Join our host and panelists for an open
discussion about Diversity in the field of NDT. This panel discussion will help
us investigate our own biases, educate us on inclusion challenges, and more
importantly, provide the opportunity to get your questions answered about
diversity and inclusion in our industry.
Dr. Ripi is a seasoned digital
transformation coach with over 30 years of experience in developing digital
systems and transforming businesses throughout Asia, Europe, and the USA. His
experiential diversity spans academia, fortune 500, and small businesses across
Asia, Europe, and the USA. Ripi has won several national and corporate honors,
authored 20 books, given over 300 lectures, and earned two patents. He is a US
delegate to ISO 56000, Chair of NDE 4.0 for the ASNT, and a member of several
university advisory boards. Ripi holds a Ph.D. in Engineering, a post-doc from
Georgia Tech, and an Executive MS in Business Strategy from RPI. In 2022, he
was awarded the Robert C McMaster Gold medal by ASNT for significant
contributions to the industry.
Emilie Peloquin has been in the welding/NDT industry since 2009. She
holds a degree in Applied Science and is trained in accordance to SNT-TC-1A
on VT, PT, MT, RT, ET, and UT. Emilie joined Olympus nine years ago and has
held positions ranging from technical support to product management, focusing
on ultrasonic, phased array, total focusing method, and other advanced
inspection technologies. As the Director for Global Advanced Product Support,
she’s involved in business and product development, supporting a variety of
applications across numerous industries.
Melanie Brewer is a Chief Inspector and Asset Integrity Engineer at INEOS Nitriles - Green Lake Site in Port Lavaca, TX. With a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Dayton, she began her career as an intern at BP/Ineos in 1992, eventually moving to a full-time role as a Process Engineer in 1995. Melanie's career at INEOS Nitriles has been diverse, having worked in Project Engineering and Construction Management before transitioning to Mechanical Integrity in 2006.
Melanie's contributions to the industry have been recognized through her current certifications as a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) and API 510 and API 570. Her 30 years of experience at the same facility have given her a unique perspective on optimizing the inspection program and maintaining the fixed equipment of an aging facility. Through her expertise and dedication, Melanie plays a key role in ensuring the continued safe and efficient operation of the INEOS Nitriles - Green Lake Site.
Francesca Litschewski is a Senior Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Engineer at Northrop Grumman with a wealth of experience and expertise in Ultrasonic inspection of composite materials. In addition to her core responsibilities, Francesca also holds prominent positions as the Chair Woman for Women in NDT Council of ASNT and as a Board Member of PriDA employee resources group at Northrop. She is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and has a Bachelor of Science degree along with a recently earned Master of Science degree in Data Science.
Francesca is passionate about creating inclusive and equitable work/life environments for all, particularly focused on women and the LGBTQIA+ communities. Her unwavering commitment towards this cause is not limited to her professional duties alone but is also evident through her active involvement in Pride organizations in her personal life. With her extensive expertise and dedication, Francesca is a valued asset to Northrop Grumman and a prominent figure in promoting diversity and inclusivity.