. The course will feature videos from Gen Z message testing and showcase advocacy deliverables set to be finalized this year for target audiences beyond just Gen Z, ranging from elementary school students to the general public. Attendees will be encouraged to actively share these deliverables within their organizations, fostering greater awareness and utilization to improve engagement within the communities we operate in.
Attendees will receive 1 Professional Development Hour (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@sganaturalgas.org
Course Objectives
- Gen Z Engagement: Gain a deeper understanding of Gen Z viewpoints and how to bridge communication gaps effectively and craft compelling recruitment messages tailored to Gen Z
- Advocacy Toolkit Awareness and Utilization: Discover practical strategies and deliverables to share within your organization that were developed through the INGAA Foundation with the support of the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Program
- Call to Action: How can we increase awareness, use, and feedback from these toolkits by leveraging the SGA and your own company resources?
Meet Your Instructor
Tyler Tunic
Williams Companies
Tyler manages the Air Compliance and Emissions Reduction (ACER) group in Williams’ Environmental Services group in Houston, TX. His team is tasked with the “E” of Williams’ ESG efforts and ensuring Williams hits its emissions reduction targets. He received his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Penn State University in 2014 and has worked for Williams ever since. Before joining Williams’ Environmental team, Tyler held various roles in Pipeline Engineering, Pipeline Control, and Commercial. Tyler was the Chair of Young Pipeline Professionals (YPP) USA from 2021-2023, the Chair of Young Pipeliners International (YPI) 2020-2021, a member of the Public Policy and Communications Committee within the INGAA Foundation from 2019-2023 and stepped in as Chair of the PP&C Committee for 2023. Tyler currently serves on the Board of Directors for YPP USA. Tyler is a certified professional engineer in the state of Texas and obtained his MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport in 2020. The culmination of his industry advocacy work was recognized through his winning of the Young Pipeline Professional Honor at the 2022 International Pipeline Conference (IPC) in Calgary, and the inaugural Chair’s Rising Leader award through the SGA Natural Gas Association (SGA) in 2024
Event Summary
Ready to fuel your career with insight, strategy, and inspiration? Join us for “Energized Leadership”, a powerful panel discussion featuring four dynamic leaders from across the natural gas industry.
From field operations to executive strategy, these trailblazers have navigated diverse career paths—and they’re bringing their hard-won lessons to the table. Whether you’re climbing the ladder, pivoting roles, or mentoring others, this session offers real-world advice on building an impactful career.
What you’ll gain:
- Personal stories of resilience, reinvention, and rising through the ranks
- Strategies for navigating career transitions and seizing new opportunities
- Insight into leadership development, visibility, and building influence
- Candid reflections on what they wish they’d known earlier
This session is designed for professionals at all career stages in the energy industry. Come connect with like-minded professionals, ask questions, and leave energized with new tools to lead boldly in your own career.
Attendees will receive 1.5 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion.
Moderator
Rachel Williams
Rachel Williams is an expert networker, coach, and leadership mentor. After 15+ years in the energy industry, Rachel has dedicated her time to helping aspiring leaders get promoted by doing what they love most.
With a career that started as an environmental permitter for energy projects of all kinds, Rachel pivoted her career midway to align with her own unique gifts and talents, focusing on business development at Tetra Tech and serving leaders through her coaching business, Authentic Women’s Leadership. She finds connecting energy professionals with the experts and services they need quite fulfilling.
Rachel’s has also been celebrated as one of The Most Influential Leaders of Texas by Amare Magazine, and her commitment to giving back is evident in her volunteer work with organizations like the Southern Gas Association Women and Leadership Committee, and the Tetra Tech Professional Women’s Network, for which she Co-founded a Coaching Program that has helped empower hundreds of women.
A highly sought-after speaker, Rachel has delivered leadership and networking workshops across the U.S. for renowned companies such as JP Morgan Chase, Women in Tech Texas, and the Southern Gas Association, just to name a few.
When she’s not changing lives professionally, Rachel finds joy in traveling, spending quality time with loved ones, spoiling her pets, and reconnecting with nature.
Panelist
Cristie Neller
Vice President of Administrative Services, BHE GT&S
SGA Board Chair
Cristie D. Neller is vice president Administrative Services for Berkshire Hathaway Energy Gas Transmission and Storage.
She is responsible for business related services in support of the BHE GT&S team, an integrated interstate gas transmission and storage company across the East Coast, as well as supporting the broader Berkshire Hathaway Energy Business Transformation efforts.
Beginning as a co-op/intern at Virginia Power, she continued her early career at Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corp. in Houston, Tx and in Charlottesville, Va. She joined Dominion Energy in 1998, advancing through progressive leadership positions across the power generation sector in operations and engineering, all while earning her Six Sigma Black Belt from the Six Sigma Academy. In 2009, she became station director at Clover Power Station, where the team achieved recognition as top midsized coal generating facility in North America.
