Learning from Experience: Becht’s Expert Instructors Share Their Insights
At Becht, technical training isn’t just about presenting information—it’s about passing on decades of experience, lessons learned in the field, and real-world applications that go beyond manuals. Our instructors are more than teachers; they’re engineers, consultants, and subject matter experts (SMEs) who have spent their careers solving industry challenges around the world and across multiple disciplines, positions, and technologies.
Many of them continue to mentor students long after their courses end, ensuring that the knowledge they share has a lasting impact. Here’s a look at some of Becht’s expert instructors, their approaches to teaching, and what makes their courses unique.
Bringing Refining Concepts to Life
For Mike Bober, teaching the Fundamentals of Refining is about making the big picture understandable. After over 30 years with ExxonMobil and additional years in consulting as a Senior Training Advisor, he’s seen firsthand how complex refining concepts can seem overwhelming. His goal is to change that.
“Refining doesn’t have to be complex, mystical, and magical. It’s simply logical,” Mike explains. Many of his students walk away from his course with a new sense of clarity. One of the most rewarding moments for him is hearing, “That was really good! Now I want my whole staff to take it!”
And Mike stays connected with his students beyond the classroom, often giving out his business card and mentoring those who seek further guidance. “They keep coming back—and recommending our course to others.”
Lessons with a Lasting Impact
Becht instructors see their courses not only as training sessions, but as opportunities to make a tangible difference in their students’ workplaces.
Jeff Johns, who teaches Hydrotreating and Hydrocracking, recalls a private course he taught at a client site that led to ongoing discussions about troubleshooting and optimization across multiple refinery units. His students often leave his class with pages of ideas to implement. “Most students leave with a list of goals. One refinery updated its shutdown procedures after learning about the dangers of nickel carbonyl exposure in my class. Now, several others have followed suit.”
For Brad Palmer, who teaches Catalytic Reforming, the most valuable outcome of a training session is seeing engineers apply what they’ve learned. “If an engineer leaves my course with ideas to improve their units, I consider that a success.” He emphasizes monitoring, troubleshooting, and best practices, ensuring that what he teaches isn’t just theoretical—it’s actionable.
Beyond the Textbook: Real-World Application
One of the distinguishing factors of Becht’s courses is that they are taught by people who have spent decades in the field. For example, Trevor Seipp—who leads Design by Analysis for ASME Section VIII, Division 2—is a member of the ASME Code Committee responsible for writing the rules he teaches.
“This is the only course in the world on this topic taught by a current member of the Code Committee,” he explains. That level of insight allows his students to stay ahead of the industry. “I help participants stay 1-2 years (or more) ahead of those who simply read the Code rules.”
Trevor’s connection with his students doesn’t stop when the course ends. “Many have followed up years later, either with technical questions or by joining our ASME Code Committee. Some have even just come to work for Becht.”
Similarly, John Richert, who teaches API 571 Damage Mechanisms, doesn’t just lecture—he shares four decades of experience in materials and corrosion management. A former student shared, “The information I learned from John helped me make well-informed recommendations in the very next site turnaround I was supporting.”
Interactive Learning for Lasting Knowledge
Many of Becht’s instructors believe that engagement is key to effective learning. Maureen Brody, who teaches Technical Writing Basics, structures her course around discussion and hands-on activities.
“How can anyone learn to communicate if they’re just expected to sit and listen the whole time?” she asks. She makes sure her students practice what they learn, whether it’s structuring a report, using Microsoft Word tools efficiently, or understanding how to tailor communication to different audiences.
For Belal Hassoun, who teaches Fired Heaters/Combustion Technology, it’s all about energy: “I try to motivate and inspire my students rather than just talk to them.” His students learn about fired heaters, but they also gain the confidence to walk up to one and understand its safety challenges, energy opportunities, and operational requirements. And his enthusiasm extends beyond the classroom. According to Belal, “Sharing is caring! The best part of my job is seeing students surpass the teacher.”
The Value of Mentorship
It’s common for Becht instructors to see themselves as lifelong mentors. David Keen, who teaches Syngas and Mechanical Integrity, has worked on over 40 syngas plants across 17 countries. His course shares more than theoretical knowledge—it’s built on case studies of real equipment failures, giving engineers the tools to avoid similar issues.
For James Kleiss, who teaches Refinery Economics and Margin Improvements, mentorship is a core part of training. “Young employees need to be taught the basics, learn how to troubleshoot, and monitor their process units.” His approach is simple: keep it practical and discuss real-life economic decisions that impact refinery operations.
Trevor Seipp echoes this sentiment: “Some ‘experts’ like to be the hero that solves all the problems. I prefer a different model, where the ‘expert’ teaches everyone else to also be an expert.”
Looking to the Future
Becht’s instructors are constantly evolving their courses to keep up with industry advancements. Some, like Belal Hassoun, are integrating VR technology into training. Others, like Trevor Seipp, are preparing for significant ASME Code updates in 2025 that will bring once-in-a-generation changes.
For Edward Keitelman, who teaches Process Design Fundamentals, the future is all about ensuring young engineers get the foundational knowledge they need in an environment where experienced mentors are becoming harder to find: “You either stay ahead, or you fall behind.”
Despite the technical nature of their courses, many instructors see the human side of training as the most rewarding part. They take pride in the moments that go beyond the classroom, whether it’s an “Ah-ha!” moment, a follow-up question months later, or seeing a former student take on a leadership role. Becht’s instructors are shaping the future of the industry—one course at a time.
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