Member Feature: Marissa Karl, Manager, Vaper Control Services, Buckeye Partners
How did you first become involved in the terminal industry? Share a bit about that journey.
I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after college—I was a generalist at heart, with degrees in mechanical engineering and business. Buckeye offered a fantastic opportunity through its Technical Associate Program, an eight-month rotational program that provided a crash course in key areas of the midstream oil and gas sector. It was an incredible way to learn the business and find a role that aligned with my skills. I started in maintenance oversight for vapor control equipment, spent some time in pipeline integrity, and eventually returned to vapor control in a project support and management capacity.
What is the best part of your job?
The people I work with—hands down. I’m fortunate to collaborate with incredibly experienced colleagues who are always willing to share their knowledge. As the industry matures, facilitating knowledge transfer has been both a learning opportunity and a way to ensure that valuable experience is preserved and shared across the company.
What advice would you offer to someone just starting their career at a liquid terminal company?
Learn what your customers, both internal and external, value and care about in order to be successful. Everyone needs something at the end of the day and ensuring that you understand why they ask for something, or what outcome is most valued, will ensure your success.
What would you say to a young person to encourage them to pursue a future career with a liquid terminal company?
I would say to give it a chance before you discount opportunities. The liquid terminal industry may not always make the press, but they certainly welcome eager minds with so many opportunities to grow, learn, and gain practical experience.
How have you seen the industry change over the course of your career?
It’s been fascinating to watch the conversation around electrification and renewables evolve. Early on, there was concern about the industry’s longevity, but that’s shifted toward a broader role in supporting the global energy mix. The industry has weathered many ups and downs over the past eight years, and while it’s been slow to adopt new technologies, the progress we’re seeing now is exciting.
How do you think the industry will continue to change over the next 5, 10, or 20 years?
I think we’ll continue to see greater integration of technology into the day-to-day operations of the industry. Uptake can be slow and expensive, but the dividends of investing in completeness and standardization of data, integration across platforms, and even deploying new hardware will be monumental.
What is your level of involvement with ILTA?
I’ve had the opportunity to partner with peers to publish a white paper on release prevention in Vapor Recovery Unit applications, with some of the recommendations integrated into manufacturers’ new unit designs. I’ve also had the opportunity to support an ILTA-backed initiative to field test Vapor Combustion Units under varying parameters, helping to support an industry petition in response to the new Gasoline Distribution Rule.
What’s your favorite part of being involved with ILTA?
The opportunity to meet with industry peers has been the best part of being involved with ILTA. I have learned so much from my peers on best practices and approaches to new or common problems, and it has been great getting to network across such a foundational industry.
Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d like to mention?
I love to run and backpack whenever I can. A long weekend in the woods does wonders to rest and recharge.