She was promoted to vice president Eastern Pipeline Engineering & Construction in November 2014, overseeing Dominion Energy’s Gas Transmission Engineering and Construction organization. Her leadership guided technical services and capital construction, supporting the growth and maintenance of gas transmission pipelines and storage assets along the East Coast during a period of transition for natural gas infrastructure. She later became vice president of Western Pipeline Operations in October 2019, leading the team providing natural gas transportation and underground storage services in Utah, Wyoming and Colorado.
In November 2020, she joined BHE GT&S as VP Administrative Services responsible for HR, IT, Supply Chain Fleet and Facility services, as well as leading Business Transformation efforts for BHE GT&S. She now also serves as part of the broader Berkshire Hathaway Energy business transformation leadership team.
She has served on Christopher Newport University Business School’s Board of Advisors, the Southern Gas Association Executive Council and the Utah Community Investment Board. She has previously chaired the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America’s Pipeline Safety Committee and Underground Storage Committee. Currently, she is Chair of the FIRST Robotics Chesapeake board of directors for VA/MD/DC and Chair of the Southern Gas Association Board of Directors.
Neller earned her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Virginia Tech and her MBA from the College of William and Mary.
Panelist
Sam Trowbridge
Client Relations, SGC Surveying
2025 SGA Chair's Rising Leader
Samantha Trowbridge has 10 years of experience managing GIS resources. She currently specializes in client relations, data conversion, data management and design development. Her focus is finding new ways to utilizing GIS. Samantha started in Emergency Response, which is near and dear to her heart, as she worked for the Louisiana Army National Guard in creating and implementing Statewide GIS emergency strategies and initiatives. She has pushed creating, tracking and implementing GIS initiatives within Natural Gas such as Pipelines Progress Tracking Effort Development. Enabling field data to be tracked in near-real time. Field inspection filled out the same information as the paper documents, in turn allowing for the exact replication of client-provided reporting. Creating project tracking dashboards, allowing progress to be centrally tracked for all stakeholders. Samantha has not forgotten how she started and has encouraged the use of GIS for creating safety automations for submission, tracking and reporting. Samantha is involved with CNGC, SGA, NAWIC, Women in Pipeline and YPP.
Panelist
Brandi Price
Vice President of Public Affairs, Atmos Energy
Brandi Price is the Vice President of Public Affairs for Atmos Energy West Texas Division. She began her career at the Hearst Corporation in Midland, Texas in the newspaper division. After 18 years and many roles held for the Hearst Corporation, she retired and began her journey with Atmos Energy. She has been with Atmos Energy for 13 years serving as a conduit between Atmos Energy and its customers, regulators, and the public.
Brandi has served on many industry committees in various leadership capacities including the Texas Gas Association, Southern Gas Association, American Gas Association and others. Brandi is a graduate of the Leadership Odessa, Midland and Lubbock programs, as well as Leadership Texas. Brandi currently serves on and chairs various boards and committees throughout the communities in the Atmos footprint. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Texas El Paso. She is married to Daniel, has 4 beautiful children and one perfect grandson.
Event Summary
Training Programs are essential to the success of a Control Room Management. This webinar will focus on developing a training program. It will include information for new Controllers and continued training with an additional focus on fatigue and AOCs. Focus will placed on the written training plan and annual reviews to test the effectiveness.
Attendees will receive 2 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@sganaturalgas.org.
Learning Objectives
During this webinar, participants will learn what is required for a Controller training program, best practices for implementation, and how to measure the program’s effectiveness.
Agenda
- Training Program
- Regulations
- Questions
- New Controller Curriculum
- OJTs—how to document, what should be included
- Additional training
- OQ
- Ongoing Training
- Lessons Learned
- Fatigue (elements, annual, periodic)
- MOCs—are they training?
- Simulator or tabletop training
- Leadership Training
- For those who have been in controller roles previously or who are new to leadership role
- Training Review
- Effectiveness
Target Audience
Gas Control personnel, learning and development personnel, training personnel, regulatory groups
Meet the Instructor
Vickie Cain
Regulatory Compliance Specialist Staff, PHMSA Compliance, Oil & Gas | Williams
With over 25 years of experience in the energy sector, Vickie is a Regulatory Compliance Specialist at Williams, a leading natural gas infrastructure company. In this role, she focuses on PHMSA Control Room Management, ensuring compliance with federal regulations related to pipeline safety and operations. She also has extensive experience in procedure development, maintaining and updating policies and manuals for the pipeline control team. Prior to this position, Vickie served as Manager of Pipeline Control, overseeing daily operations and system performance.
Meet the Instructor
Trish Thomason
Regional Director, Sr. Regulatory Consultant | Integrity Solutions, Ltd.
Trish has over 25 years of experience in the Oil and Gas industry, working with operators across the United States and internationally. With deep expertise in regulatory compliance and operational assessments, she specializes in a wide range of services including program assessments (both onsite and offsite), mock audits, effectiveness evaluations, audit preparation and support, and accident/incident response.
Through her company, Trish provides customized training and consulting services focused on key industry programs such as Design and Construction, Control Room Management, Integrity Management, Operator Qualification, and Emergency Response. Her work also covers areas like Leak Detection, Damage Prevention, Corrosion Control, Public Awareness, Health and Safety, Coast Guard compliance, Oil Spill Response Planning, and environmental programs such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and Wastewater Treatment.
