Steven R. Kramer has spent most of his professional life exploring, researching, developing, implementing and promoting the industry of trenchless technology — even before there was a name for the fledgling industry in the early 1980s.

Irene McSweeney Woodfall describes herself as a “quiet advocate” for trenchless technology. But her professional actions over the last 18 years reveal otherwise.

Over the past 25 years, Mark Wallbom has developed a knack for reinventing companies. From the college campus to the corporate board room, he’s polished a passion for organizational development, helping struggling companies find new direction and fresh markets.

For years, Ray Sterling’s daily workload has been composed of one fundamental task, especially after taking the directorial reins of Louisiana Tech University’s Trenchless Technology Center (TTC). As an industry figurehead in the trenchless arena, which is more than evident by the droves of titles that often proceed him, Sterling has strode to regiment and broadcast to municipalities, manufacturers and business professionals in the construction industry the benefits that trenchless technologies can offer.

As director of engineering for the Wastewater Management Division of the City and County of Denver, Joseph Barsoom directs the operation of a large multi-divisional engineering organization with 100 employees. Joe directs the planning, design and construction of engineering projects and is responsible for the use of new design and construction materials and methods for the division.

Trenchless Resources International Inc. is a young organization founded in a partnership of Dave Gellings and John Jurgens. Though only in their third year, the company represents the combined experience of more than 35 years in the wastewater industry, with nearly a decade of that experience gained as colleagues at a premier Northwestern sewer contracting company.

“It doesn’t do any good to have knowledge if you don’t share it with somebody.” That motto and the commitment to trenchless equipment design, training and education that it represents has driven Leo Barbera throughout his years in the industry.

His career started in 1958 when no one called it trenchless technology, and Bob Affholder has been upbeat and positive about the business from the beginning. In the 38 years since he started working as a laborer for Armco Industries Metal Products Division, Bob has seen the trenchless business grow from nothing into one of the most dynamic areas of construction. He has been responsible for some of the most dramatic changes that have occurred.

Any discussion of microtunneling in North America ultimately turns to BRH-Garver and Mike Garver, the pioneer who has done more than anyone else to bring the title of microtunneling capital of North America to Houston.

When Richard Thomasson began his engineering career some 25 years ago, he doubtless could not have conceived of his role in the interpretation and promotion of trenchless technology. Even the term was unheard of back in 1969.

Tom combines the traits of educator, researcher, contractor, and more. He moves easily in all three spheres, knowing the issues and problems confronting each and mastering most of them. Yet he avoids being confined or defined by any one of the roles.