One of the most energising and insightful moments at the 2025 APGA Convention came courtesy of a group of young professionals who represent not only the future of the industry, but the strength of its present.
The Young Pipeliners Forum (YPF) panel brought together five emerging leaders from across the sector:
Each of these panellists took to the stage, some for the first time in their careers, to share their experiences, their reflections, and their hopes for the industry they are actively shaping.
To present at the APGA Convention at this stage of a career is a remarkable achievement. It takes not only courage, but planning, preparation, and deep personal commitment. We know that behind every insight shared on stage was a great deal of thought, collaboration, and professionalism off-stage.
For many, standing under the lights, facing a large and experienced audience, can be an intimidating experience. These five individuals handled it with clarity, confidence, and purpose. They represented themselves, their organisations, and the broader young pipeliner community with pride and we could not be more impressed.
The insights shared during the YPF panel were powerful. They spoke directly to the challenges and opportunities of building a career in the pipeline industry today. The discussion covered everything from workplace culture, training and development, safety, inclusion, and the role of young professionals in driving the energy transition.
It was a clear reminder that hearing from the next generation is not a nice-to-have, it is essential. Their perspective helps shape how we recruit, how we retain, and how we grow our future leaders. Their experiences provide feedback on what we are doing well, and where we must do better.
One of the defining strengths of the pipeline industry has always been its sense of community. The YPF panel is one of the best examples of that community in action. Established professionals making space, and emerging leaders stepping into it.
We thank the broader YPF network for continuing to lead with energy and collaboration, and we especially thank the panellists who took on the challenge this year with such professionalism.
The industry’s future will be shaped by those just beginning their careers today. Platforms like the YPF panel help ensure those voices are heard and supported. These opportunities also send a message to early-career professionals - you belong here, and your ideas matter.
On behalf of APGA, thank you to Gretyl, Charlotte, Mark, Steph, and Nathan for your contribution to this year’s Convention. Your voices, your stories, and your presence made a real impact—and we look forward to seeing what you do next.