Koch Pipeline Company, L.P. today announced it will donate 225 feet of pipe valued at over $11,000 to Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT). The pipe will be used by students majoring in a new Pipeline Integrity Technology program designed to support the needs of the growing energy industry.

This new program at OSUIT enables students to develop the skills and knowledge required to be successful in maintaining and managing the world’s pipeline infrastructure. Students will use the pipe donation in realistic laboratory environments to solve challenging real-world scenarios. Major topics include assessing pipeline damage and risk, corrosion control, regulations, safety, design, and integrity management.

“What sets this degree program apart from others is its applied method of teaching.  We couldn’t do that as cost effectively without generous donations such as this one from Koch Pipeline Company,” said Joe Bartlett, an OSUIT pipeline integrity instructor and 25-year veteran of the pipeline industry. “Koch Pipeline is a valuable industry partner and we are very thankful for their commitment to quality education.”

The university has developed the program’s curriculum with the help of an advisory committee comprised of 17 industry professionals, including a representative from Koch Pipeline Company. OSUIT’s pipeline integrity program is the only two-year degree program in the United States that teaches both corrosion control and pipeline integrity management. It has a student-faculty ratio of 22-1.

“Beyond our pipeline operations, Koch Pipeline places great value on education. OSUIT’s focus on one-on-one instruction combined with seeking the best knowledge from industry experts will result in students being better prepared for the workforce right after graduation,” said Larry Van Horn, vice president of operations for Koch Pipeline Company, L.P. “This is something the entire industry needs, and we are excited to be a part of making it happen.”