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. 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
  2. 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
  3. Episode 18 - From Tropics to Tundra (featuring Alexander Gonzalez)

    12/04/2025

    Episode 18 - From Tropics to Tundra (featuring Alexander Gonzalez)

    In part 1 of our interview, we welcome Alex Gonzalez, an asset performance management specialist with extensive experience in the mechanical integrity field. Alex traces his career from his studies in materials engineering and metallurgy in Venezuela through his current work in Canada's oil and gas sector. The discussion covers his focus on corrosion science, the role political circumstances played in his relocation, and his experience developing a career in two different countries. Alex provides insights on effective networking practices, explains how API certifications serve as a common language in the global industry, and discusses the value of taking initiative in career advancement. Whether you're early in your MI career, navigating your own transition, or looking to strengthen your professional network, Alex's story offers valuable lessons on resilience, adaptation, and continuous learning. Part 2 of our conversation with Alexander Gonzalez will be published on [TBD] – subscribe today! 00:00 Introduction to the Mechanical Integrity Podcast00:38 Meet Alex Gonzalez: Asset Performance Management Specialist01:12 Alex's Journey into Mechanical Integrity01:36 College Days and Early Career08:56 Networking and Professional Growth20:52 Challenges and Adaptations in Venezuela25:00 Relocating to Canada: New Beginnings27:06 Cultural and Professional Adjustments43:38 Conclusion and Podcast Credits +++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations API – American Petroleum InstituteMI – Mechanical IntegrityNBIC – National Board Inspection CodeR&D – Research and DevelopmentTAN – Total Acid NumberTML – Thickness Measurement Location+++++++++++ 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.

    44 min
  4. Episode 17 - Hope & Luck Are Not a Strategy for Success (featuring Bill Valerioti)

    11/13/2025

    Episode 17 - Hope & Luck Are Not a Strategy for Success (featuring Bill Valerioti)

    Part 2 of our interview with Bill Valerioti, a semi-retired petrochemicals and chemical industry SME, is now available!  We dive right in with an interesting comparison between the chemical and refining industries. Bill draws on his extensive experience to emphasize the abundance of information available in refining compared to the more secretive nature of chemical manufacturing. Bill also contrasts the differences and overlaps between industry associations, such as NACE/AMPP, API, and MTI. From start to finish, this conversation offers several valuable lessons and underscores the critical nature of adhering to quality and safety standards in the industry. If you missed Part 1 of our interview with Bill, you can catch the episode wherever you get your podcasts.  00:28 Differences Between Refining and Chemical Industries 04:14 The Role of Industry Organizations 07:09 Value of Continuous Learning on Career Success 13:53 Future of Knowledge Transfer 18:42 Welding: A Practical Perspective  26:59 The Emotional Impact of Industrial Incidents 29:34 Advancements in Inspection Technology 31:31 The Future of Non-Invasive Inspections 36:58 The Critical Role of Skill and Qualification in NDE +++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AIChE – American Institute of Chemical Engineers API – American Petroleum Institute AMPP – Association for Materials Protection & Performance   ASME – American Society of Mechanical Engineers ASNT – American Society for Non-destructive Testing CUI – Corrosion under Insulation GTAW TIG Welding – Gas Tungsten Arc Welding-Tungsten Inert Gas Welding GMAW MIG Welding – Gas Metal Arc Welding-Metal Insert Gas Welding  HF Alki – Hydrofluoric Alkylation units MTI – Materials Technology Institute NACE – National Association of Corrosion Engineers, now known as AMPP (Association for Materials Protection & Performance)   NDE – Non-destructive Evaluation QA-QC – Quality Assurance-Quality Control RBI – Risk-Based Inspection SME – Subject Matter Expert TIG – Tungsten Inert Gas  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.

    43 min
  5. Episode 16 - Fell in Love with Materials Engineering (featuring Bill Valerioti)

    10/30/2025

    Episode 16 - Fell in Love with Materials Engineering (featuring Bill Valerioti)

    We have a deep dive into materials engineering and corrosion this time around!  In part 1 of our interview, we welcome Bill Valerioti, a semi-retired petrochemicals and chemical industry SME. From his early days in chemical engineering to finding his passion for materials engineering and corrosion – Bill shares insight into his passion for materials failure analysis, mechanical integrity, and chemical plant operations. Bill also emphasizes the importance of effective communication, mentorship, understanding process operations, and continuous learning in the field. His contributions have spanned various roles, including materials engineer, maintenance superintendent, and operations superintendent, offering a comprehensive view of the industry's evolution and challenges. If you work in mechanical integrity or engineering, this episode is a must-listen. Part 2 of our conversation with Bill Valerioti will be published on November 13 – subscribe today! 01:12 Bill Val's Educational Journey 02:09 Early Career and Internship Experience 03:18 Professional Growth at Phillips Petroleum 05:10 Transition to Equipment Inspection 08:39 Lessons from Mentorship and Operations 15:07 Importance of Communication and Soft Skills 23:32 Technical Insights and Industry Evolution 29:10 Encouragement for Continuous Learning 35:26 Building Trust and Relationships in Operations +++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations API – American Petroleum Institute  DMR – Damage Mechanism Review HTHA – High-Temperature Hydrogen Attack MPC – Materials Properties Council (subsidiary of the WRC) NACE – National Association of Corrosion Engineers, now known as AMPP (Association for Materials Protection & Performance)   NDE – Non-destructive Evaluation  NDT – Non-destructive Testing  NPC – National Petroleum Council RBI – Risk-Based Inspection WRC – Welding Research Council 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.

