August 2026
The August AMPPlify Update brings together the latest from across the AMPP community, from industry recognition and emerging professionals to technical innovation and global events. In this issue, explore the 2027 AMPP Awards and EMERG Scholarship opportunities, new research supporting safer shore power, developments in maritime corrosion technology, upcoming conferences around the world, newly published standards, and resources to help you stay connected to the profession.
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In this AMPPlify Update
AMPP NEWS
New Podcast Explores Corrosion, Leadership, and Asset Integrity
What does it take to protect critical infrastructure in today’s evolving energy landscape? In a new episode of the World Pipelines podcast, Kimberly-Joy Harris, Ph.D., PMP, Manager of Corrosion Prevention at HF Sinclair and 2026 AMPP Board of Directors Chair, discusses the challenges and opportunities shaping corrosion prevention and asset integrity.
Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in oil and gas, refining, and pipeline operations, Harris shares her perspective on the growing importance of corrosion control, the integrity challenges facing operators in 2026, and the role of leadership, collaboration, and workforce development in protecting aging infrastructure. She also discusses how AMPP supports the industry through education, standards, certifications, and technical collaboration while reflecting on her own professional journey.
Listen to the full episode.
Explore Practical Solutions at the 2026 AMPP Central Conference
The AMPP Central Conference brings together corrosion prevention and industrial coatings professionals in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Sept. 28–30, to exchange practical solutions for protecting critical infrastructure.
Hosted by the AMPP Twin Cities Chapter, the conference features technical sessions, project case studies, a hands-on Monday Rectifier Course, an exhibit hall and networking opportunities designed to help attendees address today’s corrosion and coatings challenges.
Register by Aug. 23 to save $125 on full conference registration. Read the full announcement or visit the conference website to register.
AMPP Invites Proposals for New Maritime Research Initiative
AMPP is accepting proposals for the inaugural project in its new research grant program. The $50,000, eight-month project will examine ammonia as a marine fuel by reviewing existing technical knowledge, identifying critical knowledge gaps, and recommending priorities for future research, standards and technology adoption.
Proposals are due by 5 p.m. EDT on Sept. 25, 2026. Read the full announcement for project details, eligibility requirements and submission instructions or visit the program website at AMPP Ammonia Research RFP – AMPP.
Global Ambassadors Share Real-World Insights in New AMPP Podcast Series
AMPP is expanding its Fifth Anniversary “Then and Now” podcast interviews with a new four-part series featuring members of the 2026 AMPP Ambassador Class. The series brings together experts from around the world to discuss corrosion prevention, protective coatings, asset integrity, and many trends shaping the future of materials protection.
Each episode explores a different topic, ranging from the development of international standards and pipeline integrity to artificial intelligence (AI), workforce development, and lessons learned from coatings performance in the field. The conversations highlight the value of sharing practical experiences across industries, disciplines and regions to help advance the profession.
Episode 1 premiered on Aug. 17 (listen here), with additional episodes released throughout the next two weeks. Read the full announcement for episode details and listen to the ambassador series on the AMPP podcast page.
AMPP, Advanced Carbons Council Partner on Emerging Materials Challenges
AMPP and the Advanced Carbons Council (ACC) have signed a three-year agreement to advance technical knowledge, research, education and standards development related to advanced carbon materials and materials performance.
The partnership’s first initiative will be a September 10, 2026, AMPP Forefront Series Webcast, “Advanced Carbon Materials in Coatings Applications.”
Read the full announcement to learn more.
AMPP MEMBER MOMENTS
Building Stronger Industry Connections Through AMPP – A Story from GMA
Corporate Membership means something different to every organization. For GMA Garnet, it has created opportunities to connect with the industry while supporting technical engagement around the world.
Tomas Mayorga, Marketing Manager at GMA Americas, shares:
“Over the past few years, GMA Garnet has supported AMPP through chapter sponsorships, industry events, and technical engagement in emerging markets. We’ve seen firsthand how expanding into new regions creates opportunities to share knowledge, strengthen local industries, and build lasting relationships. Those connections have also led to meaningful business opportunities, reinforcing the value of investing in local industry communities.”
GMA mines, processes, and distributes high-quality garnet abrasives for surface preparation. They believe the best results come from being part of the conversation while supporting their customers, not just supplying a product.
Through its AMPP Corporate Membership, GMA has strengthened relationships with members around the world, expanded its presence in emerging markets, and supported the technical communities that help move the industry forward.
Learn more about GMA Garnet and its work in the industry or follow GMA on LinkedIn.
Every organization’s story is different. Start yours with AMPP Corporate Membership.
Every Achievement Has a Story Worth Sharing
Behind every AMPP Award is a person, team, or organization whose work has left a lasting mark on our industry. These awards recognize achievements in leadership, technical excellence, research, innovation, and service across the profession.
