ICYMI: RefComm Expoconference—why it's the diamond of downstream events

In this ICYMI episode of Oil & Gas Journal’s ReEnterprised podcast, downstream editor Robert Brelsford explains why the technical content he has repeatedly encountered at one refining conference continues to deliver practical value for professionals responsible for refining operations.

Drawing on more than 20 years covering the petroleum industry, he’s covered every facet of the refining operations, including delayed coking, fluid catalytic cracking, sulfur recovery units, and more.

Brelsford describes technical sessions where refinery peer presenters candidly share detailed case studies, including operational challenges, how issues unfolded in real time, and the best practices recommended for operators facing similar conditions—allowing attendees to leave with actionable knowledge directly applicable to daily refinery operations.

The episode also addresses the growing challenge of knowledge transfer as decades of hands‑on experience exit the workforce. Brelsford highlights targeted training and presentations designed for refinery personnel at all career stages, particularly newer operators who cannot rely on written documentation alone to replace lost unit expertise. Across training and technical sessions alike, the focus remains on real‑world solutions to real‑world problems, reinforcing safety, troubleshooting capability, and operational excellence long after the event ends.

“When I say RefComm is a diamond shining in an otherwise sea of what I’ll call cubic zirconia events, I’m not mincing words.”

“This globally attended event not only offers attendees the unique experience of walking away with actionable, relevant knowledge immediately applicable to daily operations of a refinery, it masterfully fosters a setting for attendees to form a life-long network of global colleagues focused on the same daily operational challenges.”

“Even in this climate where the industrial competitive streak seems to have swung to an extreme, you don’t find this at RefComm. You find camaraderie and connections with global colleagues willing to help from wherever they’re located, long after the event ends.”

“Where many industry events fall into the habit of finding a groove that stays on repeat year after year, the RefComm team somehow manages to keep mixing it up with content and experiences that I can describe as reliably consistent but also dynamically innovative and forward facing.”