The transfer of business-critical knowledge from key technical staff to the next generation workforce is of significant concern to the energy pipeline industry. For T.D. Williamson (TDW), the issue is nothing new. As a global pipeline solutions provider with a history reaching back nearly a century, the company implements formal knowledge transfer processes as part of talent development. One way is through its Engineering Development Program (EDP) for selected entry-level engineers, which begins at its Tulsa, Oklahoma, headquarters.

The EDP has enabled a diverse group of talented young professionals across the company’s international footprint to complete rotations in more than a dozen key areas of the business. Over the course of 12 to 24 months, EDP engineers assume a variety of technical, operational and hands-on manufacturing and service roles. Tenured business and technical leaders provide meaningful mentoring and professional guidance, as well as rich knowledge transfer. Visiting TDW core technology centers across the world promotes strong, lasting connections with subject matter experts as well as insight into the company’s full local technical, manufacturing and services capabilities.

Graduates of the Engineering Development Program have grown in their value and contributions to the organization – and have realized advancement opportunities – significantly quicker than typical entry-level engineers.

This article will highlight details of the program, benefits to the company and the industry and lessons learned.