Past award recipient Ashley Caria shares what receiving an AMPP Award meant to her:
“Being recognized as an AMPP award recipient is incredibly validating, not simply because of the award itself but because it reinforces that the time, energy, and passion I’ve poured into volunteering are making a meaningful difference in our industry. So much of the work we do as volunteers happens behind the scenes. We build connections, create opportunities, support the next generation, and work to make our industry more inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking. To have that publicly recognized is a reminder that these efforts do matter, in a really big way.” – Ashley Caria, Joyce Wright Industry Impact Award, 2026
If someone has made a difference in your organization or the industry, now is the time to recognize their contributions. The 2027 AMPP Awards nomination period is now open. Review the award categories and eligibility requirements, then submit your nomination. Learn more.
Honoree Night – Save the Date
April 14, 2027, at AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2027 in Columbus, Ohio.
Build Your Future with EMERG Scholarships
A career in materials protection starts with opportunity, and EMERG Scholarships are designed to help students take that next step.
Each year, EMERG provides scholarships to support students pursuing careers in corrosion, protective coatings, and materials protection. The 2027 Academic Scholarship Program application cycle opens September 1 and runs through December 1. Scholarship opportunities are available for students at different stages of their educational journey, with each award offering its own eligibility requirements. Applications are reviewed by an independent selection committee.
This year also marks the launch of the NEW TalentForce Professional & Skilled Trades Scholarship Program. The 2026 cycle is now open and will run annually from June 1 through September 1. Five trades scholarships are currently available for individuals pursuing an alternative to a traditional four-year degree, offered in the form of a credit applied toward AMPP education courses. As with AMPP’s academic scholarships, each award has its own distinct eligibility requirements. Whether you’re developing new skills, advancing your career, or working toward an AMPP credential, these scholarships are designed to help you reach your goals.
Applicants can now access both programs through the new TalentForce Scholarship Portal, making it easier to find available scholarships, review eligibility requirements, and submit applications.
Whether you’re just beginning your education, preparing to graduate, or building your career in the industry, there’s a scholarship opportunity designed to help you move forward.
Behind every scholarship is someone investing in the future of the industry. Donations to EMERG help students pursue their education, develop new skills, and prepare for careers that will strengthen the materials protection profession for years to come.
To learn more about available scholarships, application deadlines, or ways to support the program, visit the TalentForce Scholarship Portal or contact emerg@ampp.org.
AMPP IN MEMORIAM
In Memoriam: Honoring Mark J. Byerley, Sr.
AMPP joins the global corrosion and materials protection community in mourning the passing of Mark J. Byerley, Sr., President and CEO of Tinker & Rasor and a past president of NACE International.
For more than 50 years, Mark dedicated his career to advancing corrosion prevention, materials protection, and the people who make the profession exceptional. A second-generation industry leader, he carried forward a family legacy that began with his father, Darrel D. Byerley, who also served as NACE president. Mark followed in his father’s footsteps as NACE President from 2009 to 2010, continuing a lifelong commitment to technical excellence, leadership and service.
Throughout his career, Mark was known not only for his contributions to industry but also for the relationships he built across the corrosion community. He often said the greatest strength of the profession was its people, a belief reflected in his leadership of Tinker & Rasor and his dedication to AMPP and its legacy organizations.
AMPP extends its heartfelt condolences to Mark’s wife, Denise; his son, Mark J. Byerley, Jr.; his daughter-in-law, Heather; the entire Byerley family; and everyone at Tinker & Rasor. Mark’s legacy will endure through the generations of professionals he mentored, the friendships he fostered, and the lasting impact he made on the corrosion and materials protection profession.
AMPP TECH
Advance your expertise.
Find your next course.
Build practical skills in corrosion control, protective coatings, inspection, cathodic protection, pipeline integrity, and more.
Explore Course ScheduleAMPP EVENTS
AMPP Central Conference 2026
📍 Saint Paul, MN
September 28–30, 2026
View Conference →AMPP Eastern Conference 2026
📍 Myrtle Beach, SC
October 19–21, 2026
View Conference →East Asia and Pacific Area Conference
📍 Pattaya Beach, Thailand
November 10–12, 2026
View Conference →AMPP Western Conference 2026
📍 Renton, WA
November 16–18, 2026
View Conference →AMPP Annual Conference + Expo
📍 Columbus, OH
April 11–15, 2027
View Conference →Environmental Degradation
📍 Vancouver, BC, Canada
July 25–29, 2027
View Conference →Area Conference Spotlight: AMPP Central Conference
This month, we’re putting the spotlight on the AMPP Central Conference, taking place September 28–30 in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Focused on the intersection of corrosion prevention and industrial coatings, the Central Conference brings together professionals seeking practical solutions to protect assets facing unique access and operational challenges. Attendees can build their technical knowledge, exchange ideas with industry peers, and connect with companies offering the latest products, services, and technologies.
