Schedule-at-a-Glance

Program is updated regularly and is subject to change.

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Registration Open

5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Networking Reception with Exhibitors

7:00 am – 8:00 am

Continental Breakfast with Exhibitors

8:00 am – 9:20 am

Opening General Session

9:30 am – 11:20 am

Morning Programming

11:30 am – 2:00 pm

Networking Lunch in with Exhibitors

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Afternoon Programming

6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Networking Night Out (Ticketed Event)

7:30 am – 8:30 am

Continental Breakfast

8:00 am – 11:50 am

Morning Programming

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Tour (Ticketed Event)

Schedule-at-a-Glance

Please Note: Program is updated regularly and is subject to change. Sessions will continue to be added to the program through the end of February 2025. Click the session title to view description and speaker details. 

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Registration Open

5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Networking Reception with Exhibitors

7:00 am – 8:00 am

Continental Breakfast with Exhibitors

8:00 am – 9:20 am

The 2025 Valve Forum conference program will kick off with a State of the Association from VMA’s President, Heather Rhoderick, immediately followed by our keynote address, Practical Sustainability Programs for Valve Manufacturers, given by Mitch Anderson, Vice President of Global Quality, Manufacturing & Sustainability at Bray International.  View full details of their presentations on the Special Events page. 

9:30 am – 10:20 am

Due to the unique design of plug valves, there have been multiple incidents within industry during online valve repair activities involving gear operator or actuator mounting brackets that have inadvertently resulted in removal of the top cap/cover bolting while the valve is in service.  This presentation looks at some of the common factors between these incidents regarding the valve and gear operator/actuator mounting bracket design that contributed to the incidents and how the valve industry is trying to prevent similar incidents in the future. 

Presented by: Michael Alford, Refining Piping and Valve Specialist, Marathon Petroleum Company

Michael Alford

Michael Alford is the Refining Piping and Valve Specialist for Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC).  Michael and his team provide technical support for piping, valves, bolted flange joints, and specialty piping components for thirteen MPC refineries, four MPC renewable fuel facilities throughout the United States. Additionally, they develop new internal MPC Specifications and Standards related to piping and valves, as well as maintain those that exist.  Michael serves as an end-user SME on the MSS TC-410 task group for HF Alkylation Valves; is the chair for the API Sub Committee on Piping and Valves (SCOPV) for Quarter Turn and Quality Sub Group; and the task group chair for API STD 599.

There are numerous reporting requirements related to PFAS either already in place or upcoming. This session will explore the state and U.S. EPA requirements, along with the Canadian requirements. It will cover information on what is required, and how to go about collecting and submitting your company’s data.  Additionally, we’ll explore other considerations and issues to be aware of as your company navigates its response to potential bans on PFAS.    

Presented by: Cally Edgren, VP Regulatory & Sustainability, Assent, Inc. 

Cally Edgreen

Cally is a proven compliance program leader with experience developing, communicating, and executing company goals and strategies. She is a subject matter expert on product materials compliance as well as market access certifications and has a background in programming and process development to support regulatory compliance requirements. Cally possesses over 27 years of experience in developing and managing global compliance programs at Rockwell Automation and Kohler Co.

Check valves are used to prevent reverse flow. But are you familiar with the sizing required for your application?  Do you know where and when to utilize a check valve? This presentation will cover how to approach your application. 

Presented by: Noah Miller, Applicaitons/Engineered Sales Manager, Check-All Valve

Noah Miller

Noah Miller is the worldwide Applications/Engineered Sales Manager for Check-All Valve Manufacturing Company. He’s been at Check-All since 2010 assisting customers with proper check valve installation, check valve sizing, troubleshooting, and custom check valve designs. In addition, he manages the inside sales team as well as all existing accounts. He regularly works with customers in the industries of oil and gas, steam, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, etc. He’s considered the expert on check valve capabilities and is relied upon by engineers, field personnel, and purchasers to assist them with their check valve needs. He has his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University as well as his Master’s in Business Administration from Drake University. Noah’s been married to his wife Rachael since 2011 and their family includes a daughter in addition to their two dogs. 

10:30 am – 11:20 am

This presentation addresses the technological advancements in valves and actuators driving the focus and the future of the industry. 

The Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes MAKE America initiative collaborates with manufacturers to strengthen the pipeline from military service to manufacturing careers. This program supports military hiring strategies by connecting manufacturers with the broader military community through certification training programs, hiring events, facility tours, career fairs, and other direct engagement opportunities.

Presented by: Amy Thomas, National Director, Heroes MAKE America, The Manufacturing Institute

Amy Thomas is the National Director, Heroes MAKE America at the Manufacturing Institute, the nonprofit affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). In her role, Amy oversees the growth and expansion opportunities for Heroes MAKE America – the Institute’s initiative to connect the military community with the manufacturing industry to build a pipeline of military-trained and industry-certified candidates.

This presentation defines control valves, explains what they do and describes typical control valve styles, including variations, types and applications. The discussion will also include valve sizing and selection, cavitation and flashing, and a brief overview of single loop controllers, control systems and pertinent safety standards.

Presented by: Brannon Gant, Control Valve Technical Sales, Setpoint Integrated Solutions, Inc. 

Brannon brings 30 years of expertise in process automation and control. He began his career at Dow Chemical in Plaquemine, LA and in 2000, he joined Dresser Masoneilan as the Regional Sales Manager for the Southeast US market. Over the past 23 years, Brannon has specialized in promoting and servicing Masoneilan Control Valve Products.

11:30 am – 2:00 pm

Networking Lunch with Exhibitors

2:00 pm – 2:50 pm

This presentation will discuss current trends in powder metal technology, current ASTM specs and acceptance in within ASME boiler and pressure vessel codes, and opportunities to demonstrate the technology. 

Presented by: Marc Albert, Principal Lead, Advanced Nuclear Technology, EPRI

Marc Albert

Marc Albert is a Principal Team Lead in the Advanced Nuclear Technology Department (ANT) at the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). Marc manages and overseas the research projects related to Advanced Manufacturing and Materials within the nuclear industry. His responsibilities include providing project management and technical support for (1) determining the optimal methods (including advanced manufacturing methods) for fabrication (2) identifying and developing new applications of materials, and (3) identifying and developing new or improved methods for joining, inspecting and maintaining piping and components.

Relying on first-party survey responses and audience insights from Gardner Business Media and Gardner Intelligence’s industrial network, the Industrial Buying Influence 2025 presentation examines motivations driving industrial buyer and buying behavior and offers practical takeaways for maximining the return on your sales and marketing efforts. Presentation will include a mix of survey and audience data, best practices and successful use cases all aimed at helping you achieve your brand and your business’s marketing goals.

Presented by: Dave Necessary, Executive VP, Marketing & Product, Gardner Business Media

Dave leads marketing and product development at Gardner Business Media with an emphasis on identifying and scaling digital, in-person and intelligence-based business and audience opportunities. His previous roles at Gardner Business Media span brand marketing, event management and audience insight, including serving as Director of Marketing, Director of Events, VP, Audience Engagement. Dave earned BA/BS/MA degrees from the University of Dayton. He currently resides in Cincinnati, OH, with his wife and two children. Away from work, Dave enjoys racquet sports, seeing live music, and answering questions about his last name.

This presentation defines control valves, explains what they do and describes typical control valve styles, including variations, types and applications. The discussion will also include valve sizing and selection, cavitation and flashing, and a brief overview of single loop controllers, control systems and pertinent safety standards.

Presented by: Brannon Gant, Control Valve Technical Sales, Setpoint Integrated Solutions, Inc. 

Brannon brings 30 years of expertise in process automation and control. He began his career at Dow Chemical in Plaquemine, LA and in 2000, he joined Dresser Masoneilan as the Regional Sales Manager for the Southeast US market. Over the past 23 years, Brannon has specialized in promoting and servicing Masoneilan Control Valve Products.

3:00 pm – 3:50 pm

This presentation will focus on advancements in coating technologies of thin film applications such as hydrogen and molten salt. 

Presented by: Fadila Khelfaoui, Corporate Engineer, Metallurgy, Velan, Inc.

Fadila Khelfaoui

Retaining quality employees is a top challenge facing our industry. The concepts to keep employees motivated, engaged, and contributing to your business success are surprisingly simple. Executing them, however, can be more difficult, especially in manufacturing work environments. Join this session for a data-driven deep dive that provides a roadmap to implement these strategies, proven to strengthen the performance of your frontline workers while increasing their job satisfaction. The end result is a safer, more productive workforce with greater retention. The best practices covered in this session are based on comprehensive research analyzing the training programs of 1,000+ manufacturing facilities.

