Last month, Compressed Gas Association Vice President of Operations and Administration Laura Brumsey joined Marie Ratermann on The Tipping Point podcast to discuss everything from changes in the industry to advice for emerging professionals. Below are some of the key takeaways from their engaging conversation.
Marie Ratermann |
Laura Brumsey |
First off, what is the CGA and what does it do?
Essentially, the CGA is a trade association for the industrial and medical gas supply industry consisting of over 130 member companies. The association’s prime directive is to publish safety standards and best practices, which become particularly important in areas where government regulation may be lacking or not specific.
The CGA maintains an extensive library of safety publications, but has also created a broad range of educational materials catering to a variety of skill levels. Because the industry is seeing a large influx of younger hires, the CGA is an excellent resource to learn everything from the basics about transporting high-pressure gasses to code and regulation compliance.
What’s on the horizon for the gas industry?
Laura says she’s excited about the state of the industry, adding that “we’re about to go through massive innovation.” She noted that the last big cycle of innovation came with cryogenics, and now with the larger focus on alternative fuels, the industry is working toward becoming “greener and cleaner.” Safety will continue to be at the forefront, especially as hydrogen becomes more prevalent.
Best advice for younger people coming into the industry?
Laura says they like to describe the CGA as “by the engineers for the engineers,” and points to their robust library of educational materials. Self-paced learning modules walk through high-level, basic information for those starting out.
Laura also recommends making space for yourself at the table, meaning if you have an eye toward leadership, find a way to get into the room.
“Even if it means being the notetaker for a year or so, you’ll gradually become part of the active discussion,” she says. “That was the most valuable thing that happened for me. You can’t always wait for someone, you’ve got to make that ask and say ‘how can I be involved in this program or in this group?’”
Listen to the full podcast to find out more about Laura’s thoughts on the industry and where it’s going, as well as personal insights she’s learned along the way in her career.