Speaking the Same Language: Harmonization Kicks Off YEP Summit

The sixth annual Young and Emerging Professionals (YEP) Summit opened with a global conversation about speaking the same language — in this case, the language of harmonized standards.

Moderated by Abydee Butler Moore, president and CEO of Butler Gas Products, the panel featured Kristy Mastromichalis and Rob Early from the Compressed Gas Association (CGA), Philippe Cornille from the European Industrial Gases Association (EIGA), and Beth McCall of Chart Industries. Together, they explored how aligning technical standards across regions strengthens safety, streamlines operations, and fosters innovation throughout the compressed gas industry.

Why Harmonization Matters

Panelists described harmonization as creating a “common language” so that whether a cylinder is filled in Pittsburgh or Paris, everyone follows the same safety principles. Kristy walked through the role of the International Harmonization Council (IHC), which brings together four associations — CGA, EIGA, the Asia Industrial Gases Association (AIGA), and the Japan Industrial and Medical Gases Association (JIMGA) — to develop shared publications and avoid duplicating work.

Rob noted that while standards often emerge after a “bad day” in the industry, harmonization projects are chosen when technology and safety practices can apply globally without conflicting regulations. Philippe added an international perspective, explaining why some regions are more engaged in harmonization than others, and how multinational companies often carry these standards into areas without formal participation.

Lessons for Emerging Professionals

The discussion moved beyond technical details to practical advice for early-career professionals:

  • Jump in – Volunteer for work items, even if they feel outside your expertise.
  • Ask questions – No one expects you to know everything; learning the acronyms and processes is part of the journey.
  • Communicate well – Especially in global teams, making space for all voices is key.
  • See the bigger picture – Harmonized standards benefit not only large, global companies but also regional businesses and frontline workers.

Beth emphasized that participation in working groups builds valuable networks and accelerates professional growth, while Kristy reminded attendees that even the most seasoned experts were once newcomers.

Next Up at the YEP Summit

With the foundation laid on harmonization, the Summit will now turn to three other core areas of industry knowledge:

Session 2 – Safety by Design: How Standards Shape Our Workspaces (August 14, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM ET)
Safety is never an accident. Explore how decades of industry experience and data have shaped today’s best practices—from PPE to emergency response. Hear from industry leaders about how standards are developed and why they’re critical to protecting lives every day, and learn how YEPs can help carry forward a strong safety culture.

Session 3 – From Cylinder to Destination: Transporting Gases Safely (August 19, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM ET)
Take a 101-level dive into the journey of compressed gases from plant to customer. This session explains key transportation safety measures, common hazards, and the reasoning behind strict protocols—perfect for anyone seeking a clearer picture of industry logistics and safety in motion.

Session 4 – Fueling the Future: Innovation and Opportunity in Compressed Gases (August 21, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM ET)
Compressed gases are at the center of the future of energy, mobility, and sustainability. This session explores innovations in hydrogen, carbon dioxide, specialty gases, and beyond—highlighting new markets and how YEPs can take part in shaping the industry’s future.

As Abydee encouraged, attendees should debrief with supervisors or mentors after each session to identify ways to apply these lessons back at their companies. Whether you’re a “super expert” or just learning the lingo, the YEP Summit is a chance to grow your expertise, expand your network, and help lead the compressed gas industry forward.

The Compressed Gas Association (CGA) is the leading authority on safety standards for industrial, medical, food, and specialty gases and equipment. Since 1913, CGA has developed nearly 400 globally recognized standards, trusted by ISO, NFPA, the United Nations, and regulatory bodies worldwide. Representing members who support over 34,000 U.S. jobs and contribute more than $10 billion to the American economy, CGA advances safety, drives innovation, and fosters professional development across the compressed gas industry.