ATA Associates (ATA) was founded in 1974 by Robert Swint while he was working at NASA. From its inception, the firm focused on accident reconstruction and forensic engineering. Early work emphasized transportation and marine incidents, fields in which ATA quickly earned a strong reputation. Today, ATA is widely recognized and respected as a leader in forensic engineering investigations across complex and high-risk industries.
While the petrochemical sector has always been part of ATA’s practice, the firm is now pursuing strategic growth in this area. This expansion reflects the increasing complexity of petrochemical operations and the growing need for technically rigorous investigations when incidents occur.
A Long History of High-Profile Incident Investigations
Over the past five decades, ATA has been involved in numerous high-profile and technically challenging investigations. These experiences have shaped the firm’s approach to complex failure analysis and litigation support.
Notable incidents where ATA has participated include the Exxon Valdez oil spill, a major chemical explosion at a Celanese facility in Texas, and the Phillips explosion in Pasadena, Texas. The Phillips incident was particularly significant, as it contributed to the development of the Process Safety Management (PSM) regulations. ATA also played a role in the investigation of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill off the coast of Louisiana.
These cases highlight ATA’s ability to address large-scale incidents involving fires, explosions, environmental releases, and catastrophic equipment failures. Each investigation required careful analysis, coordination with multiple stakeholders, and defensible technical conclusions.
Comprehensive Petrochemical Incident Reconstruction
As part of its expanded focus, ATA provides detailed reconstruction of petrochemical incidents. These investigations may involve personal injuries or fatalities, equipment failures, fires, eruptions, and environmental releases. ATA’s engineers analyze physical evidence, operating data, maintenance records, and process information to determine what occurred and why.
In addition to reconstruction, ATA provides expert witness and litigation support when requested. This support extends to insurance carriers, attorneys, and corporate clients who require clear, well-documented engineering opinions. ATA’s work emphasizes technical accuracy, transparency, and alignment with established engineering principles.
This integrated approach strengthens petrochemical forensic engineering investigations and ensures conclusions remain defensible in legal and regulatory settings.
Strategic Partnerships to Expand Capabilities
To further enhance its petrochemical services, ATA is partnering with firms that bring complementary expertise. One such partner is Knighthawk Engineering. Knighthawk contributes extensive experience in plant repairs, failure analysis, and strategies to minimize downtime from unscheduled shutdowns.
Through this partnership, clients benefit from a broader range of services. Knighthawk focuses on rapid assessment and repair solutions, while ATA reconstructs incidents and provides expert witness and litigation support. Together, the firms offer a seamless approach that addresses both immediate operational concerns and long-term investigative needs.
Technical Leadership: Phil Johnson, P.E.
Phil Johnson, P.E., leads ATA’s petrochemical efforts from a technical perspective. Phil has more than 35 years of professional experience in the oil and gas and petrochemical industries. His background spans engineering design, construction, facility operations, and the use of high-fidelity process simulators and operator training systems.
In recent years, Phil has concentrated on applying artificial intelligence to understand and optimize operations. This expertise enhances ATA’s ability to analyze complex process data and reconstruct events leading up to incidents. Phil holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University and is a licensed Professional Engineer in multiple states.
His leadership strengthens ATA’s petrochemical forensic engineering capabilities and ensures investigations reflect both traditional engineering rigor and modern analytical tools.
Business Development Leadership: Smith Howland
Smith Howland leads ATA’s business development efforts within the petrochemical sector. Smith brings more than 55 years of experience in the industry. His career includes roles in plant operations and maintenance, capital project management, and senior commercial and executive leadership positions.
Smith also has significant international experience, giving him a broad perspective on global petrochemical operations. He holds Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University, as well as an MBA and a Master’s degree in International Affairs. Smith is also a member of Tau Beta Pi, a national engineering honor society.
His experience helps align ATA’s technical services with client needs and industry realities.
A Trusted Partner in Petrochemical Investigations
ATA’s expansion in the petrochemical arena builds on decades of investigative experience. The firm combines accident reconstruction, forensic engineering, advanced analytics, and litigation support into a cohesive service offering. This approach allows ATA to address both the technical and legal aspects of complex incidents.
For clients facing regulatory scrutiny, insurance claims, or litigation, ATA provides clear, defensible engineering analysis. With seasoned professionals and strategic partnerships, ATA continues to advance the practice of petrochemical forensic engineering.
Contact ATA Associates
For additional information about ATA’s petrochemical capabilities, contact ATA Associates today. Our team is available to visit your facilities, and we welcome visits to our office and laboratory in Clear Lake City (Houston), Texas. Learn how ATA can support your investigation, risk management, and litigation needs.
