The recent LatinCORR 2025 event, held at the Hilton Panama, became a showcase for the growth and influence of the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) in Latin America. Greg Muha, AMPP’s Director of Conferences, Exhibitions and Global Sponsorships, shared in an exclusive interview with Inspenet, the vision and strategies with which the organization is leading the technical and institutional advancement of the industry globally, with an outstanding focus on Latin America.
A regional event with global impact
The event far exceeded initial expectations, bringing together 251 participants from 24 countries, demonstrating the growing interest in the region in the topics of corrosion, coatings, asset integrity and material protection. Panama, as a strategic venue, is projected as a key node for AMPP’s regional growth.
In this context, the start of a new student chapter in Panama was also confirmed, which will join the 160 chapters that already exist in more than 150 countries. These chapters are essential for decentralizing knowledge, promoting access to resources and fostering technical collaboration networks.
Member-driven technical innovation
One of the keys to AMPP’s success lies in its model based on input from its 37,000 members. Greg Muha stressed that innovative ideas emerge from technical committees and communities of interest, on topics such as carbon sequestration, surface preparation or cathodic protection.
These initiatives are channeled into tangible products and services, such as certifications, publications, training programs and standards. AMPP acts as a catalyst and facilitator, enabling experts to generate value from their respective areas.
Training and certifications for a new generation
The promotion of continuing education and training is another pillar. AMPP has formed a new Labor Development Board focused on preparing future generations of engineers and technicians, although details will be announced soon, but further investment in programs that address market needs is anticipated.
Multi-certifications, which allow professionals to broaden their scope of action, are also being promoted. For example, a welding inspector could also be certified as a coatings’ inspector, taking advantage of his or her presence on site to fulfill both roles.
Alliances that enhance technical development
Collaboration with other associations is also a fundamental part of AMPP’s strategy, which is why they maintain active relationships with organizations such as the American Welding Society (AWS) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA), with the aim of complementing technical capabilities, avoiding duplication of efforts and developing joint solutions in critical areas.
These synergies not only improve the quality of international standards, but also allow for joint events and the exchange of knowledge between specialists from different fields, while reinforcing the impact of AMPP in critical sectors.
Sustainability, safety and user experience
Greg Muha emphasized that the three pillars guiding AMPP’s mission are sustainability, safety and operational security. These objectives are actively promoted by senior management, including CEO Alan Thomas, who maintains an active role in international forums and meetings with legislators and companies.
In parallel, AMPP has renewed its focus on user experience through studies and focus groups. The user experience team works to make interaction with the organization, whether through its website, courses, events or exams, more seamless and consistent.
A global network with local energy
The interview with Greg Muha makes it clear that AMPP is not just a generator of standards and events, but a global community working from the ground up to raise the technical and professional standards of the entire industry.
LatinCORR 2025 has been the most recent expression of this successful model of collaboration. Through the strengthening of regional chapters, investment in training, promotion of standards and development of alliances, AMPP continues to be an essential player for the future of materials protection.
For more content about LatinCORR 2025, please visit our YouTube channel and our LinkedIn profile.
Source: Inspenet.