API donates standards to Penn College for academic programs

API (the American Petroleum Institute) has donated access to its standards for industry best practices to Pennsylvania College of Technology for use in the curriculums of various academic programs in the college’s School of Engineering Technologies.

Representatives of API were on campus in Penn College’s welding lab in the Lycoming Engines Metal Trades Center on Aug. 28 to formally present the standards.

Presenting for API was Scott Garten, vice president, global industry standards (GIS) product management, accompanied by representatives of API Pennsylvania.

Accepting the standards on behalf of the college were Bradley M. Webb, dean of engineering technologies, and Michael R. Allen, instructor of welding/department head.

The academic majors primarily served by the standards are welding & fabrication engineering technology (Bachelor of Science), welding technology (Associate of Applied Science), welding (Certificate) and non-destructive testing (Associate of Applied Science). The standards outline the proper procedures for designing and constructing equipment used in the oil and natural gas industry.

“Pipe welding – and non-destructive testing of those welds – are critical parts of our programs,” Webb said. “As such, having the official standards that govern the petroleum industry will enable us to show students the actual requirements they may use when welding in industry. This is invaluable to students, as they can learn the specific symbols, language and procedures of the petroleum industry before they enter the workforce. I believe this will give our students a competitive advantage in the job market.”

“As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of our first standard, API is proud to donate our standards to the Pennsylvania College of Technology, a premier institution preparing the next generation of industry professionals,” Garten said. “By providing them with access to our standards, we’re investing in our nation’s energy future, equipping students with the training they need to advance operational and environmental safety, efficiency and sustainability in the oil and natural gas industry.”

After the presentation and lunch, the API contingent joined staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-15th District, as well as representatives from Coterra and Seneca Resources, for a tour of labs serving programs for machining technologies, advanced manufacturing, polymer engineering technology, and dental hygiene. The group also toured the Center for Career Design and the college’s Clean Energy Center. Before arriving on main campus, members of the group toured Penn College’s Lumley Aviation Center near the Williamsport Regional Airport.

About API
Since 1924, the American Petroleum Institute (API) has published more than 800 standards, guidelines, and other documents that enhance safety, efficiency and environmentally responsible industry best practices. API standards are celebrated for their global impact and technical rigor, reflecting a standards development process that is both thorough and inclusive. Draft standards undergo extensive consultation utilizing consensus building and stakeholder input, ensuring a balance of diverse interests are represented throughout the process. This method encourages participation and promotes technical integrity. It’s a process accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and has been applied to the development of all editions of API’s extensive range of standards. 

Information about Penn College’s welding & metal fabrication majors can be found online.

For more about the college, a national leader in applied technology education and a special mission affiliate of Penn State, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.