Tuesday Sessions
Deep Dive ½ Day Afternoon
T1 Electrofusion Level 1
Want to obtain your EF card? Rick Ponder is a veteran trainer and expert in all things EF. This class is a full day and does require some online computer time before class. Registration is in addition to the Showcase base fee. This is always a popular class and space is limited. Passing a test is a requirement to obtain your fusion card. You do not need to pay for the Tuesday sessions if you sign up for this full day session.
Attendees will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pass the electrofusion certification test and obtain their EF card.
T2 Butt Fusion small diameter
Want to obtain your small diameter butt fusion card so you can talk butt fusion more competently? This course covers the basics of small diameter HDPE, including sizing, materials and installation. You will also learn about the latest technologies and techniques for working with small diameter HDPE pipes. This is a great class taught by the experts from McElroy. Registration is in addition to the Showcase base fee. This is always a popular class and space is limited. Passing a test is a requirement to obtain your fusion card. You do not need to pay for the Tuesday if you sign up for this full day session.
Attendees will learn the fundamentals of small diameter HDPE butt fusion, including sizing, installation, and the latest techniques for working with small diameter pipes, leading to certification.
T3 PE Certified Professional
This class is required for all current certified professional candidates and all those that have signed up for the 2025 year and those graduating in 2024. The program develops professionals and knowledgeable industry insiders to assist in the development of the PE market in the water and wastewater sectors. Please communicate with Alan Ambler or Peter Dyke ahead of time if you have interest in joining this group. Space is limited. There is an extra cost to participate in this program and it is charged annually. Two levels are offered, the Certified Professional and the Masters level.
Attendees will develop a deep understanding of the PE market in the water and wastewater sectors and the role of a certified PE professional in advancing this industry.
T4 Fusion Types, Procedures and Applications
This is an intro class for people interested in learning how we fuse HDPE pipe and connect the pipe. Butt fusion, electrofusion, socket fusion, sidewall fusion and low pressure pipes like Spirolite, SnapTite and Weholite will all be covered. We will also discuss mechanical connections like the MJ, the Megalug and mechanical saddles.
Attendees will understand the various types of fusions, including butt fusion, electrofusion, and mechanical connections, and how to apply them to different HDPE pressure pipes.
T5 Top Ten Resources
There has been a lot of work done by those that have come before us. Knowing where to go to find their efforts like standards, notes, reports and specs can make you the go to person in your company. This 50-minute session is devoted to the top ten technical resources in the industry. It will include a discussion of PPI, ASTM, PE Alliance, AWWA, APWA, NASTT, ASCE and other organizations that publish documents and standards and therefore influence our industry.
Attendees will learn how to identify and leverage the top technical resources and standards in the HDPE industry to become a valuable technical resource within their organizations.
T6 Trenchless or Less Trench?
The four major trenchless methods will be presented. They include pipe bursting, HDD (horizontal directional drilling), sliplining and compression fit technology. How and why each one is used will be addressed and the advantages of HDPE pipe in each of these methods will be explained in detail. Want to assist your customers in selecting an installation method? If so, then you need this class.
Attendees will explore the four major trenchless installation methods and learn to select the most appropriate method for various HDPE applications.
T7 Major Pipe Types by Market
This is the first time for this session. In the 9 major markets, the pipe types that are used in each market will be discussed. The share of each will be generally presented and the attributes of each pipe type will be discussed. Pipes covered will be cast iron, ductile iron, HDPE, PVC, FPVC, concrete, reinforced concrete, Hobas, fiberglass, clay and steel. Do you feel you need to know what types you are up against in your markets, then you may find this class valuable. This class is repeated on Friday morning.
Attendees will gain a comparative understanding of the key pipe types used in municipal water and wastewater systems, including pros and cons, to better compete in the market.
T8 New to PE – Machine Time
A valuable component of the “New to PE” series, this is the practical session where delegates can learn how to use the equipment fuse on a McElroy machine, operate an EF machine, conduct a side bend test, work the Datalogger and squeeze off pipe. The session is held in Showcase Hall before during the set-up process. Experts will be on hand to help you with each machine you choose to work with.
Attendees will receive hands-on experience with essential PE machinery, including fusion machines and testing equipment, gaining practical skills for real-world applications
T9 Above Ground Installations
During Covid, the PE Alliance introduced this presentation to its webinar audience and over 325 people listened in. Above ground covers temporary bypass, temporary water during pipe bursting, bridge crossing, temporary construction conditions, canal conversions, and permanent placements. Details covered include viscoelasticity, thermal effects, anchors, surge, ambient temperature and pipe supports.