Trish is dedicated to helping organizations prepare for audits, improve program effectiveness, and maintain strong regulatory compliance across all aspects of their operations.
Event Overview
Unlock the full potential of your diaphragm and rotary meters with this essential training session. Learn how proper installation, routine maintenance, and smart troubleshooting can significantly improve the safety, precision, and lifespan of your measurement equipment. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to sharpen your skills, this course delivers practical, easy-to-apply techniques that ensure your meters perform at their best—every time.
Attendees will receive .75 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@sganaturalgas.org
Objectives
- Learn how to properly install utility meters
- Gain practical skills for maintaining meters
- Understand how meters function in ensuring accurate customer billing
Meet the Instructor
Daniel Cangany
Product Specialist (Rotary/Turbine Meters & Transfer Provers)
TMCO, The Measurement Company
Daniel Cangany is the FMG Gas Meter and TMCO Prover Product Specialist for TMCO/FMG. He has been with TMCO since June of 2023. Daniel started his natural gas career with FMG in 2018 as a Rotary Technician. His background comes from Subsea Technologies where he obtained a Certified Quality Inspector certification from the American Society for Quality in 2013.
Event Summary
A two-hour course on the basics of mechanical seal technologies and ways to enhance their life in service. Emphasis will be placed on pipeline pump operation for maximum seal life.
Attendees will receive 2 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@sganaturalgas.org.
Course Objectives
Equip operators, mechanics, reliability engineers, maintenance and operations supervisors with the knowledge of how seals work and what they need in the way of an environment to give the longest life in service and fewest repairs. The focus will be wet seals and technologies that may enhance wet seal reliability.
Who Should Attend
- Operators
- Mechanics
- Reliability Engineers
- Maintenance
- Operations Supervisors
Meet Your Instructor
John Merrill
Principal Engineer, EagleBurgmann
John Merrill is a principal engineer at EagleBurgmann. He received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Tulsa and MSME from Western Michigan University. Mr. Merrill has worked in the rotating equipment industry since 1991 and is an active member of the Hydraulic Institute and the API 682 task force.
Event Summary
This course introduces the core principles of geospatial analytics in a clear, accessible way for those new to the field—then takes a deeper dive into real-world lessons learned from local distribution companies (LDCs) that have successfully implemented this approach across multiple states and internationally. Far from a simple “plug-and-play” solution, this methodology demands a strategic shift—challenging conventional workflows and driving meaningful change in operational practices.
Attendees will receive 1.5 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@sganaturalgas.org
Key Takeaways from This Course
- Build a Strong Foundation: Develop a solid understanding of geospatial analytics and how it’s used to detect and measure low-level methane emissions in gas distribution networks.
- Implement with Confidence: Discover the essential success factors for deploying satellite-based geospatial tools effectively and consistently.
- Avoid Common Pitfalls: Learn from real-world missteps to ensure a smoother, smarter implementation of this innovative technology.
Target Audience
This course will be geared for LDAR technicians, LDAR supervisors, and asset managers unfamiliar with the application of satellite-based geospatial analytics to methane emissions measurement.
Meet the Instructor
Sean Donegan
President & Chief Executive Officer, Satelytics
Sean Donegan is the President and CEO of Satelytics. He brings over thirty years of technology and software development experience to the company. A dynamic leader, Sean’s career has been focused on building companies through creativity and innovation, recruiting highly effective teams to solve customers’ toughest challenges. Sean founded or owned four successful software companies, most recently Sean Allen LLC which was focused on predictive analytics in the oil & gas marketplace.
With his energetic leadership style, Sean has always believed in building talented teams whose members are laser-focused on problem-solving, results, and financial objectives. These qualities were illustrated during his 15-year tenure as CEO of Westbrook Technologies, Inc. where he transformed a failing enterprise into a highly profitable document management software global leader with customers in 52 countries. Sean earned an undergraduate degree from the University of London and a postgraduate professional qualification from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. Sean lives in Hunting Valley, Ohio.
Event Overview
In the next decade, larger and more efficient CO2 machinery will be needed to meet evolving global market needs. With renewable power’s build-out, ironically, the United States continues to utilize more natural gas for power generation, for both baseload and for peaking power, due to its reliability and fast response time of gas turbine generators. The rapid expansion of AI data centers has also translated into more reliance on dedicated natural gas-fired power and natural gas pipelines. Hence, eventually, CO2 capture for gas-fired power will be needed to decarbonize the power generation sector. Other key CO2 capture market segments also include industrial iron and steel manufacturing, cement plants, iron and steel and natural gas processing.
The search for non-fossil fuel-based peaking power to fill the projected utility grid gaps remains challenging, since battery technology is limited in duration while other energy storage is less proven, not readily deployable and physically challenging (compressed air/hydro). Thermal energy storage concepts appear to be the leading backup power concept with well-proven technology and longer duration energy storage. Pilot plants are underway to prove out thermal energy storage as an alternative to batteries and hydrogen.
