Randy Knapp, Ph.D. is the Director of Engineering for the Energy Piping Systems of the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) responsible for the coordination of research, development of technical documentation, regulatory affairs, industry outreach, and marketing activities of the division. Knapp represents PPI members on many gas industry standards and code development organizations including: ASTM F17; CSA Z662 Clause 12; AGA Plastic Materials Committee; Plastic Pipe Data Collection Committee (PPDC), and the Gas Pipe Technology Committee. Knapp has more than 20 years of experience in the application of high-performance plastic piping systems, and was formerly the brand/product manager for UPONOR – USA, and the Engineering Manager for Wirsbo in North America. Knapp earned a BS in mechanical engineering from California State University – Northridge, an MBA from the University of St. Thomas (MN), and his Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota.