“You have decided to marry your professional life with a way to serve this great nation so we can live the lives that we’ve grown accustomed to,” said Wesley Hunt, a Houston native who is now serving his second term in Congress.

Corrosion remains one of the largest cost drivers in the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), estimated at billions annually. Yet, innovations are often siloed within individual programs or services.

As we gather in one of the world’s most important hubs for energy and infrastructure, let’s focus on the vital role our industry plays in protecting the assets that power, connect, and defend our communities. This year’s technical program delivers focused insights across the sectors shaping our global future.