This year marked the 20th anniversary of our society. I can’t help but think of the small group of four individuals, who worked together for a common cause and had the vision to form an organisation that would bring people from different interest groups together to support the growth of trenchless construction from engineering, municipal, contractor, vendor and student points-of-view.

We can be thankful for the volunteers who made the time available to be active in an organisation that today has become the most successful of all of ISTT’s affiliated societies with over 1,000 members, nine regional and twelve student chapters in North America.

As we look to the next 20 years and beyond, it is important to remember the ideals upon which the Society was founded. Despite the highs and lows, the advances in technology and the changes in leadership, the mission of the society has remained constant: to educate and promote the Trenchless Technology industry.

The educational efforts have taken root on some levels – the general awareness of Trenchless Technology among the engineering and municipal sectors has certainly advanced beyond where it was two decades ago.

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As the use of trenchless became more widespread, the cost-effectiveness aspect helped its appeal. Now, in an increasingly environmentally conscious culture, the ‘green’ aspects of Trenchless Technology are helping its continually increasing acceptance and use.

Moving forward, NASTT will continue to play a role in the development of Trenchless Technology because of its unique position in the marketplace. The Society is a very well integrated group that manages to represent all sectors – from the owners to the professional engineers to the technical providers of equipment and suppliers of the pipes.

The culture of volunteering and commitment to the greater good of the trenchless industry is the hallmark of NASTT. We have strong, active leaders on the Board of Directors and on our committees. George Ragula is set become our new Chairman in January.

While this is my last official letter as Chairman, I can assure you that I will remain involved with NASTT. I conclude my remarks by emphasising the rewards I have personally received by being associated with the number and quality of individuals who have taken up leadership and support responsibilities. Again, I couldn’t be more thankful for this opportunity to serve, and I look forward to the continued growth in our society and the industry at-large.