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Meet the Team: Heidi Fanning

As part of the Meet the Team series, we are sitting down with AcuTech team members to learn more about their background, specialties, and how they are helping industry.

 

Today, we are talking to Heidi Fanning, Sr. Process Safety Engineer, who is based out of Salt Lake City, UT, US

I have worked primarily in two industries throughout my career; pharma/biotech and oil & gas and have experienced engineering from the viewpoint of development, manufacturing, projects and safety as both an owner and a consultant.  I believe this has helped provide context to the motivations of various departments and how PSM plays a role within each of them.

Over recent years, an increasing number of industries and companies have embarked on innovative endeavors and are new to PSM (e.g hydrogen, sustainable energy). As these projects scale, it becomes imperative to ensure the utmost safety and mitigate potential risks. Whether voluntarily or compliance-driven, implementing PSM programs has become a top priority. I assist these companies in developing and implementing comprehensive measures that prioritize process safety.  By assisting in this responsibility, they are equipped to devote their energies to the innovation, secure in the knowledge that their operations are fortified by robust safety protocols.

I think it’s critical to leave a resoundingly positive impact on the environment, community and people we encounter.  By taking proactive measures to prevent catastrophic failures, I actively contribute to fostering positive change through my work. These efforts reflect my commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our surroundings, supporting local communities, and prioritizing the future generations of individuals who are affected by our actions.

I would like to encourage more proactive PSM incorporation into earlier stages of engineering so that inherently safer designs, safeguards, chemical inventory, mechanical integrity, etc., are considered and discussed as part of the design instead of a reaction to it.

Outside of work, I enjoy yoga, crochet, watching documentaries, and laughing with my boys.

Working with industry experts at AcuTech keeps me curious and driven to deepen my knowledge outside of my focus areas.  I enjoy the exposure to different cultures and the opportunity to create meaningful connections with people across the globe.