Attendees will learn about the considerations and best practices for above-ground PE installations, including temporary and permanent setups and addressing thermal and mechanical effects.
Wednesday Sessions
Deep Dive Full Day
W1 Hydraulic Butt Fusion Training
In this full-day class, students will gain the understanding and skills necessary to properly operate a McElroy hydraulically operated fusion machine. While this skillset is an essential component of any fusion jobsite, the knowledge and understanding is also beneficial for those whose primary role is to PE pipe and/or equipment. This class will cover both TracStar®, rolling, and other hydraulically operated fusion equipment that cover pipe sizes from 2” IPS to 20” OD. Advanced topics such as in-ditch fusion, proper jobsite setup and more will also be covered. Registration is in addition to the Showcase base fee. Issuance if a Qualified Operator credential is dependent on the student passing both a written and hands-on test.
Attendees will acquire the knowledge and skills needed to operate McElroy hydraulic fusion equipment, preparing them for fieldwork and certification as qualified operators.
W2 Accountability Triad
Over the last few years, the Alliance has consolidated a series of industry best practices into a single presentation that covers all of the things that should be considered by the design professional or owner to ensure HDPE pipe is going into the ground in the proper manner. This session covers the Process, Training and Verification in detail.
Attendees will learn how to ensure the integrity of HDPE pipeline installations by understanding the accountability triad and the role of the DataLogger and McCalc in quality control.
W3 Water System Basics
Alliance civil engineer Alan Ambler PE perfected this class for the webinar program and it has received excellent reviews. This session starts with the structure of municipal government and addresses how and why they govern and procure products. It then addresses the major elements of water and wastewater systems including: water sources, water transmission, water treatment, water distribution, water disinfection, waste water collection, force mains and WW treatment. This is a 2.5 hour class with a break in the middle.
Attendees will gain a foundational understanding of municipal water and wastewater systems, including key components like water sources, treatment, distribution, and collection.
W4 HDPE vs DIP
Dustin Langston WL Plastics will take you down the direct comparison road so you will be able to explain the key differences between these two products. Materials properties, market forces, failure mechanisms and practical tips. This session is always a favorite. Originally developed by industry veteran Harvey Svetlik, this class was not taught in 2023. Dusty Langston teaches it solo and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats for 50 minutes. Fellow engineer Richard Brand will provide the real world view of what it is like to manage a system full of ductile iron pipe that fails prematurely. This is a 90-minute session.
Attendees will develop the ability to compare HDPE and ductile iron pipes, understanding their material properties, failure mechanisms, and market dynamics.
W5 ID Matching
Common statements from the usual PVC and DIP suspects claim that the interior diameters (ID) of all types need to match in order to keep the system flowing properly. The Alliance has distilled this concept to the easy to understand phrase ID Matching. This 75-minute session will give you the tools you need to tackle this argument with confidence.
Attendees will learn to confidently address industry claims regarding interior diameter matching and how it affects system flow, ensuring optimal performance in piping systems.
W6 New to PE I – History of Innovation
This class has been taught several times over the years and covers the evolution of the pipe, resin and HDPE pipe industry. It will address who did what, when they did it and how the various PE markets in North America have evolved. Multiple speakers contribute to this session.
Attendees will learn about the evolution of PE resin and the HDPE pipe industry, gaining insights into how the market has developed and where it is headed.
W7 9 PE Markets Defined
PE pipe is common in nine markets and dominates 5 of them. But why not all? Learn about each market, why they use pipe and what pipe types PE competes with in each segment, what each of the markets is and how HDPE is used in each market. Multiple speakers contribute to this session 90 minute session.
Attendees will explore the nine markets where PE is used and understand why HDPE is dominant in some and faces competition in others, providing a broad view of industry dynamics.
W8 New to PE II – Concepts & Vocabulary
This class has also been taught several times over the years and always receives great reviews. It is essentially the HDPE 101 that has evolved over the last 13 years. Second in the “New to PE” series, this class covers basic and intermediate concepts and the vocabulary necessary to become a proficient member of the industry. This 75-minute session uses quite a few videos and images to illustrate key points.
Attendees will learn the essential concepts and vocabulary of the HDPE industry, helping them to communicate effectively and perform competently in professional settings.
W9 Side Bend and Pressure Testing w/ DL7
The key elements of the accountability triad will be addressed in detail. Although this is only a 75 min session, you will develop an understanding of how to conduct or use each of these processes and why you should do so. This is a perfect session for both the new and experienced person to the industry. The participant will be able to explain what the side bend test is and why it works, what the proper procedure to effect a field pressure test of a pipe string is and how to operate and read a DataLogger. Multiple speakers contribute to this session 75-minute session.
