In this issue: PHMSA appointed Robert Mitchell to the agency's Gas Pipeline Advisory Committee, the deadline to register for the Engineering Data Book Training is here, Technical Conference registrations are on pace to set a new attendance record, GPA Midstream member Mark Smith calls workforce development investment, and the Convention call for papers deadline has been extended. Also, check out advocacy updates, including the push to fund Department of Homeland Security cybersecurity funding, and midstream's support for reauthorizing PHMSA pipeline safety programs.

There’s a conversation our industry needs to have. As I interact with midstream colleagues, I’m hearing companies across NDT, inspection, and mechanical integrity, saying the same thing: “We can’t find experienced technicians.” But experience doesn’t just appear overnight. Someone has to develop it.

In this issue of Midstream News: GPA Midstream submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in the Furnace Rule Case, the association advocacy team is urging the U.S. Senate to pass permitting reform, and GPA Midstream joined an industry coalition commenting on EPA's Clean Water Act Section 401 proposal. Also: registration is open for the July Introduction to Midstream Course, GPA Midstream is seeking a new member for the federal advocacy staff, important deadlines for Convention and Technical Conference are coming soon, and technical ballots information is available.

GPA Midstream and other trade groups representing pipelines and refineries sent a letter to congressional leaders urging them to end the shutdown at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and restore normal operations at federal cybersecurity agencies.

GPA Midstream urged Congress to reauthorize PHMSA pipeline safety programs, supporting practical, performance-based regulations that enhance safety, eliminate redundant oversight of in-plant gas piping, and provide long-term regulatory certainty for critical U.S. energy infrastructure.