By Michael Bournazian, Eng., Newsletter Editor, ASQ Senior Member, Quality Management Professional, CSSGB with Rolls-Royce
As I had written in my February Corner, the first of two supplier conferences organized for the aeroderivative gas turbine (AGT) business sector of Siemens Energy Canada took place from March 3-4, 2026 in Houston, Texas. It was a great experience to be there, not only representing the committee who helped organize the conference, but also meeting representatives of many key North American suppliers to our business.
The conference took place at the Marriott West Loop by the Galleria, and the hotel as well as our co-organizers rockitfish went above and beyond to assure that the event went off smoothly. The two days were filled with presentations from Siemens Energy representatives, but also included plenty of opportunities for suppliers to ask questions and interact with company representatives, both during presentations as well as pre-established breakout sessions.
On the first night, an awards dinner was organized where four suppliers were given formal recognition for their contributions and achievements. Two of the four suppliers happened to be suppliers that I had actually worked with/audited in the past, so it was very fulfilling to see them not only getting their awards, but also knowing that they had continued to be valuable suppliers to our business.
The conference also gave me the opportunity to do something I had not done since 2019, which was travel to the United States. Although I would have preferred doing it under a more tolerable political climate, I am ultimately glad that I did go. That said, I am sure I will have a calmer experience with the April conference which takes place in Birmingham, U.K.
Here are a few pictures that I took during the conference . . .
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