Attendees will learn the procedures for conducting side bend tests, field pressure testing, and using DataLogger systems to ensure pipeline integrity.
Thursday Sessions
Showcase Premier Day
Th1 PE Alliance update
Join Alliance Executive Director, Peter Dyke for an update about the various programs the Alliance operates. Specific topics of interest will include membership, the engineering program, cases, key wins, leads, the roadshow program and an evolving trade show program.
Attendees will receive updates on the latest developments within the PE Alliance, including new programs, initiatives, and successes that impact the HDPE industry.
Th2 New to PE III – Hall Demos
This casual session in Showcase Hall is a great session for those that want to see all the various items in Showcase Hall demonstrated. Butt fusion, electrofusion, repair, bead trimming, the service display, squeeze off, side bend test and others will be presented. Next set of sessions start at 10:00 AM. Take as much time as you like, Showcase Hall open until 11:00 AM.
Attendees will experience live demonstrations of key HDPE technologies, such as fusion equipment and testing procedures, to enhance their practical understanding of the tools used in the industry.
Th3 Datalogger 7
Mike Pacheco of McElroy Manufacturing has given this several times, but it keeps getting more interesting now that the DL helps to run the new I series line of hydraulic fusion equipment. Mike will discuss recent advancements including the work flow benefit, the cloud’s role, the iSeries and reasons to use this game changing product and system. This year he will bring a couple case examples of how DataLogger has transformed the jobsite.
Attendees will learn about the advancements in Datalogger technology and how the cloud and new workflows are transforming fusion job sites, including case studies of its application.
Th4 HDD – A Contractor’s Perspective
The Schumchyk brothers (Haugland Group) are well known HDD drillers in the New York area and they have agreed to give a talk on HDD, what to look out for on the jobsite and they will share a few stories about current projects. They are key drillers on the well-known Champlain Hudson Power Express which is bringing hydro power from Quebec to Queens. HDD with HDPE pipe is a key element to this 336 mile, $6B project. This is a 75-minute presentation. Attendees are encouraged to sneak into the already, in progress Th4 Advocate Panel when this session ends.
Attendees will gain insights from experienced contractors on best practices and lessons learned in horizontal directional drilling (HDD) projects using HDPE pipe.
Th5 Advocate Panel
The bread and butter of the PE Alliance series of programs includes helping municipalities achieve higher levels of use. Two HDPE users from munis that have taken advantage of Alliance knowledge will discuss their experiences. This is a 50-minute session hosted by veteran HDPE user, Richard Brand from New Jersey.
Attendees will learn from municipal HDPE users about how they have implemented HDPE solutions in their infrastructure, providing real-world insights into the benefits and challenges faced.
S5 Harco Plenary Awards Lunch
The first time the entire group will be together is for this award lunch on Thursday at noon. The Awards Lunch will be held in the Windfall Dining room on the main floor. Thank you to Sean Tully for sponsoring the awards lunch for the third time in three years.
Th6 What is Big Pipe Today?
The many facets of 48” and above pipe will be presented. Attention is given to this market segment because if the user community knows we make Big Pipe, the decision to use smaller diameters is made easier. In fact, most of our competitors do not make pipe as large as we do. Attendees will learn about the unique features and benefits of these large pipe and the markets they serve.
Attendees will explore the features and applications of large-diameter HDPE pipe and how its use can influence market decisions regarding smaller pipe sizes.
Th7 Plastics Pipe Institute Update
The president of PPI, David Fink, will provide an update on the issues PPI has addressed over the last couple of years and what is on the horizon for this significant entity in the plastics world.
Attendees will receive an update on current trends, challenges, and future directions for the plastics pipe industry from the perspective of the Plastics Pipe Institute.
AM and PM Breaks
Sponsored by: Improved Piping & GF Piping Systems
Breaks are held each morning and afternoon all week long. This is where you get your chance to get to know our sponsors is in Showcase Hall. All AM and PM breaks are in Showcase Hall with all kinds of beverages and food served. Raffle pulls also occur during that time. We are as committed to networking time as you are so stop in Showcase Hall and take in a demo and talk to your colleagues.
Many thanks to Deron Zeppelin from IPP for sponsoring the AM breaks on Wednesday and Thursday and Friday. The afternoon breaks are also greatly appreciated and we also thank Andy Carr and the GF Piping sales team for hosting each of the afternoon breaks. The special afternoon break of the week is on Thursday when Klondike bars will make an appearance in Showcase Hall. Thank you to Deron and Andy!
