EEMUA Podcast

The Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association, EEMUA, has unveiled their 2025 strategy. The association, which recently turned 75, aims to continue its impact in industry by broadening its international reach, upgrading its technical capabilities, and continuing to grow its membership.

EEMUA’s Chief Executive Stefan Kukula reflects on 2024, a year filled with successful online and in-person seminars across varied topics, significant contributions on technical committees, numerous publications, and globally recognised training courses. Among the highlights of the year was winning the Industrial Process News Award for Training Company of the Year for the third consecutive time.

This episode explores the challenges and strategies associated with managing ageing industrial equipment. The discussion focuses on the complexities of maintaining and upgrading ageing plant, particularly in industries such as petrochemicals and nuclear.

Guests: Nick Deavin (AWE) and Philip Enegela (INEOS)

Key topics discussed include:

• Defining ageing plant: The podcast clarifies the concept of ageing equipment, emphasizing that it's not solely related to chronological age but also factors like deterioration and obsolescence.
• Challenges of ageing plant: The experts highlight the difficulties of managing ageing equipment, including wear and tear, corrosion, and the integration of new and old components.
• Strategies for managing ageing plant: The discussion covers various strategies for managing ageing plant, such as risk assessment, investment planning, and technology upgrades.
• Human factors: The podcast also addresses the importance of human capital in managing ageing plant, including recruitment, training, and knowledge transfer.

Overall, the podcast provides valuable insights for industries dealing with ageing equipment, offering guidance on how to navigate the challenges and ensure the safe and efficient operation of their assets.

In this episode, host Deovonne Ferreira interviews Megan Backhouse, a previous recipient of the Early Years Industry Award. Megan recounts her unique path into the engineering field. She discusses the hurdles she has faced, some of her projects and underscores the value of mentorship.

In this INWED 2024 episode, Host Kat Wruck welcomes Deovonne Ferreira, Head of Membership at EEMUA. They discuss Deovonne's role at EEMUA, her career journey and what keeps her passionate about her work. Tune in for an insightful and celebratory conversation!

This podcast episode delves into various industry upheavals and the combined effects of shifts to mitigate climate change, the energy transition, geopolitical challenges, and the increasing adoption of new technology. The discussion, led by Stefan Kukula, explores the impact of these factors on industrial operations and the challenges faced by stakeholders.

The guests, Matt Cleaver and Margit Blok, share insights, highlighting the need to reduce energy reliance, repurpose equipment, and navigate changing trading relationships. They discuss the difficulties of adapting to new energy sources, skill shortages in the industry, and the potential role of artificial intelligence in addressing labor gaps. Furthermore, the podcast explores the lingering impacts of the global pandemic, including postponed maintenance and inspection schedules. The guests reflect on the positive aspects of remote working practices and the increased reliance on technology. Overall, the episode presents a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing industrial asset operators in today's rapidly changing landscape.