Registration is open, and there’s still time to get your company involved. Exhibit and sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations looking to showcase their solutions, increase brand visibility, and connect directly with corrosion and coatings professionals. Register or explore exhibit and sponsorship opportunities.
Coming Next Month: Advance Registration for AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2027
Get ready! Advance Registration for AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2027 opens next month.
Join the global corrosion and coatings community in Columbus, Ohio, April 11–15, 2027, for five days of technical education, innovation, networking, and industry connection.
Whether you’re looking to expand your expertise, discover new technologies and solutions, connect with industry peers, or grow your professional network, we bring the corrosion and coatings community together in one place.
Watch for more details and be ready to take advantage of Advance Registration rates when registration opens.
Learn more about AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2027.
AMPP STANDARDS
NEW Documents:
AMPP Guide 21586-2026 Guidelines for Laboratory Testing of Materials In Hydrogen
Revised Documents:
NACE SP0114-2026 Refinery Injection and Process Mix Points
AMPP SP21513-2026 Procedure for Determining Conformance to Concrete Surface Profile Requirements
AMPP AROUND THE WORLD
Oil & Gas Asia (OGA) 2026
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
September 2–4, 2026
Explore EventEUROCORR 2026
Dublin, Ireland
September 6–10, 2026
Explore EventAASHTO – Northeast NEBPP Meeting
Worcester, MA
September 8–10, 2026
Explore EventInternational Pipeline Conference & Expo (IPCE) 2026
Calgary, Canada
September 22–24, 2026
Explore EventAMPP HUB
Coming Soon: The AMPP On the Job Sale
Getting back into work mode after summer? We’ve got something to help. Watch for the AMPP On the Job Sale, coming September 1–11, featuring savings on select books for coatings, corrosion, pipeline integrity, and more.
The sale begins September 1.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Quick answers to common questions about corrosion prevention, pipeline integrity, hydrogen-related damage, protective coatings, and the technical resources featured in this month’s AMPPlify Update.
What is pipeline integrity management?
Pipeline integrity management is the process of identifying, assessing, and managing threats that could affect the safe and reliable operation of a pipeline. Programs may address external and internal corrosion, coating deterioration, mechanical damage, environmental cracking, and other integrity risks through inspection, monitoring, assessment, maintenance, and mitigation.
AMPP offers pipeline-focused education covering corrosion control and integrity management for professionals responsible for protecting pipeline assets. Explore AMPP pipeline corrosion and integrity management resources .
What is hydrogen embrittlement?
Hydrogen embrittlement is a form of material degradation in which absorbed hydrogen can reduce the ductility and load-bearing capability of susceptible metals, increasing the risk of cracking or brittle failure. The risk depends on factors such as the material, stress state, environment, and hydrogen exposure.
Understanding hydrogen-related damage is increasingly important in materials selection, corrosion control, pipelines, energy systems, and other infrastructure. Learn more about hydrogen embrittlement from AMPP .
How is artificial intelligence influencing corrosion and materials protection work?
Artificial intelligence and other digital tools can help professionals organize technical information, analyze large data sets, identify patterns, support inspection workflows, and accelerate access to industry knowledge. These tools are most useful when paired with qualified technical expertise, sound engineering judgment, and reliable source material.
This month’s AMPP Ambassador podcast series includes conversations about artificial intelligence, workforce development, pipeline integrity, standards, coatings performance, and other trends affecting the profession. Explore AMPP podcasts .
Why is surface preparation important before applying protective coatings?
Surface preparation helps create the conditions needed for a protective coating or lining system to adhere and perform as intended. Depending on the substrate and service environment, preparation may include removing rust, mill scale, old coatings, salts, oils, dust, or other contaminants and achieving a specified surface cleanliness and profile.
AMPP develops standards and technical resources used by industry professionals to evaluate and specify surface preparation for protective coatings. Explore AMPP surface preparation standards and resources .
EXPLORE MORE CORROSION INSIGHTS
Continue exploring technical resources connected to this month’s stories, research, standards, professional development, and materials protection topics.
Understand Hydrogen Embrittlement
Learn how hydrogen can affect susceptible metals and why hydrogen-related cracking matters for materials performance and infrastructure.
Explore the topic → 02 / PIPELINESBuild Your Pipeline Integrity Knowledge
Find education on pipeline corrosion, integrity management, internal corrosion, cathodic protection, inspection, and related asset protection topics.
Explore pipeline resources → 03 / STANDARDSFind the Standards You Need
Browse standards for corrosion control, coatings, surface preparation, cathodic protection, inspection, materials performance, and more.
Browse AMPP Standards → 04 / KNOWLEDGE HUBExplore the AMPP Knowledge Hub
Access books, technical papers, standards, articles, and other corrosion and materials protection resources from AMPP.
Visit the Knowledge Hub →Never miss an AMPPlify Update.
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