Th8 Case Studies 7 x 7
This is the second time the Alliance has approached education by solely talking about HDPE projects. 7 different projects will be given 7 minutes each. Special attention will be paid to unique applications that highlight the features and benefits of HDPE pipe as compared to legacy pipe types. Learning about these projects will help your understanding of how and why HDPE is selected.
Attendees will learn from seven different HDPE project case studies, each showcasing unique applications that highlight the advantages of using HDPE over legacy pipe systems.
Th9 Top 10 Engineering Questions
Over the last few years, the Alliance has kept track of the most common questions that show up in cases and leads and during our many events. Each one of the issues will be covered in detail to ensure that you are equipped to handle these queries on your own.
Attendees will learn how to effectively answer the most frequently asked engineering questions related to HDPE, enhancing their expertise and value in technical discussions.
Th10 Redneck Engineering
Originally debuted in Phoenix two years ago, Redneck Engineering is a review, with examples of what it takes to get pipe in the ground safely and to specification What the engineer asks for is one thing, what it really takes is another. Veteran HDPE field guys David Mosier and Chris Weight along with engineer Stephen Boros will bring this popular session to life. This is a 75 minute session.
Attendees will learn practical field engineering tips for safely and efficiently installing HDPE pipe, overcoming real-world challenges that may differ from theoretical expectations.
Th11 Microplastics, Chlorine and PFAS
These three issues seem to capture the attention of the public, the press and the competition. Industry experts will explore these issues, provide the facts and equip you with the knowledge you need to discuss and even argue counter points. They are not going away so it is probably time to learn what to say and how to say it.
Attendees will gain an understanding of these emerging environmental issues, learning how to communicate and address concerns regarding HDPE’s role in these discussions.
Friday Sessions
Showcase Premier ½ Day
F1 Two Groundbreaking BIG Pipe Projects
This 50 minute session will look at two groundbreaking big pipe projects that have put competing pipe types on notice that HDPE pipe is in the large diameter, higher pressure water market. Both are 54” DR 11 projects with one being strictly HDD in Ft Lauderdale and the other being both open cut and HDD in Hampton Roads VA. The previous record for an HDD was 54” Dr 17 five years ago in Miami Beach so the fact that we are producing PC 200 pipe and drilling it at this large an OD is both game changing and market shifting.
Attendees will learn about two innovative large-diameter HDPE pipe projects and how they are reshaping the market for high-pressure water applications.
F2 Open Cut – A Contractor’s Perspective
Open cut construction has traditionally been the most under covered installation methods in the industry given the tremendous competitive advantage of trenchless. Yet, open cut remains the most frequent installation method at 50%. Join PEA experts as we hear from an open cut expert on how he bids, installs and inspects open cut work.
Attendees will learn best practices for open cut installation methods, which remains one of the most common techniques in the industry despite the rise of trenchless methods.
F3 Inspection Strategies
One of the concerns engineers have when they specify HDPE is how is it inspected. Join us as we hear from early adopter and industry veteran, Dave Stewart as he reviews how he inspects pipelines, fusions and HDPE projects.
Attendees will learn how to inspect HDPE pipelines and fusions to ensure quality and compliance with engineering standards.
F4 6 Legendary, Award Winning HDPE Projects
This fast paced 50 minute session will highlight 6 projects that have won awards from the PE Alliance in the past. They have stood the test of time as best in class for their installation method and uniqueness. The more we know of what has happened in the past gives us more ability to influence what happens in the future.
Attendees will gain insights into award-winning HDPE projects, learning best practices and innovations that have set new standards in the industry.
F5 Major Pipe Types Roundtable
In the 9 major markets, the pipe types that are used in each market will be discussed. The share of each will be generally presented and the attributes of each pipe type will be discussed. Pipes covered will be cast iron, ductile iron, HDPE, PVC, FPVC, concrete, reinforced concrete, Hobas, fiberglass, clay and steel. Do you feel you need to know what types you are up against in your markets, then you may find this class valuable. This is the same class that was given in more basic form on Tuesday.
Attendees will gain a comparative understanding of the major pipe types in the market, including their pros and cons, as well as how HDPE achieves a >100-year design life.
F6 Certified Professionals
This class is required to all current certified professional candidates. The program develops professionals and knowledgeable industry insiders to assist in the development of the PE market in the water sector. Please confirm your attendance with Alan Ambler ahead of time.
Attendees will further their development as certified professionals by gaining advanced knowledge and skills necessary to promote the PE market in the water sector.
