Upon Further Inspection

CorrSolutions & Inspectioneering

Upon Further Inspection, the mechanical integrity podcast, uses engaging interviews to celebrate the people, stories, and real-world industrial reliability experiences.   Every episode explores topics that matter most to professionals in oil & gas, refining, petrochemical, and other process industries. Through in-depth conversations with industry experts, we discuss themes like continuous improvement, safety, technology advancements, compliance, risk-based inspection, and professional growth. 

  1. From Boilermaker to Expert (featuring Mark Bell)

    2D AGO

    From Boilermaker to Expert (featuring Mark Bell)

    In this episode we welcome Mark Bell, a semi-retired fixed equipment consultant to the podcast. The animated discussion between Greg, Branden, and Mark provide a practical, experience-based look at how great inspectors are developed and how inspection quality is improved over time. Mark’s key takeaway is that effective mechanical integrity depends less on “having certifications” or flashy NDE outputs and more on disciplined learning, sound decision-making, qualified people, and repeatable data—especially for something as basic as UT thickness readings. He explains how mentorship, clear procedures, verification/testing of technician capability, and consistent practices (including global standardization and technical networks) can dramatically raise both the quality and usefulness of inspection data, helping plants move away from “hope is not a plan” toward reliable, trendable integrity decisions. 01:36 From Boilermaker to Inspector 05:16 Mentorship and Learning Culture 07:01 Decision Making as Inspector 08:37 Early NDE Tools and RT Focus 12:27 Picking Locations and Intervals 14:00 Three Wise Men Document 17:58 School and Career Motivation 21:13 API 510 Origins and First Test 23:21 Certifications Change the Role 24:34 Certs Versus Competence 25:45 Early Welding and NDE Exams 27:42 Spotting Fake Credentials 29:37 NDE Tech Evolution 32:07 PAUT Versus TOFD 35:20 Explaining Results to Management 36:30 Qualification and Performance Testing 38:45 Better Thickness Data 42:24 CML Trending Strategy 44:26 Using All the Data 46:18 Averaging to Reduce Error 49:57 Global Best Practices at Shell 54:26 Tech Networks and Productivity   Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations API 510 – Pressure Vessel Inspection Code API 570 – Piping Inspection Code & Inspector Certification API 571 – Damage Mechanisms Affecting Fixed Equipment API 653 – Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, & Reconstruction CML – Corrosion Monitoring Locations CWI – Certified welding inspector EP – Engineering practice EPRI – Electric Power Research Institute IDMS – Inspection Data Management Systems MFE – Multi-flow Evaluator NDE – Non-Destructive Evaluation PAUT – Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing RT – Radiographic Testing SFI – Slurry fracture injection TML – Thickness Monitoring Locations TOFD – Time of Flight Diffraction Technique UT – Ultrasonic Testing  Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    57 min

  2. MAR 27

    Codes, Committees, and Critical Thinking (featuring Brent Ray)

    In part 2 of our conversation with Brent Ray, we take a deeper look at his extensive work with industry codes and standards through API, ASME, and NBIC. Brent reflects on how reviewing a marked up draft of API 571 in 2003 helped launch a path that later included chairing API 581, API 580, the Subcommittee on Inspection and Mechanical Integrity, and the API Inspection Summit. Throughout the discussion, he discusses the challenge of writing standards that are both technically sound and accessible, and offers advice to young engineers trying to make sense of complex and overlapping guidance. Brent also gives listeners an inside look at the 10th API Inspection Summit coming to San Antonio in July 2026, including new divisions, expanded training, a charity golf tournament, and the much-anticipated “Gray Beards” panel. He shares candid career wisdom on navigating emerging standards like ASME Section 5 Subsection C, the challenge of bridging NBIC and fitness-for-service communities, and what he hopes his legacy will be: the engineer’s engineer. Whether you are active in codes and standards work, preparing to attend your first API Inspection Summit, or simply looking to strengthen your technical foundation, Brent's perspective offers valuable lessons on leadership, communication, and what it means to serve the broader industry. Subscribe today so you don't miss our next episode! 00:00  Introduction and API engagement origins00:49  Brent’s early history with codes and standards02:55  First API meeting experience 05:39  Chairing API 581 and saving it from sunset07:07  ASME PCC involvement and API subcommittee leadership07:50  API Inspection Summit chair role and cross-industry communication10:35  NBIC, state boiler inspectors, and the evolving role of fitness for service13:52  ASME Section 5 Subsection C — new in-service NDE rules explained18:38  Advice for young engineers navigating codes and standards22:27  Critical thinking, connecting the dots, and avoiding hasty conclusions25:19  Quick glossary: API 578, API 751, ASME PCC 1/2/3, PTB-229:36  API Inspection Summit 10th anniversary preview — San Antonio, July 202638:35  Career edification and taking one nugget a day from Summit41:15  Wildest process units: FCC catalyst and the Cuming unit explosion43:48  Career legacy — the engineer’s engineer45:36  Conclusion and podcast credits+++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AI — Artificial IntelligenceAMPP — Association for Materials Protection and PerformanceAPI — American Petroleum InstituteAPM — Asset Performance ManagementASME — American Society of Mechanical EngineersEAP — Enterprise Asset PerformanceFCC — Fluid Catalytic CrackingHF Alky — Hydrofluoric Acid AlkylationKPI — Key Performance IndicatorMI — Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    47 min
  3. Curiosity, Caves, and Carbon Steel (featuring Brent Ray)

