Speaker: Christoph Berlin (Microsoft)

Abstract: 

Pipeline operators face increasing pressure to improve reliability, optimize operations, strengthen cybersecurity, and unlock new efficiencies through AI. Yet most organizations are balancing these priorities while managing decades of operational technology investments, mission-critical applications, and complex regulatory requirements.

In this session, Christoph Berlin will explore how Microsoft and AVEVA are helping midstream companies modernize at their own pace, meeting customers wherever they are on their digital transformation journey. Drawing on real-world examples from across the energy sector, Christoph will discuss practical approaches for connecting operational data, extending the value of existing investments, and creating a pathway to cloud adoption that delivers measurable business outcomes without disrupting operations.

The session will highlight how a modern cloud foundation enables greater visibility, collaboration, and decision-making across the pipeline lifecycle, while also preparing organizations to take advantage of emerging innovations such as agentic AI. Attendees will gain insights into how cloud, industrial data platforms, and AI can work together to enhance workforce productivity, improve operational performance, and accelerate time-to-value.

Key takeaways:

- Practical strategies for modernizing pipeline operations while protecting existing investments

- How Microsoft and AVEVA support hybrid and phased approaches to cloud adoption

- Examples of business value realized through connected operational data and cloud services

- The role of agentic AI in transforming operational workflows and decision support

- A roadmap for building a future-ready digital foundation for pipeline operations