As the world aims to decarbonize key industries, CO2 machinery innovation will play a key part in contributing to improving the economics of carbon capture, reuse and/or sequestration/storage. Capturing CO2 can be achieved through various processes, including cryogenic CO2 removal, membrane-based, and advanced solvents/sorbents, which may offer other routes to storage and sequestration. Avoiding or limiting new pipeline construction and permitting is also a tactic by many U.S.-based Gulf Coast CO2 project operators, as this may help to minimize costs if injection wells can be located closer to capture sites. Repurposed pipelines operating below the super-critical pressure are one option for lowering CCS costs. Other CCS strategies include exhaust gas recirculation, liquefaction of CO2, and beneficial reuse of CO2 as fuel (such as methanol).
Attendees will receive 2 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@sganaturalgas.org
Class Objectives
- Review the changing landscape of US natural gas markets and options for non-fossil fuel-based energy storage technologies.
- Explore some of the recent trends in finding more cost-effective means of accomplishing carbon capture, compression and sequestration.
- Highlight CO2 compressor and options for pipeline transport (super-critical or lower pressure gaseous phase), ship/vessel transport (CO2 as a liquid) and sequestration.
Instructor
Marybeth McBain
Product Line Manager, New Apparatus, Global Sales, EBARA ELLIOTT ENERGY
Marybeth McBain represents Elliott Group as a Product Line Manager for Elliott’s centrifugal compressor line. Covering new sales globally, this role manages LNG compressors, pipeline transport, downstream / refinery compressors and hydrogen and CO2 applications, as well as axial compressors, cryogenic pumps and steam turbines in this region. Previously, Marybeth worked at Kinder Morgan previously evaluating new compression for gas transmission / storage projects and recommending upgrades and compressor modifications for KM’s midstream systems. Mrs. McBain also worked at Southwest Research Institute for ten years in the pulsation analysis and turbomachinery groups where she developed four patents related to innovative pulsation control concepts. Her career is supported by a BSME from the University of Texas at Austin and an MSME from Georgia Tech.
Instructor
Derrick Bauer
Manager of Materials Engineering Department, Elliott Company
Mr. Bauer is the Manager of the Materials Engineering Department at Elliott Group which supports development of materials and associated fabrication processes for their turbomachinery product lines. His prior experience within the department includes materials lab operations, production assistance and aftermarket support including remaining life assessment testing on steam turbines and FCC Hot Gas Expanders. He has authored articles for the Turbomachinery Symposiums and for the Gulf South Rotating Machinery Symposiums. Derrick holds an MS in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh. He is an active member of ASM and NACE.
Instructor
Christopher Campos
Product Line Manager, Marine Segment & Cryodynamics Products
Christopher Campos is the Product Line Manager for Ebara Elliott Energy for Cryogenic Equipment and Marine Applications. In his most recent role, Chris has served as the Area Sales Manager by working with existing and potential clients on equipment applications, solutions, maintainability and reliability concerns. He has worked almost 20 years for Ebara Elliott Energy, in which 15 years was in Asia Pacific & China Region. His education includes a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and an MBA from the University of Nevada, Reno. Chris has taught college courses in business, computer science and mathematics in the past. In his time off, you will find Chris at sporting events, traveling or just enjoying some local cuisine.
Designing a distraction-free workspace is crucial for boosting focus and productivity. By addressing common distractions and customizing your environment, you can work more effectively. Here are some key takeaways:
Identify your distractions. Determine what disrupts your focus in your workspace.
Declutter regularly. Keep your workspace tidy to enhance concentration.
Limit tech interruptions. Control notifications and block distracting websites.
Communicate your needs. Share workspace challenges with your manager to find solutions.
With these strategies, you can create a workspace that supports your productivity and focus.
Event Summary:
SGA is pleased to announce that our annual meeting will be held virtually on April 30th from 10 to 11:00 a.m. CT. SGA encourages you to attend this important meeting, at which we will provide annual reports on membership, training and committees.
Meet Your Speakers
Suzanne Ogle
President & CEO
Southern Gas Association
Suzanne Ogle is a nationally recognized leader in the energy sector, serving as President and CEO of the SGA Natural Gas Association and President of the Gas Machinery Research Council. Known for her visionary leadership and servant heart, Suzanne is a passionate advocate for energy reliability, natural gas innovation, and the people behind the pipeline.
Her career spans boardrooms and breakout sessions, where she’s redefined what it means to convene, train, and advance a modern energy workforce. Under her leadership, SGA has evolved into North America’s premier training hub and industry connector — without ever losing sight of its founding purpose: to serve its members and strengthen the industry.
Suzanne brings data, heart, and humor to every conversation — and her message is always clear: when we lead with values, we build a stronger energy future.
Cristie Neller
SGA Board Chair
Vice President of Administrative Services, BHE GT&S
Cristie D. Neller is vice president Administrative Services for Berkshire Hathaway Energy Gas Transmission and Storage.
She is responsible for business related services in support of the BHE GT&S team, an integrated interstate gas transmission and storage company across the East Coast, as well as supporting the broader Berkshire Hathaway Energy Business Transformation efforts.
Beginning as a co-op/intern at Virginia Power, she continued her early career at Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corp. in Houston, Tx and in Charlottesville, Va. She joined Dominion Energy in 1998, advancing through progressive leadership positions across the power generation sector in operations and engineering, all while earning her Six Sigma Black Belt from the Six Sigma Academy. In 2009, she became station director at Clover Power Station, where the team achieved recognition as top midsized coal generating facility in North America.
She was promoted to vice president Eastern Pipeline Engineering & Construction in November 2014, overseeing Dominion Energy’s Gas Transmission Engineering and Construction organization. Her leadership guided technical services and capital construction, supporting the growth and maintenance of gas transmission pipelines and storage assets along the East Coast during a period of transition for natural gas infrastructure. She later became vice president of Western Pipeline Operations in October 2019, leading the team providing natural gas transportation and underground storage services in Utah, Wyoming and Colorado.
In November 2020, she joined BHE GT&S as VP Administrative Services responsible for HR, IT, Supply Chain Fleet and Facility services, as well as leading Business Transformation efforts for BHE GT&S. She now also serves as part of the broader Berkshire Hathaway Energy business transformation leadership team.
She has served on Christopher Newport University Business School’s Board of Advisors, the Southern Gas Association Executive Council and the Utah Community Investment Board. She has previously chaired the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America’s Pipeline Safety Committee and Underground Storage Committee. Currently, she is Chair of the FIRST Robotics Chesapeake board of directors for VA/MD/DC and Chair of the Southern Gas Association Board of Directors.
Neller earned her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Virginia Tech and her MBA from the College of William and Mary.
Event Summary
Join us for an inspiring session as Cristie Neller, SGA Board Chair & Vice President of Administrative Services at BHE GT&S, unveils her 2025 Chair’s Theme: “Uniting for a Reliable Energy Future.”
In a time of rapid change and evolving energy needs, collaboration is more critical than ever. Cristie will share her vision for how we, as an industry, can work together to strengthen reliability, foster innovation, and drive a sustainable future. This is more than just a theme—it’s a call to action for leaders, companies, and communities to come together and shape the future of energy.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights, be inspired, and connect with fellow industry professionals who share a commitment to a stronger, more reliable energy future.
Who Should Attend
- Open to the public.
Speaker
Cristie Neller
SGA Board Chair
Vice President of Administrative Services, BHE GT&S
Cristie D. Neller is vice president Administrative Services for Berkshire Hathaway Energy Gas Transmission and Storage.
She is responsible for business related services in support of the BHE GT&S team, an integrated interstate gas transmission and storage company across the East Coast, as well as supporting the broader Berkshire Hathaway Energy Business Transformation efforts.
Beginning as a co-op/intern at Virginia Power, she continued her early career at Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corp. in Houston, Tx and in Charlottesville, Va. She joined Dominion Energy in 1998, advancing through progressive leadership positions across the power generation sector in operations and engineering, all while earning her Six Sigma Black Belt from the Six Sigma Academy. In 2009, she became station director at Clover Power Station, where the team achieved recognition as top midsized coal generating facility in North America.
She was promoted to vice president Eastern Pipeline Engineering & Construction in November 2014, overseeing Dominion Energy’s Gas Transmission Engineering and Construction organization. Her leadership guided technical services and capital construction, supporting the growth and maintenance of gas transmission pipelines and storage assets along the East Coast during a period of transition for natural gas infrastructure. She later became vice president of Western Pipeline Operations in October 2019, leading the team providing natural gas transportation and underground storage services in Utah, Wyoming and Colorado.
In November 2020, she joined BHE GT&S as VP Administrative Services responsible for HR, IT, Supply Chain Fleet and Facility services, as well as leading Business Transformation efforts for BHE GT&S. She now also serves as part of the broader Berkshire Hathaway Energy business transformation leadership team.
She has served on Christopher Newport University Business School’s Board of Advisors, the Southern Gas Association Executive Council and the Utah Community Investment Board. She has previously chaired the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America’s Pipeline Safety Committee and Underground Storage Committee. Currently, she is Chair of the FIRST Robotics Chesapeake board of directors for VA/MD/DC and Chair of the Southern Gas Association Board of Directors.
Neller earned her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Virginia Tech and her MBA from the College of William and Mary.
Moderator
Suzanne Ogle
President & CEO, Southern Gas Association
Suzanne Ogle is the CEO of Southern Gas Association, one of the leading Natural Gas Associations in North America. Her expertise as a seasoned executive in sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has been featured in the New York Times, Forbes, NBC, CBS, ABC Networks, Success Magazine, Energy Central, Oil & Gas News and more. Ogle’s insights regularly shape conversations within the energy sector and beyond and boasts more than two decades of experience at the forefront of social and business transformation.