    MAR 12

    Curiosity, Caves, and Carbon Steel (featuring Brent Ray)

    In part 1 of our interview with Brent Ray, Fixed Equipment & Mechanical Integrity Specialist at Marathon Petroleum, we explore the experiences and influences that helped shape his engineering perspective. After opening with a pair of gripping spelunking stories, Brent traces a career path guided by curiosity and opportunity—from studying materials science and chemical engineering to supervising melt operations and eventually joining Marathon in 2002 as a corrosion and metallurgical engineer. The conversation explores how his background in metallurgy gave him a fundamental understanding of why metals behave the way they do, and how that insight continues to guide his work addressing corrosion, damage mechanisms, and equipment reliability in refinery environments. We also discuss the importance of breaking down silos between fixed equipment, inspection, maintenance, operations, and tech service, and what it looks like when that culture of communication actually takes root. Whether you are early in your engineering career, managing a team of inspectors, or simply enjoy a good story about scrap metal and Levi’s rivets, Brent’s reflections offer thoughtful perspectives on curiosity, mentorship, and the importance of understanding how materials are actually made. 00:00  Introduction and Spelunking Stories08:02  Growing Up in West Virginia and University of Kentucky11:02  Career at Inco Alloys / Special Metals14:26  Enron’s Ripple Effect on American Industry19:28  Engineering Degrees and Mentor Dr. George Crew20:21  Lessons from the Steel Mill 23:05  The Levi’s Button Contamination Story27:32  How the Steel Mill Prepared Him for Refinery Work33:17  Transition from Steel Mill to Refinery / Joining Marathon39:21  Mindset Shift: Seeing Process from the Outside In41:13  Think Like an Inspector46:12  Critical Thinking, Curiosity, and Mentoring Young Engineers47:39  Breaking Down Silos 52:13  Cultural Shift: Communication, Adaptability, and the "Easy Button"56:30  Sense of Family at Marathon and in the Industry+++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations ASME - American Society of Mechanical EngineersASTM - American Society for Testing and MaterialsDRI - Direct Reduced IronFEMI - Fixed Equipment Mechanical IntegrityMI - Mechanical IntegrityMOC - Management of ChangeMT - Magnetic Particle TestingNDE - Nondestructive ExaminationPMI - Positive Material IdentificationPT - Liquid Penetrant TestingRBI - Risk-Based InspectionRCM - Reliability Centered MaintenanceRP - Recommended PracticeRT - Radiographic TestingSME - Subject Matter ExpertSOHIC - Stress Oriented Hydrogen Induced Cracking+++++++++++ Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    59 min
  4. Why Some RBI Programs Fail While Others Flourish

    FEB 26

    Why Some RBI Programs Fail While Others Flourish

    In this episode of Upon Further Inspection, we explore the most common missteps and best practices in RBI implementation, examining what separates programs that deliver lasting value from those that fall short. The discussion highlights the importance of defining clear goals before selecting technology, building a culture where risk-based language is spoken at every level of the organization, and avoiding tactical pitfalls around data inputs, corrosion circuit classification, and damage mechanism documentation. Whether you’re launching a new RBI program, troubleshooting an existing one, or looking to push a mature program to the next level, this episode offers valuable insights on mindset, cultural adoption, disciplined execution, and the emerging role of AI and enterprise data in unlocking even greater value from your inspection investment. 00:00  Introduction to RBI Implementation01:02  The Biggest Missteps: Wrong Motives and Poor Technology Selection04:54  What the Best Programs Do Right07:49  Cultural Buy-In: Speaking the Same Language Across the Organization13:12  Champions, Ownership, and People-Driven Success14:29  Tactical Pitfalls in RBI Implementation19:35  Profiles of Success and Crossing the Chasm24:44  The Next Frontier: AI, Machine Learning, and Enterprise Data28:04  Conclusion and Final Thoughts+++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AI – Artificial IntelligenceAPI – American Petroleum InstituteDMR – Damage Mechanisms ReviewFCC – Fluid Catalytic CrackingMI – Mechanical IntegrityNDE – Nondestructive ExaminationRBI – Risk-Based InspectionROI – Return on InvestmentRT – Radiographic TestingSME – Subject Matter ExpertSOHIC – Stress-Oriented Hydrogen Induced CrackingSRU – Sulfur Recovery UnitUT – Ultrasonic Testing+++++++++++ Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    29 min
  5. Metal Wants to Return to Its Simple Form (featuring Lionel Roberts)

    FEB 12

    Metal Wants to Return to Its Simple Form (featuring Lionel Roberts)

    In part 1 of our interview with Lionel Roberts, he reflects on his early career at Canadian refineries, where limited resources and mentorship pushed him to think creatively and build a strong professional network. The conversation delves into Lionel's experiences at independent refineries without access to major company resources, highlighting how he leveraged industry organizations like NACE (now AMPP) and API to build expertise. He discusses the critical role of codes and standards participation, not just for professional development but for gaining access to subject matter experts across the industry.  Lionel also addresses the evolution of the inspection profession, comparing NDE-background inspectors with engineer-trained inspectors, and the importance of critical thinking over task completion. He offers valuable advice for young professionals on patience, networking, and the "80/20 rule" - that knowing where (and who) to find answers is more important than having all the answers yourself. Whether you are a young engineer starting your career or a seasoned professional, Lionel’s insights on moving beyond "box-checking" to embrace critical thinking provide a roadmap for long-term success in the field. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:45 Lionel's Background in Metallurgy02:47 Journey into Mechanical Integrity05:11 The Role of AI and Experience in Metallurgy07:42 Early Career and Learning Experiences16:20 Challenges and Growth at Irving Oil19:55 Importance of Networking and Industry Participation27:36 Technical Discussions and Industry Standards34:53 Concluding Thoughts and Advice+++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AFPM - American Fuel & Petrochemical ManufacturersAI - Artificial IntelligenceAMPP - Association for Materials Protection and PerformanceAPI - American Petroleum InstituteCCD - Corrosion Control DocumentIOWs - Integrity Operating Windows JIP - Joint Industry ProjectNACE - National Association of Corrosion Engineers NDE - Non-Destructive ExaminationNHT - Naphtha HydrotreaterPMI - Positive Material IdentificationRBI - Risk-Based InspectionRT - Radiographic TestingSME - Subject Matter ExpertSTG - Specific Technology GroupTUNS - Technical University of Nova ScotiaUT - Ultrasonic Testing+++++++++++ Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    41 min
  6. Plans Are Worthless, but Planning Is Everything

    JAN 29

    Plans Are Worthless, but Planning Is Everything

    In this episode of Upon Further Inspection, we explore the challenges and best practices for optimizing enterprise asset management systems while maintaining high availability and safety performance. The discussion highlights the importance of designing digital frameworks around organizational needs, supported by strong processes such as RBI, root cause analysis, and MOC programs, along with clear communication.  Whether you're implementing a new enterprise system, struggling to optimize an existing one, or looking to improve cross-site reliability comparisons, this episode offers valuable insights on strategic planning, critical success variables, and the power of disciplined execution. 00:00 Introduction to Enterprise Asset Management01:14 Challenges in Optimizing Asset Management Systems02:47 Designing Effective Digital Systems03:55 Case Study: Refining Corporation's Journey05:22 Integration Complexities and Solutions07:30 Importance of Design and Planning08:44 Balancing Availability and Cost10:41 Starting and Adjusting Asset Management Programs11:37 People-Centered Digital Transformation17:44 Continuous Improvement and Root Cause Analysis28:52 Communication and Flexibility in Implementation31:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts+++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations API – American Petroleum InstituteCCD – Corrosion Control DocumentCMMS – Computerized Maintenance Management SystemERP – Enterprise Resource PlanningIDMS – Inspection Database Management SystemIOW – Integrity Operating WindowKPI – Key Performance IndicatorMI – Mechanical IntegrityMOC – Management of ChangeNPRA – National Petrochemical & Refiners AssociationRBI – Risk-Based InspectionRCA – Root Cause AnalysisRCM – Reliability Centered MaintenanceSME – Subject Matter Expert+++++++++++ Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    32 min
  7. Episode 20 - Year in Review

