Ready to compete

Supplier development program sets small businesses “on a trajectory for growth and scale”

Phillips 66 hosted a graduation ceremony for the Blue Wave Supplier Development Program, which helps small businesses meet international standards in the energy industry.

Phillips 66 recently hosted the graduation ceremony for the Blue Wave Supplier Development Program, an American Petroleum Institute and Blue Wave initiative to equip a diverse collection of small businesses with the resources and international standards required to navigate the energy business 

“You help us deliver our mission of providing energy and improving lives,” Scott McRee, Phillips 66 vice president of Procurement, told Blue Wave graduates and alumni. 

Phillips 66 is one of a number of API member companies to sponsor the Blue Wave Supplier Development Program. The industry group launched the program in 2022. 

“The Blue Wave Supplier Development Program equips small businesses with the international standards used by large and complex businesses across industries,” said “Allison Weinberg, Senior Manager, API. “By completing this program, they have set their companies on a trajectory for growth and scale.” 

The 30-member cohort underwent six months of learning across seven areas which included safety, cybersecurity, quality, corporate policies, financials, technical capabilities and sustainability. Thanks to mentorship from Phillips 66 executives and others from across the industry, the graduates closed hundreds of business gaps and achieved an average 95% compliance rate against key international standards.

Paola Alvarado, President of CORE Boiler & Mechanical Services, LLC and recent Blue Wave graduate, said that the program has been a game-changer. 

“We now have structured policies, stronger compliance and a clearer roadmap for growth,” she said. 

Blue Wave alumni Libny Pineda, CEO of VEPIC Energy & Resources LLC, added that staying engaged with the community of like-minded professionals after graduation has provided ongoing access to new and emerging companies, cutting-edge technologies, and evolving industry trends, which allows him to stay competitive. 

“The knowledge gained from this program can directly impact your success,” he said.