Field Training with OKM Americas: Gepard GPR in Action at Chevron

March 01, 2025

In February 2025, OKM Americas visited Chevron Pipe and Power in Pittsburg, California, for a full-day training session. The goal was to show how to use the OKM Gepard GPR 3D, a ground penetrating radar system that can scan deep into the ground and find hidden objects like pipes or cables. The training was led by Mark Harris, Vice President of OKM Americas. He explained the technology in a clear and practical way, helping the Chevron team learn how to use the system step by step in their own daily work.

Precise Pipeline Detection in Real Conditions

The training lasted about 6.5 hours and began indoors in a comfortable meeting room, where Mark Harris welcomed the Chevron team. To start the day, he gave a detailed and easy-to-follow introduction to the Gepard GPR system. With the help of product images, physical components, and clear explanations, Mark showed how the system works step by step. He explained the key parts of the Gepard, including how to assemble it, how the antenna system functions, and what makes this radar special compared to other GPR devices. The team learned about the technology behind ground penetrating radar. Mark also highlighted the unique strengths of the Gepard, such as its depth range, portability, and the ability to create detailed visual data. This indoor session gave the team a solid understanding of the system’s design and purpose. It was the perfect starting point to get ready for the hands-on part of the training outside.

Mark explains the OKM Gepard GPR 3D — Mark Harris explaining the key features of the Gepard GPR during the indoor session.

Out on Chevron’s test fields, the training shifted into practice. Mark invited the team to take the lead — they assembled the system themselves, powered it on, and followed his instructions step by step. He demonstrated how to perform a scan and then let the team run their own tests. In one of the test scans, they successfully detected an underground pipe, clearly visible in the radar data. This real-time discovery showed the accuracy and depth performance of the OKM Gepard GPR 3D in action. With each scan, the team gained more confidence in both using the device and interpreting the results.

Customer works with OKM Gepard — A Chevron team member captures a moment from the hands-on GPR training session.

Mark's test scan — Practical training at Chevron's test field using the OKM Gepard GPR 3D in real conditions.

Mark provided ongoing guidance throughout, helping with device setup, adjusting scan settings, and interpreting both 2D and 3D visualizations generated in the Visualizer 3D Studio software. By the end of the session, the team was not only confident in using the Gepard system independently — they also saw its potential to make daily pipeline locating work faster, safer, and more reliable.

3D Visualization Impresses the Customer

The team was especially impressed with the 3D visualization of the scan data. This feature is not common in most GPR systems and made it easier for them to identify pipelines and other buried objects with confidence. Mark Harris tailored the training to the team’s specific needs, explained the software step by step, and made sure everyone felt comfortable using both the hardware and the software in their daily work. The customer gave very positive feedback and appreciated the practical, hands-on support throughout the session.

Technology and Support You Can Trust

This training is a good example of how OKM works closely with customers. With advanced German-made technology and expert support from OKM Americas, companies like Chevron get the tools and knowledge they need to work better and safer.