    JAN 8

    Episode 20 - Year in Review

    In the 20th episode, we mark a significant milestone, reflecting on our past guests and their diverse insights. We express gratitude to our guests and their employers for the invaluable conversations that have helped broaden the podcast’s scope, including Andri Orphanides, John Reynolds, Lynne Kaley, Bobby Wright, Clay White, and Alexander Gonzalez. We highlight the importance of networking, communication, and the evolution of industry standards, and we also emphasize our excitement about future episodes, listener engagement, and continuous progress in the industry. We look forward to more enriching conversations in 2026, especially at the upcoming API Inspection & Mechanical Integrity Summit in San Antonio, and we urge our global community of listeners to stay connected and contribute to upcoming topics. 00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration00:45 Reflecting on the Journey02:11 Acknowledging Guests and Employers03:04 Key Themes and Surprises05:13 Technological Advances and Industry Insights13:34 Looking Ahead to 202615:22 Closing Remarks and Gratitude16:24 Credits and Legal Disclaimer+++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AI – Artificial IntelligenceAPI – American Petroleum InstituteASME – American Society of Mechanical EngineersIT – Information TechnologyMI – Mechanical IntegrityNDE – Nondestructive ExaminationRBI – Risk-Based Inspection+++++++++++ Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    17 min
  8. Episode 19 - From Transition to Transformation (featuring Alexander Gonzalez)

    12/18/2025

    Episode 19 - From Transition to Transformation (featuring Alexander Gonzalez)

    In part 2 of our interview with Alex Gonzalez, we dive into the challenges and opportunities of implementing mechanical integrity programs in modern facilities. Alex shares his experiences rolling out RBI and inspection management platforms across an enterprise, discussing the critical importance of breaking down organizational silos and securing executive buy-in for successful implementation. The conversation explores the evolving role of AI and machine learning in mechanical integrity, with Alex offering thoughtful perspectives on augmenting rather than replacing human expertise. He addresses concerns about the knowledge gap created by retiring experienced professionals and emphasizes the need for structured knowledge transfer programs. Alex also discusses the importance of viewing RBI as one tool in a larger toolkit, cautioning against over-reliance on any single methodology. Whether you're implementing new MI platforms, navigating digital transformation, or preparing the next generation of professionals, Alex's insights on change management, continuous improvement, and keeping focused on end goals provide valuable guidance for practitioners at all levels. 00:00 Introduction and Initial Role in Canada00:54 Transition to Mechanical Integrity Projects04:29 Challenges and Successes in Mechanical Integrity05:36 Importance of Cross-Department Collaboration12:23 Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes31:48 Advice for Future Engineers36:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts+++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AI - Artificial IntelligenceAPI - American Petroleum InstituteAPM - Asset Performance ManagementEAM - Enterprise Asset ManagementESOP - Employee Stock Ownership PlanFMEA - Failure Mode and Effects AnalysisGPT - Generative Pre-trained TransformerIOW - Integrity Operating WindowKPPL - Key Performance Parameter ListMI - Mechanical IntegrityMOC - Management of ChangePHA - Process Hazard AnalysisRBI - Risk-Based InspectionRCM - Reliability Centered MaintenanceR&D - Research and DevelopmentSME - Subject Matter Expert+++++++++++ Send a text & tell us what you think! Thank you for listening to Upon Further Inspection! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.   We’d love to hear from you—connect with us on LinkedIn and share your thoughts on the episode. Have ideas for future topics or guests? Email us at inspectionpodcast@gmail.com. Join us next time, wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, stay safe and stay informed. Note:  The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.

    39 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Upon Further Inspection, the mechanical integrity podcast, uses engaging interviews to celebrate the people, stories, and real-world industrial reliability experiences.   Every episode explores topics that matter most to professionals in oil & gas, refining, petrochemical, and other process industries. Through in-depth conversations with industry experts, we discuss themes like continuous improvement, safety, technology advancements, compliance, risk-based inspection, and professional growth. 

Information

  • Creator
    CorrSolutions & Inspectioneering
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Upon Further Inspection
  • Show Website
    Upon Further Inspection

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