As one of the leading women CEOs in the energy space, Suzanne fosters a culture of open dialogue and practical problem-solving, eschewing blame in favor of collaborative solutions. She champions the importance of understanding the intricacies of the energy landscape, recognizing its pivotal role in powering grid reliability and fostering resilient energy solutions. This includes being an advocate of renewable energies in what she refers to as the “Natural Advantage” strategy, realizing that natural gas, wind, solar, nuclear, and hydro all work together towards America’s Energy 2050 plan. She outlined these plans in her popular white paper “Grit for The Grid: Power and Progress for 2050, Fostering Energy System Resilience, A Sensible Energy Policy, and Successful Energy Evolution”. A highly regarded expert on leadership and energy, she is a sought-after speaker whose expertise has been showcased at popular industry events around the globe.
Committed to shaping a future of attainable and sustainable domestic energy resources, regulations, and policy, Suzanne Ogle continues to be a driving force in the energy sector, advocating for pragmatic, lasting change.
The Future of Natural Gas is Here – And It’s Yours to Shape! Advancing SGA’s Commitment to Members.
You’ve heard the buzz—now it’s time to be part of the movement. SGA Natural Gas Association is more than a name; it’s a step forward for the entire natural gas industry, from the West Coast to the East Coast, Canada to Mexico.
Missed the big reveal? Now’s your chance to get the inside scoop! Join us for an exclusive virtual experience where we’ll explore:
- What this refresh means for YOU – no matter where you are in North America
- New opportunities to connect, learn, and lead in the industry
- How SGA is evolving to meet the future of natural gas
Be part of the conversation, shape the future, and claim your seat at the table!
Choose a Session That Works for You:
- April 14, 2025: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM CST
- April 30, 2025: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM CST
- May 12, 2025: 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM CST
Don’t sit this one out—be part of the next chapter in natural gas leadership!
Speaker
Suzanne Ogle
President & CEO, SGA Natural Gas Association
Suzanne Ogle is a nationally recognized leader in the energy sector, serving as President and CEO of the SGA Natural Gas Association and President of the Gas Machinery Research Council. Known for her visionary leadership and servant heart, Suzanne is a passionate advocate for energy reliability, natural gas innovation, and the people behind the pipeline.
Her career spans boardrooms and breakout sessions, where she’s redefined what it means to convene, train, and advance a modern energy workforce. Under her leadership, SGA has evolved into North America’s premier training hub and industry connector — without ever losing sight of its founding purpose: to serve its members and strengthen the industry.
Suzanne brings data, heart, and humor to every conversation — and her message is always clear: when we lead with values, we build a stronger energy future.
Event Summary
With a large number of LNG peakshaver facilities reaching their 50th year in service and with natural gas peakshaving operations remaining an essential component in natural gas distribution operations, many facilities are facing replacement projects. This course will provide an overview of replacement and upgrade projects being performed by LNG peakshaver facilities. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of when and why projects are being performed, pre-upgrade stop gaps that can be performed before a full replacement is needed, and lessons learned when planning for and executing these projects.
Types of replacement projects that will be discussed include LNG Tanks, Control buildings, Boiloff Gas Compressors, Vaporizers, and Liquefiers.
Attendees will receive 1.5 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@sganaturalgas.org
Target Audience
LNG facility owners and operators
Instructor
Alexis Porter, P.E.
Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer, CH-IV
Alexis is a licensed Instrumentation and Control Systems Professional Engineer with over 10 years of industrial experience in engineering design, project management and project execution. She has specialized in the oil and gas sector, providing consulting engineering services to various clients. She also has extensive experience as an Owner in Downstream Refining.
Cathodic Protection, commonly referred to as CP, is one of the most effective methods for mitigating corrosion attacking your most valuable assets. This half-day session is divided into three sessions that will introduce you to the fundamentals of CP, explain what the regulations require of your CP system, and provide an example of how CP is applied to storage wells.
Attendees will receive 3 Professional Development Hours (PDH) and a Level 2 Natural Gas Industry Cathodic Protection Specialist digital, Credly badge upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@southerngas.org
Part 1: Introduction to Corrosion and Cathodic Protection
This session will establish the definition of corrosion as the “Electrochemical Cell” while focusing on cathodic protection as a practical tool for corrosion mitigation. Understanding the “problem” is critical to resolving that problem. A clear understanding of the “Electrochemical Cell” allows for the design of a safe and effective cathodic protection system to mitigate corrosion of critical assets. This session involves a high-level look at the science of corrosion while recognizing best practices associated with the application of cathodic protection to industrial assets.
Part 2: Regulatory Requirements for Corrosion Control
This session is a review of the federal codes and their relationship with various state and local codes addressing corrosion and corrosion control associated with gas pipelines, liquefied natural gas facilities, hazardous liquids pipelines, UST’s, and AST’s. The CP technician should have a clear understanding of where to locate these codes, key distinctions between them, as well as the applicability of the various codes to assets under his control. This session will provide an overview of federal corrosion control requirements and demonstrate free web-based tools that enable operators to find the latest rulings that apply to their assets.
