Closing Knowledge Gaps: Vallourec Launches Knowledge Management Academy Program
First session dedicated to Heat Treatment Furnaces
At Vallourec, technical excellence is not just a goal, it’s a continuous journey. In early September, this commitment took shape with the launch of the Knowledge Management (KM) Academy, an ambitious program designed to close critical knowledge gaps and strengthen expertise across the Group. The first session, held at the Barreiro site in Brazil, focused on one of the most strategic areas in our operations: Heat Treatment, with a deep dive into Furnaces.
Why a KM Academy?
The initiative stems from a rigorous Knowledge Gap Analysis (KGA) conducted in 2024 with our Heat Treatment Process Community and key experts. This analysis mapped the entire value stream, from customer specifications to mechanical results, and identified three priority areas: Furnaces, Quench, and Refractories.
The findings were clear: knowledge in these domains was concentrated among a few experts, making it essential to accelerate training and knowledge sharing across regions.
A Strategic Approach to Expertise
The KM Academy is more than a training program, it’s a strategic lever for operational excellence. Its format combines theoretical sessions, hands-on activities, and practical assessments, ensuring that knowledge is not only shared but applied. Each cycle is led by Vallourec experts, trusted suppliers, and colleagues from different regions, creating a unique environment for collaboration and learning.
First Session Highlights
The inaugural session on Furnaces delivered three days of intensive learning. Participants explored topics such as:
- Global overview of Vallourec furnaces
- Troubleshooting and burner adjustments
- Thermocycles and their link to product performance
- Advanced furnace technologies presented by TENOVA
- Combustion automation and Level 2 systems
Building Careers, Sharing Knowledge
Beyond technical mastery, the KM Academy supports Vallourec’s Expert Career Program, reinforcing our culture of internal knowledge sharing and continuous development. By investing in people and expertise, Vallourec ensures that innovation and operational excellence remain at the heart of its strategy.
What’s Next?
With highly positive feedback, the first KM Academy session marks the beginning of a new chapter in knowledge management. Upcoming sessions will focus on Quench and Refractories, continuing the cycle of learning and collaboration that drives Vallourec forward.
Thanks to our trainers
Ricardo Junqueira, Rafael Braga, Damien Barbier, Guy Druart and Alessandro DellaRocca from Tenova.