Presented by: Dante Dominick, Sr. Director, Marketing, Intertek Alchemy

Dante Dominick

Solenoid valves are utilized for many different types of fluid control and fluid power applications. The question is, are you ready to learn all the different options available, plus understand when to use each one whether general purpose to critical safety requirements? Join us during this time slot to broaden your knowledge.

Presented by: John Molloy, Training Manager, Discrete Automation, Emerson

John Molloy has been involved in the industrial automation and process industries most of his career. He started with a sterilizer manufacturer in inventory control and then the last 24 years has been at ASCO in various roles from Inside sales, Sales Manager to Training Manager of two Emerson Business units, ASCO and AVENTICS. John has led a team of subject matter experts in developing online, virtual, and instructor-led training for a blended learning approach. He is a member of American Society of Training & Development and holds an A.S. degree in Business Administration. He is a member of the VMA Education & Training Committee.

3:50 pm – 4:20 pm

Networking Break with Exhibitors

4:20 pm – 5:10 pm

This presentation is delivered from an end-user’s perspective on how valves are integrated into fusion systems and discusses challenges valve designers and manufacturers should consider. 

Presented by: Jeff Parish, Principal Molten Salt Components Specialist, Commonwealth Fusion Systems

Enacted in 2021 as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Build America Buy America Act established domestic procurement for iron, steel and manufacturing for certain infrastructure projects receiving government funding. This session will cover results of the Act since 2021 and updates. This presentation takes a deep dive in the explanation and precise interpretation of the material categories (Iron & Steel Compliance, Manufactured Products, Compliance, Construction Materials Compliance). The goal is to provide clarity and assistance for Manufacturers, Specifiers and Customer/End Users on the navigation and understanding concerning the detailed BABAA requirements. Whether your company qualifies or doesn’t for Build America Buy America, or if you aren’t sure, this session will help explain what it means to you and the impact it is having.

Presented by: Dustin Painter, Partner, Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

Dustin Painter

Dustin Painter is co-chair of the Government Relations and Public Policy practice group. Dustin represents the interests of businesses, trade associations and other organizations before the legislative and executive branches of government. Dustin offers his clients a comprehensive approach to federal government relations initiatives that includes a substantive background in federal and state laws and in-depth experience with the procedures and forums that govern public policy advocacy.

As the business world experiences the dawn of generative artificial intelligence (AI) applied to numerous organizational functions, the transformational consequences remain uncertain in the area of sales, strategic planning, and account management.  We already have seen AI applied to marketing and sales in areas such as coaching and feedback, sales lead sorting and prioritization, personalization of sales presentations, automation of low value tasks such as data entry, lead research, order analysis, etc.  Clearly, AI will provide tools that enable sales function efficiencies, thus, freeing up sales teams to focus on high value activities and assisting in creating a superior customer experience.

However, AI will not be capable of substituting the management of customer/supplier relationships as relations occur between human beings.  The ability to leverage AI tools in sales will be dependent on how relationships with your key strategic customers are managed.  The purpose of this seminar is to review the relationship management plan structure we created for industrial equipment manufacturers, a proven process that drives organizations up the relationship status ladder with the ultimate goal of achieving trusted advisor status.

Presented by: Richard Santucci, President, S&H Strategic Sales Consulting, LLC

Richard Santucci

Before co-founding S&H Strategic Sales Consulting LLC and entering the consulting field in early 2020, Richard Santucci was the Global Key Account Director, O&G for Emerson Final Control (a business unit within Emerson Automation Solutions) and held the same position with Pentair Valves & Controls, a division of Pentair PLC acquired by Emerson Automation Solutions in 2016. Prior to Pentair Valves & Controls, Richard held several positions with Tyco Valves & Controls, (a business unit within Tyco Flow Control) including Vice President Latin America, leading all commercial and operational activities for the Latin America and Caribbean Region including sales, marketing, service and repair, valve automation and strategic planning activities. Prior to his Latin American post Richard held several general management, sales, strategic planning, and marketing positions with Tyco Flow Control. Richard entered the Tyco Flow Control organization as part of the acquisition of Varec Vapor Control where he initiated the Environmental and Biogas Business Unit. Richard also has extensive experience in the process control, instrumentation and analysis markets having held several sales and marketing positions with Teledyne Analytical Instruments. Richard holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in chemistry from California State University, Los Angeles, is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Networking Night Out @ Cuba Libre (Ticketed Event)

7:30 am – 8:30 am

Continental Breakfast

8:00 am – 8:50 am

This session will discuss the use of nitinol as a new technology for actuator miniaturization, vibration dampening, and durability in valves. 