    43 min
  6. Episode 15 - Getting a Good DMR (featuring Clay White)

    10/16/2025

    Episode 15 - Getting a Good DMR (featuring Clay White)

    We’re excited to welcome Clay White to the podcast! In this episode, Clay shares personal experiences and incidents that fueled his dedication to improving industry safety standards. He reflects on historical events, including the polypropylene reactor leak, and how these shaped his approach to safety. The conversation explores challenges in data management, the critical role of Damage Mechanism Reviews (DMRs), and limitations of inspection technologies. Clay also highlights common industry hurdles, such as ineffective RBI implementation and the need for careful planning when transitioning IDMS platforms. Tune in for insights on best practices, emerging trends in inspection, and the ongoing evolution of Risk-Based Inspection programs. If you missed Part 1 of our discussion with Clay White, catch up here or wherever you get your podcasts. 00:22 Motivation and Early Career 01:06 Significant Incident and Lessons Learned 05:21 Discussion on Industry Failures and Data Analysis 10:40 Best Practices for Mechanical Integrity 18:44 Challenges in Changing IDMS Programs  ++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AFPM – National Petrochemical & Refiners Association (USA) API RBI – Desktop RBI software available through Equity Software  CCDs – Corrosion Control Documents CML – Condition Monitoring Location DMR – Damage Mechanism Review EPRI – Electric Power Research Institute HTHA – High-Temperature Hydrogen Attack IDMS – Inspection Data Management System IOW – Integrity Operating Windows MI – Mechanical Integrity MOC – Management of Change PCMS – Mechanical Integrity Software available through MISTRAS PRDs – Pressure Relief Devices RBI – Risk-based Inspection 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.

    33 min
  7. Episode 14 - Stood the Test of Time (featuring Clay White)

    10/02/2025

    Episode 14 - Stood the Test of Time (featuring Clay White)

    Welcome to the world of mechanical integrity! In part 1 of our interview, we welcome Clay White to the podcast.  Take a listen as Clay takes us through his career journey, from earning a welding and metallurgy degree to becoming a recognized expert in mechanical integrity, corrosion, and materials engineering – including his contributions to API 581. Our discussion explores the evolution of Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) models, flaws in the Generic Failure Frequencies (GFF), the critical role of Damage Mechanism Reviews (DMR), and how statistical analysis can sharpen inspection strategies. We wrap up with Clay’s perspective on Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing the need for transparency, data accuracy, and responsible implementation. If you work in mechanical integrity or engineering, this episode is a must-listen. Part 2 of our conversation with Clay White will be published on October 16 – subscribe today! 00:26 Background and Early Career 02:57 Development of RBI Programs 07:12 Challenges with GFF and Data Accuracy 10:56 AI and the Future of Mechanical Integrity 15:29 Continuous Improvement and Data Management 18:33 CML Optimization and Inspection Strategies 22:30 Importance of Data Tracking and Optimization 25:26 Collaboration Between Engineers and Data Scientists 28:39 Case Studies: Heater Failure and Corrosion Rates  32:26 The Role of AI in Data Analysis: Transparency & Reliability +++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations API 581 – Risk-Based Inspection Technology (Recommended practice developed & published by API) API RBI – Desktop RBI software available through Equity Software ASME – American Society of Mechanical Engineers CML – Condition Monitoring Locations DMR – Damage Mechanism Reviews GFF – Generic Failure Frequencies IDMS – Inspection Data Management System ISO – International Organization for Standardization MI – Mechanical Integrity QA – Quality Assurance QRA – Quantitative Risk Assessment RBI – Risk-based Inspection RCM – Reliability Centered Maintenance SME – Subject Matter Expert TMLs – Thickness Measurement Location  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.

    46 min
  8. Episode 13 - On a Cat Cracker During a Tornado (featuring Bobby Wright)

    09/17/2025

    Episode 13 - On a Cat Cracker During a Tornado (featuring Bobby Wright)

    In Episode 13, we are pleased to welcome industry veteran Bobby Wright to the podcast!  From his beginnings working summers on an assembly line in Arkansas to becoming a business strategist and mentor, Bobby shares the valuable lessons learned and experiences that shaped his path. He discusses pivotal moments, including his roles at refineries and handling emergencies, like tornadoes. Key highlights include Bobby's involvement with coker units, advanced inspection methods, and the significance of a collaborative and well-rounded approach in achieving industry success. Reflecting on relationships forged, professional growth, and the importance of teamwork, Bobby's insights provide a comprehensive look into a dynamic and evolving career. Tune in to hear about resilience, leadership, and the future of engineering from someone who has lived it all.  01:43 Refinery Experience and Lessons 05:09 Transition to DNV – Innovations, Achievements, and meeting Greg Alvarado 07:12 Acoustic Emission Testing 18:58 Reflections on Technological Advancements 21:00 Technological Advancements and AI 23:06 Journey into the Coker World 29:06 Catastrophic Failures and Safety Concerns 33:24 Team Collaboration and Reliability 36:16 Institutionalizing Best Practices 40:29 Personal Reflections and Career Influences 45:51 Building Effective Teams   +++++++++++ Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations AE – Acoustic Emissions Automated UT – Automated Ultrasonic Testing EPA – Environmental Protection Agency (USA) FEA – Finite Element Analysis H2S – Hydrogen Sulfide NDT – Non-Destructive Testing OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health Administration (USA) PSM – Process Safety Management  RBI – 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.

    55 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
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Upon Further Inspection
  • Show Website
    Upon Further Inspection

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