How does it feel to receive such recognition from your peers in the pipeline industry?

Receiving the YPI Early Achievement Award is a tremendous honor and a deeply meaningful recognition. It brings me great pride—not only personally, but also on behalf of my company, SONATRACH, and my country, Algeria. This award encourages me to continue pushing boundaries in the pipeline sector and motivates me to contribute even more to innovation and sustainability in our industry.
 

Could you tell us about your background and how you became involved in the pipeline industry?

I hold a PhD in mechanical engineering and have always been passionate about the behavior of materials under operational constraints. My journey at SONATRACH started in the Research and Development department in 2018, where I’ve had the opportunity to work on topics ranging from pipeline integrity and hydrogen transport to in-service welding techniques. My involvement in welding under pressure, a critical activity in pipeline maintenance, further deepened my engagement with the pipeline industry.
 

Could you discuss significant milestones that have led you to where you are right now in your career?

One of the key milestones was the development of a patented process for in-service welding of thin-walled pipelines using an austenitic buttering layer. This innovation helps ensure the safety and structural reliability of pipelines during maintenance without interrupting production—a major advancement for operational continuity. Other milestones include my work on hydrogen pipeline qualification and my participation in international conferences where I’ve presented research on hydrogen embrittlement and fatigue.
 

Can you share any notable projects or initiatives you've worked on that have had a significant impact on the pipeline industry?

In addition to my work on hydrogen embrittlement in API 5L steel pipelines, I led a project on developing and qualifying a welding procedure for live pipeline repair, which resulted in an officially recognized patent. This technology has real-world impact by improving safety and minimizing downtime. I’ve also contributed to the qualification of composite repair systems for pipeline defects and to studies on the reuse of natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transport.
 

In your experience, what are some of the key challenges that the pipeline industry faces today?

The industry is currently navigating complex challenges such as the repurposing of existing infrastructure for hydrogen, aging assets, stricter safety and environmental regulations, and the need for real-time monitoring. Technologically, performing interventions like in-service welding in a safe and controlled way is also a challenge that requires expertise, innovation, and regulatory support.
 

What role do you believe young professionals can play in shaping the future of the pipeline industry?

Young professionals are essential to the future of the pipeline industry. They bring innovation, adaptability, and a strong focus on sustainability. Through R&D, digitalization, and advanced techniques like in-service welding or AI-based monitoring, we can modernize the sector and address emerging energy and climate challenges. Their role is to challenge the status quo and build bridges between traditional practices and new energy systems.
 

Apart from your professional pursuits, what are some of your hobbies or interests that bring you joy and help you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time in nature, which help me stay balanced and inspired. I’m also passionate about sharing knowledge through mentoring and technical workshops, especially on niche topics like in-service welding, which I believe are essential for industry continuity and safety.
 

Finally, how do you see the future of the pipeline industry evolving, and what role do you envision for yourself in shaping that future??

I see the future of the pipeline industry as one that is more integrated with the energy transition, particularly through hydrogen and CO₂ transport. Maintenance technologies like in-service welding will remain critical, especially as we seek to extend the life of aging infrastructure safely. I plan to continue working at the intersection of innovation, safety, and sustainability—promoting applied research, developing new technologies, and sharing expertise through collaboration at both national and international levels.