Midstream Powers America
The midstream sector is a vital part of the North American oil and gas industry. After natural gas and crude oil are extracted from thousands of wells operated by the upstream sector, midstream companies gather, process, and transport these raw materials to make them into consumer products, or the feedstocks for products, that are distributed by the downstream sector to end users. Midstream “connects” the upstream and downstream energy segments efficiently and safely, and supports production of the affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy and everyday products needed to meet growing demand.
The oil and gas industry consists of three major segments: upstream, midstream and downstream. The MIDSTREAM segment connects upstream and downstream by gathering, processing, transporting, storing and distributing crude oil, natural gas and other energy products, as well as source materials for thousands of products. Midstream includes all the infrastructure needed to move these resources, such as pipelines, trucks, railways and ships.
Oil and gas industry supply chains are complex. They start with in-ground resources and end with finished products enjoyed by consumers globally. The steps from initial production to end-use can be divided into three major components: upstream, midstream, and downstream.
One of the oil and gas industry’s primary raw materials is natural gas, the cleanest fossil fuel energy source. The midstream sector has five main components in the movement of natural gas from its production location to its ultimate use: gathering, processing, storing, transporting, and marketing.
Note: In the oil and gas industry, marketing does not mean advertising. It means buying, selling, pricing, and arranging delivery of energy products from producers to the customers who use them. It’s the commercial side of the business that connects supply with demand.
The midstream sector is a vital part of the North American oil and gas industry. Midstream companies gather crude oil and natural gas extracted from thousands of wells operated by the upstream sector, process and treat the materials, and provide transportation, storage, and logistics services. Midstream “connects” the upstream and downstream energy segments efficiently and safely every day.
In recent years, U.S. exports of liquified natural gas and other products have helped stabilize global energy markets during periods of geopolitical turmoil.
Shaping the Midstream Industry Since 1921
By empowering collaboration and technical excellence, GPA Midstream has helped midstream evolve and grow for more than a century.
We Are Midstream
Your Gateway to Midstream Excellence
GPA Midstream Convention
Returning to San Antonio in 2026!
The 2025 GPA Midstream Convention ended Sept. 24 with attendees buzzing about strong attendance (a post-pandemic high) and inspiring, engaging, and educational program. Learn more about the 2025 Convention.