Presented by: Joe Kellogg, CEO & Founder, Kellogg’s Research Labs

Joe Kellogg

A 12-year veteran in the Army, Joe has since led the rapidly growing KRL into the forefront arena of SMA technologies, assembling a vertically integrated company and a highly experienced team along the way.

9:00 pm – 9:50 am

Explore new advancements in magnetically driven valves, the history of development, and the exciting potential of how they can completely encapsulate fugitive emissions from the valve stem.   From high temperature to cryogenic; from high torque to control valves, learn the challenges and benefits of magnetically driven valves as we eliminate fugitive emissions from valves altogether. 

Presented by: David Yakos, CTO, MagDrive Technologies, Inc.

David Yakos

David Yakos is an inventor, artist, and mechanical engineer; developing everything from leak-free magnetically activated valves that contained cryogenic helium for NASA to high tech toys & games for fun.  He has been named inventor on over 50 patents, developed a prototype-of-the-year named by Popular Science and highlighted in Forbes Magazine as a leading creative.  With over 15 years of magnetic valve research, development and application, his goal is to eliminate fugitive valve emissions in places where leaks are not an option.  He is co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer of MagDrive Technologies, the pioneer of magnetically actuated valves providing emission-free solutions for oil & gas, cryogenics, petrochemical, aerospace and nuclear energy.  MagDrive aims to completely eliminate fugitive emissions that can be hazardous to personnel, harmful to the environment, or costly in terms of lost product. 

Export controls and compliance with the various U.S. regulations has long been a complex issue for exporters.  Determining agency jurisdiction and classification under the appropriate regulations is important to help you expand your global sales, differentiate you from your competition, and help avoid costly delays.

Presented by: Robert (Bob) Imbriani, Executive Vice President, International, Team Worldwide Global Logistics Solutions

Bob Imbriani

10:00 am – 10:50 am

This session outlines a structured approach to evaluating ball valve leakage performance in accordance with ISO 15848-1 and API 6D Annex M. The results of this study provide a detailed understanding of how different packing materials (Graphite and Reinforced PTFE) and test methods affect valve sealing efficiency under multiple test gases (Helium and Forming Gas made up of 5% Hydrogen and 95% Nitrogen), offering valuable insights into valve performance and reliability in various industrial applications.

Presented by: Ram Viswanathan, Director of Engineering – Ball Valves & Knife Gate Valves, Bray International, Inc.

Maximizing valve lifecycles, safe operations, and the overall quality of valve systems for customers necessitates a strong working relationship between OEMs and valve service and repair shops. But what does this look like in practice? And how can OEMs and repair shops work together to design for service and repair in mind? These are just a few of the topics discussed during this panel discussion. 

Presented by: Chris Jones, Director of Final Control Services, Midwest Valve Services

Chris Jones

11:00 am – 11:50 am

This presentation will provide an update to U.S. industry standards organizations as well as international (ISO) standards, and their corresponding published valve standards. Three Industry organizations will be covered including ASME B16 Codes and Standards, API Refining and Manufacturers Standardization Society, and MSS. Important revisions to current and new standards covering valves, flanges, piping components, and quality procedures will be discussed.

Presented by: David Bayreuther, Head of Ball Valve Product Line, Valmet Flow Control

David Bayreuther

David Bayreuther works for Valmet Flow Control, currently leading Product Management.  A graduate of Northeastern University with a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He has been working in the valve industry for 43 years.  His career started as a valve engineer at General Dynamics Electric Boat division designing, developing, testing, and repairing valves for nuclear submarines.  Mr. Bayreuther has been with Valmet (formerly Neles-Jamesbury and Metso) for over 30 years, leading engineering and product management.  He is active in standards development organizations and is a member of the API subcommittee for piping and valves, Chair of ASME B16 subcommittee N, member of US Technical Advisory Group to ISO valve and actuator standards and is President of the Board of Directors of the Manufacturers Standardization Society.  Mr. Bayreuther has published and presented technical papers on casting quality, valve pressure testing, fugitive emissions, and service.  He has previously presented multiple times at Valve World, at API Tank, Valve and Piping Conferences, Industrial valve Summits, and at VMA Technical Conferences.  He resides with his family in a small town close to Boston, Massachusetts.

An understanding of the Harmonized System is essential for Importers and Exporters alike. Proper classification under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule or Harmonized Schedule B is a regulatory requirement under the Customs Modernization Act and export control regulations and is important to understand in order to avoid fines, penalties, overpayment of duties, and other regulatory compliance problems.

Presented by: Robert (Bob) Imbriani, Executive Vice President, International, Team Worldwide Global Logistics Solutions

Bob Imbriani

12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Industry Tour at Toho Water Authority (Ticketed Event)

Sessions

Quick Links to Conference Sessions by Track:

Tracks

Manufacturing Icon

Manufacturing

Developed for those who work or supervise the production and assembly process in their companies. Sessions may focus on topics such as supply chain and sourcing, workforce training and hiring, predictive maintenance, robotics, EHS and sustainability reporting, automation, etc.

Presentation Topics

  • PFAS Reporting Update: How to Collect, Analyze & Submit Your Data (Joint with Technical and Business Management Tracks)
  • Build America, Buy America – Opportunities, Considerations and What You Need to Know in 2025 (Joint with Business Management Track)
  • How to Keep Employees Engaged, Motivated, and Contributing to Your Success (Joint with Business Track)
  • Navigating the Basics of U.S. Export Controls (Joint with Business Management Track)
  • Tariffs: Classifications & What to Know about Duties, Fees, and Country of Origin Requirements (Joint with Business Management Track)
  • 2025 U.S. Industry Standards Update (Joint Session with Technical Track)  
Technical Icon

Technical

Developed for experienced technical and engineering personnel from manufacturing companies, channel partners/distributors and end users who develop, specify, use, sell and problem solve. Presentations may focus on industry standards, regulatory and compliance, testing and evaluation, applications, automation, cyber and digital trends and impacts, and case studies of successful projects.

Presentation Topics

  • Case Study on Plug Valve Failure
  • Emerging Trends in Valve Automation
  • Powdered Metal Technologies
  • Advancements in Coating Technologies
  • Magnetic Applications for Fugitive Emissions Reductions
  • Nitinol for Valves
  • Immersive Technology in Training & Inspection
  • Case Study on Accessory Failures in Valve Systems
  • Valve Leakage Performance and Evaluating the Impact of Packing, Test Gases, and Test Methods
  • High Temperature Design Considerations
  • Stem and Shaft Force Monitoring in the Nuclear Industry
  • 2025 U.S. Industry Standards Update (Joint Session with Manufacturing)
Business Management Icon

Business Management

Developed for those in management and marketing roles to provide insights from peers and colleagues on trends and best practices. Sessions may include topics like Google Analytics, building your brand, data driven decisions, using AI, human resources, and leadership, etc.

Presentation Topics

  • Build America, Buy America – Opportunities, Considerations and What You Need to Know in 2025
  • Navigating the Basics of U.S. Export Controls (Joint with Manufacturing Track)
  • Tariffs: Classifications & What to Know about Duties, Fees, and Country of Origin Requirements (Joint with Manufacturing Track)
  • How to Keep Employees Engaged, Motivated, and Contributing to Your Success
  • Generative AI to Drive Efficiencies – Relationships Can Only be Driven by Humans
  • Military Veterans and the Manufacturing Industry
Valve Fundamentals Icon

Valve Fundamentals

With newly updated content in 2025, this track is perfect for those in the early stages of their careers, are new to the industry, work in the industry in nonmanufacturing roles, or just need a broad understanding of industrial valves. This track covers the major types of industrial valves and provides an overview of actuation. Sessions are based on VMA’s highly popular and regarded “Valve Basics” program, which presents information on valve types, their purpose and benefits, and applications, all in a non-proprietary way.

Presentation Topics

  • Introduction to Basic Valve and Actuator Types
  • Introduction to Check Valves
  • Introduction to Solenoids
  • Introduction to Control Valves & Systems

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