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Norm Blatz
Inspection Technical Support Specialist at Shell
Professional Background
Norm Blatz is a highly regarded corrosion specialist with extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, specifically within gas processing plants, oilsands plants, refineries, upgraders, and petrochemical facilities. With a career spanning several key roles in reputable organizations, he has built a solid reputation for his expertise in corrosion and integrity management programs. Norm’s profound knowledge of risk-based inspection (RBI) has enabled him to contribute significantly to the operational safety and efficiency of various facilities across the industry.
Norm started his journey at Shell, where he held multiple positions that helped him develop a deep understanding of corrosion management and integrity assessment. His most recent role as Inspection Technical Support Specialist allowed him to apply his extensive background to support inspection processes and enhance the integrity of Shell's operations.
Prior to this position, Norm served as a Materials and Corrosion Specialist at Shell, where he was instrumental in identifying and mitigating corrosion issues, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and optimizing maintenance practices across the organization. His leadership skills and technical expertise were further evidenced during his tenure as Regional Manager and Integrity Specialist at Ammonite Corrosion Engineering Inc., where he managed significant projects addressing integrity concerns in operational setups.
Education and Achievements
Norm's academic background is complemented by his practical experience, giving him a unique perspective on corrosion challenges in the oil and gas sector. His educational qualifications, including relevant certifications and training in engineering and materials science, have equipped him with the essential skills needed to excel in his roles. Throughout his career, he has finished numerous professional development courses focused on corrosion technology and inspection techniques. His commitment to continuing education is reflected in his ability to stay ahead of industry trends and advancements.
As Chief Inspector at BA Energy, Norm led teams in conducting thorough inspections and implementing quality assurance processes, contributing to the organization’s reputation for operational excellence. His previous role as Senior Staff Inspector at Shell further solidified his placement as an authority on industry standards and practices. In addition, Norm’s time as a Senior Production Operator at Shell provided him with hands-on experience that further informs his strategic decision-making in his current roles.
Achievements
Norm Blatz has achieved numerous milestones in his career, including the successful implementation of corrosion and integrity management programs that have resulted in significant cost savings and risk reduction for his employers. His proactive approach to risk-based inspection has been pivotal in identifying potential issues before they escalate, enhancing operational safety. Notably, his expertise in this area has been recognized by industry peers and has led to several speaking engagements at industry conferences, where he shares his insights and strategies for effective corrosion management.
In addition to his technical achievements, Norm is also known for his leadership and mentoring capabilities. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge with the next generation of engineers and technicians in the field, thus contributing to the industry's overall growth and success. Norm's emphasis on collaboration and teamwork has created a culture of safety and integrity within the teams he has led, ensuring that best practices are followed and adhered to throughout all operations.
In summary, Norm Blatz is a corrosion specialist whose extensive expertise in the oil and gas industry has positioned him as a leader in corrosion management and integrity assessment. His commitment to safety, excellence in operations, and dedication to professional growth continue to make an impact in the field. As he moves forward in his career, Norm remains focused not only on advancing his own knowledge and skills but also on fostering the growth of others in this vital industry.