Part 3: Cathodic Protection for Production and Storage Well Casings
Advancements in horizontal drilling technology and hydraulic fracturing have produced an explosion in the number of active natural gas wells in the United States. Increases in supply and demand for natural gas have also increased dramatically the need for high-pressure gas storage. As gas production and storage wells grow in number, the threat of well casing failures causing environmental damage increases every year. External well casing failures as a result of accelerated corrosion can lead to costly repairs or even well abandonment. External well casing corrosion can be safely and practically mitigated with the proper application of cathodic protection. This presentation will include best practices for well casing cathodic protection design, installation, and monitoring as a means to reduce the risk of failure and reduce the ongoing cost of preventable well casing repairs.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
- Know electrochemical cell corrosion definitions and cathodic protection as a practical tool for corrosion mitigation.
- Understand electrochemical cell to allow for safe design and effective cathodic protection.
- Utilize best practices to mitigate corrosion.
- Familiarize with federal codes, regulatory corrosion control requirements, and web-based tools to find current rulings.
- Mitigate external well casing failures through design, installation, and monitoring.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
- Pipeline Integrity and Engineers and Managers
- Corrosion Managers and Engineers
- Design and Construction Engineers
- Compliance Managers
Event Summary
The program will review how the TPAA came together, how we extend 811 messaging throughout all 254 counties in Texas and the current state of Texas growth that is causing a burden on assets.
Attendees will receive 1.5 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion.
Course Objectives
- What the TPAA is doing
- How the TPAA can further your program
- Texas organization for Texas only
Who Should Attend
Texas Natural Gas providers (distribution and transmission)
Meet Your Instructor
Deirdre Rose Goggins
Deirdre Rose Goggins joined Texas Gas Service as a legal assistant in 2013. Since 2015, she has served as a Public Awareness Specialist and 3rd Party Damage Reporting. To advance Public Awareness and safety, Deirdre served on the Damage Prevention Council Board of Texas, the second largest damage prevention council in the United States with 26 chapters in Texas. She is active in the Central Texas Damage Prevention Chapter, has served as chairman, and is instrumental in bringing Natural Gas education to excavators through the chapter’s safety education events and programs. In addition, Deirdre is active in Natural Gas education for children through the local Boys & Girls Clubs, 4H and school district education opportunities. She serves on the Texas Pipeline Alliance Association steering committee.
Deirdre holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication and a Master’s in Science for Management and Leadership.
Work history includes over 25 years in law firm and consulting houses’ operations and administration.
This workshop explains the working principles and components of centrifugal compressors and industrial gas turbines used in the oil and gas industry. Performance characteristics of compressors and their drivers are explained. The application of these machines in different oil and gas applications is discussed. Finally, issues of packaging, seals, fuel and air, testing and condition monitoring are addressed.
Attendees will receive 8 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@southerngas.org
Topics Covered
- Components of Gas Compressors
- Gas Compression and Aerodynamics
- Components and Thermodynamics of Gas Turbines
- Controls
- Applications
- Maintenance: Fuel And Air
- Hydrogen, CO2 and LNG
- Testing
Learning Objectives
- Learn the components of centrifugal compressors and industrial gas turbines
- Understand their working principles and applications
- Understand their performance characteristics
- Understand key maintenance issues
Who Should Attend
- New Engineers who want to learn to understand Turbomachinery
- Experienced Engineers in the industry who want to refresh their knowledge
Instructors
Rainer Kurz, PhD.
Principal, RKSBenergy LLC
Dr. Rainer Kurz retired this year as the Manager, Gas Compressor Engineering, Solar Turbines Incorporated, with responsibilities for the design, research and development of Solar’s Centrifugal Gas Compressors. He is now the Principal of RKSBenergy LLC, as well as an Adj. Professor at San Diego State University. Dr. Kurz attended the Universität der Bundeswehr in Hamburg, Germany, where he received the degree of a Dr.-Ing. in 1991. He has authored numerous publications about turbomachinery related topics, is an ASME fellow, a member of the GMRC Board, and a member of the Turbomachinery Symposium Advisory Committee. He also won the ASME Industrial Gas Turbine Award in 2013.
Avneet Singh
Manager, Systems Analysis & Field Test, Solar Turbines Incorporated | A Caterpillar Company
Avneet Singh is the Manager of Systems Analysis and Field Testing at Solar Turbines Incorporated, in San Diego, California. Mr. Singh joined Solar in 2008 after graduating from University of California, San Diego with a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He has held roles in gas compressor development test, gas compressor aerodynamic design and performance, customer services and project application engineering. His current organization is responsible for predicting compressor and gas turbine performance, for conducting application studies, pipeline hydraulic simulations and for field performance testing in various oil and gas applications.
Do you need to understand income-qualified customers to guide marketing or increase participation in your affordability programs? How are you reaching underserved communities that haven’t participated before? Utilities can better connect with these customers by using data science for targeted engagement.
This session will provide an overview of predictive analytics, data science, and customer program design. We’ll conclude with breakout groups to develop actionable frameworks you can apply within your organization to drive positive change.
Attendees will receive 1 Professional Development Hour (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@southerngas.org
Course Objectives
- Understand the fundamentals of predictive analytics
- Discover how data science can improve programs for low- and moderate-income and at-risk customers.
