Executive Sees GIS Evolving To Better Serve Pipeline Industry

Robert Brook is Pipeline and Gas Utility Industry Manager for ESRI, a private consulting firm that focuses on expanding GIS technology that pipelines and other utilities are finding increasingly useful as an operational tool.

With the dramatic increase in federal and state mandates in recent years designed to ensure regulatory compliance and integrity management, pipelines rely on GIS technology for data maintenance and operational management. This can include field data collection, environmental management, one-call management, land management, and right-of-way monitoring. GIS data and processes are available in the office, across the Internet, and in the field.

P&GJ: Where did you grow up and what were your interests?

Brook: I grew up in Calgary, Canada. Calgary is an interesting mix between the oil and gas culture and an outdoor enthusiast playground. I spent most of my youth golfing, skiing, mountain biking and learning, all in a competitive environment. I have seen many of my childhood friends turn into corporate peers. I believe the Calgary setting develops people with a desire to succeed, paired with strong connection to the environment and the world around them.

P&GJ: What made you decide to work in the energy industry?

Brook: Growing up, most of my friends’ parents worked in the oil and gas industry. I was no different - my dad is an exploration geologist. I witnessed first-hand the volatility of the industry. When I went to university I made a conscious decision to not be part of the industry. I studied business, geography, and botany with the intention of working in the environmental industry. A little later in life, after spending time working abroad, I found myself working for an engineering company and my transition to the energy industry began. Initially, I worked on a project-to-project basis, but eventually my focus became pipeline GIS. It seemed that the energy industry chose me.

P&GJ: What are the most challenging as well as rewarding aspects of your work?

Brook: My position at ESRI is extremely diverse. We deal with many different business requirements from a global perspective. Managing this diversity is challenging, but the position is very rewarding and provides a level of satisfaction that is incomparable.

P&GJ: How did ESRI get started and how has the company grown and changed through the years?

Brook: ESRI started 40 years ago as a consulting firm specializing in land use and environmental analysis projects with a focus on the analysis and organization of geographic data. After 11 years of project work, the company expanded its focus to include selling its software which integrated geographic data to help in the decision-making process. While the breadth of our suite of solutions has grown, our goals have remained the same.