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The idea to do a weblog for process engineers started with an interview at IAOCblog.com, hosted by the International Association of Online Communicators. It was in a Q&A with Joe Taylor, during IAOC's first week of blogging devoted to discussions about industrial companies.

We talked about how his two industrial websites PowderandBulk.com and WaterandWastewater.com have helped form a sense of community among his regular visitors, and I asked him if any of his regulars had sought to further the community spirit. He replied:

"Some of the regulars have suggested that we should build a tree house or start a club. There is a feeling among process engineers dealing with bulk solids that they don't have a way to congregate with their peers. There is no professional society focused on their field. Who knows, maybe a weblog could help serve that end."

So here's the tree. It's pretty bare right now, but you've got the tools to start building this community any way you want. Whether you are a designer of conveying systems, a user of process equipment, or a maker of bulk materials handling equipment, here is a place where you can tell us about what you do, how you do it and how it might be done better.

There are two ways you can add your own thoughts: You can comment on posts by others, and you can contact me, your moderator, to become an "author," which means you can be master of your own content. There are no dues for this club and you can subscribe for free to receive our feeds in your RSS news reader (learn more here about RSS) or subscribe to our email alerts.

If you need to get an RSS reader, try Bloglines or Newsgator. Both offer a number of ways to subscribe to and view your weblogs, including a personalized "my blogs" web page.

Of course like any voluntary association, the value your find here will be proportional to the effort you put into it. Become a regular reader, and you'll know a lot more about your industry and how your peers are solving similar problems. Comment on the thoughts posted by others, and you will become a more involved member of the community. Offer to post your own content, and you will come to be viewed as a leader in your community.

And while we want this club to serve your professional needs as process engineers, in the spirit of a true "tree house" we also want you to have some fun. Our "Gone Fish'n" section lets you share your favorite pass times and interests. We also know our readers are travel widely, for business and pleasure, and you're invited to share your favorite restaurants and travel tips or experiences.

For those attending the major trade shows, we invite you to vote on the best hotels and restaurants (and the best bargains) in the convention city and post your reviews.

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