- Identify program design gaps and learn how data science can address them
Target Audience
- Low-income Program Managers
- Billing and Customer Care Team Members
Instructors
Devon Grodkiewicz
Data Science Solutions Advisor, E Source
Devon joined E Source in 2022 as a Data Science Solutions Advisor, promoting data science through webinars, blogs, podcasts, and conferences. He helps utilities tackle challenges and improve operations using E Source’s data science solutions. Before E Source, Devon launched and sold a technology startup out of Northeastern University, where he earned a BS in environmental science with a focus on geospatial data science.
Bob Cooke
Executive Consultant, E Source
Bob is an executive consultant at E Source specializing in customer interaction and Meter-to-Cash operations, including contact centers, credit and collections, digital/self-service channels, billing, and payments. Recently, he’s focused on reducing arrears through targeted communications and treatment programs, supporting low-income assistance, and leading the transition to a unified customer self-service platform.
Face it, no organization operates within a silo. In a dependency-driven interconnected world, organizations need to have strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and other third-parties to ensure long-lasting success but when it comes to cybersecurity risk management, most organizations only look within. Whether you’re a cybersecurity professional, a supply chain manager, or a business leader responsible for risk management, this session offers valuable insights and actionable strategies for strengthening your organization’s cybersecurity posture in an interconnected world. Join us as we explore the critical role of Cyber TPRM in safeguarding against supply chain cyber threats and preserving business continuity and trust.
Attendees will receive 1 Professional Development Hour (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@southerngas.org.
Meet Your Instructor
Brian Tooley
Lead Cybersecurity Analyst, CenterPoint Energy
Brian Tooley is a seasoned cybersecurity expert with a focus on third-party risk management. With six years of service at CenterPoint Energy and nine years in the gas utility industry, Brian has a wealth of experience in safeguarding critical infrastructure. In his current role as Lead Cybersecurity Analyst, which he has held for two years, Brian has successfully established and led two cybersecurity third-party risk management programs, demonstrating his commitment to operational excellence and proactive risk mitigation. His expertise and leadership in this field make him a valuable contributor to discussions on cybersecurity in the energy sector.
This is a comprehensive course designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate human-related risks in cybersecurity. Through interactive sessions and real-world examples, attendees will learn effective strategies for enhancing security awareness, fostering a security-conscious culture, and implementing best practices to protect against social engineering attacks and other human-centric threats.
Attendees will receive 1.5 Professional Development Hours (PDH) upon completion. Please submit your request to learn@southerngas.org
Learning Objectives
- Identify and Recognize Phishing Attempts – Goal: Participants will be able to identify common characteristics of phishing emails and understand the tactics used by attackers to deceive users.
- Implement Strong Password Practices – Goal: Participants will learn the importance of creating and maintaining strong passwords, as well as the risks associated with weak passwords.
- Respond Effectively to Social Engineering Attacks – Goal: Participants will understand the various forms of social engineering attacks and the psychological manipulation techniques used by attackers.
- Understand the Types of Insider Threats – Goal: Participants will learn about the different types of insider threats, including unintentional and malicious insiders.
Target Audience
- HR and Training Managers:
- Professionals responsible for employee training and development, particularly in security awareness.
- Those looking to implement effective security awareness programs and foster a security-conscious culture.
- Business Leaders and Executives:
- Decision-makers need to understand the importance of addressing human vulnerabilities to protect their organizations.
- Those interested in strategic approaches to cybersecurity that include human factors.
- General Employees:
- Staff members at all levels who need to be aware of security best practices and how to protect themselves and their organization from cyber threats.
- Those who will benefit from understanding their role in maintaining a secure environment.
Akolly Dogbe
Founder and CEO, IAD Security Solutions
Mr. Akolly Dogbe is a seasoned cyber security analyst with extensive experience in safeguarding critical infrastructure. Holding a bachelor’s degree in information systems security and a master’s degree in cyber operations, Akolly has earned high-end certifications such as CISSP, CISM, GPEN, Pentest+ and CEH. With a proven track record working with the Department of Defense (DoD), Akolly has deep expertise in implementing and managing security frameworks like ISO/IEC 27001 and 27002, NIST 800, and COBIT.
As the founder and CEO of IAD Security Solutions, Akolly leads a team of dedicated professionals in delivering comprehensive security solutions and training to diverse clients. Under Akolly’s leadership, the company has successfully ensured compliance with regulations such as GDPR, PCI-DSS, SOX, and HIPAA. Akolly is adept at using RSA Archer and other GRC tools to enhance organizational security postures.
Akolly has demonstrated exceptional leadership in various high-stakes environments, including overseeing large-scale security projects for critical infrastructure and guiding organizations through complex security challenges. Akolly is known for fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that their team stays ahead of evolving cyber threats.
Currently, Akolly is providing security awareness training and penetration testing services to stakeholders at several companies, utilizing innovative methods such as cyber security escape rooms to engage and educate participants. Akolly’s commitment to staying ahead of evolving cyber threats makes him a trusted advisor in the field of cyber security.