Derek Potvin, P.Eng, Is the 2026 NASTT Hall of Fame Inductee

The North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) announces that Derek Potvin, P.Eng., is the 2026 inductee into the NASTT Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes Potvin’s decades-long leadership, technical contributions, and unwavering service to the trenchless industry and to NASTT.

Potvin, the 2022 Trenchless Technology Person of the Year, has always shown a deep commitment to advancing trenchless technology through education, mentorship and volunteer leadership.

Early Career

A civil engineering graduate of the University of Ottawa’s co-op program, Potvin joined Robinson Consultants Inc. (RCI) in 1990 and built a distinguished career spanning more than three decades. He served as president of RCI from 2010 to 2024. Additionally, he currently holds the role of executive chair of the board of directors. He continues to guide the firm’s strategic direction and mentor future leaders. 

Potvin was introduced to trenchless technology in 1995 at his first NASTT No-Dig Show in Toronto. This was an experience that sparked a lifelong dedication to trenchless solutions as sustainable alternatives for infrastructure renewal. Early in his career, he helped deliver a landmark sliplining project of a 36-in. water main in downtown Ottawa. This project demonstrated the economic, environmental, and community benefits of trenchless rehabilitation. At that time, such methods were still gaining acceptance. 

“Derek Potvin’s career exemplifies NASTT’s mission by advancing trenchless technology through education, training, and knowledge sharing while strengthening the society as a trusted voice for the industry,”  says Kevin Bainbridge, who nominated his co-worker. 

Volunteer Service

His volunteer service includes roles as treasurer of the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence, and Atlantic Chapter (2007–2017), member of the NASTT Board of Directors (2011–2016), board chair (2013–2014), and past chair (2015–2016). During his tenure as board chair, Potvin provided steady, principled leadership. He also helped guide the development of NASTT’s 2014 Strategic Plan. This plan established a framework to support the Society’s long-term sustainability and growth. 

“Derek conducts himself as a thoughtful professional in every setting,” said Frank Firsching, NASTT Chair 2017-2018. “He makes leadership look easy — when in reality, it is a rare talent in the business world.” 

Education and knowledge transfer have been central to Potvin’s impact. He is a co-author of NASTT’s Introduction to Trenchless Technology Rehabilitation Methods Good Practices Guideline and has served for many years as a Good Practices instructor. Additionally, as a frequent presenter at NASTT No-Dig Shows and international trenchless conferences, Potvin is widely respected for his non-commercial, practitioner-focused approach to advancing the state of practice. 

“Derek was deeply committed to the development and growth of trenchless technology and to expanding its acceptance across the industry,” Chris Brahler, president and CEO, TT Technologies noted. “His passion for NASTT has always been unparalleled.” 

Potvin’s influence extends beyond North America. He has represented NASTT at ISTT No-Dig events worldwide. He has also participated on expert panels in Brazil. In addition, he delivered municipal infrastructure and trenchless technology training in Cairo, Egypt. Through these activities, he helped elevate NASTT’s reputation as a global leader in trenchless education. 

Mentorship

Equally impactful is Potvin’s role as a mentor. At RCI, he encouraged engineers to engage with NASTT, volunteer, present technical papers, and contribute to knowledge sharing. Furthermore, his leadership helped establish a culture of sustained involvement, including nearly two decades of continuous representation on the GLSLA chapter board. 

“Derek is quiet and unassuming,” wrote Jennifer Glynn, senior technical practice leader, Woodard & Curran, “but when he speaks, you should be listening – because what he says is insightful and impactful.” 

Other Honors

Potvin’s contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including NASTT’s Outstanding Paper Award (2002), the NASTT Chair’s Award (2016), and being named the 2022 Trenchless Technology Person of the Year. His induction into the NASTT Hall of Fame reflects not only his technical achievements, but also his enduring commitment to volunteerism, education, and leadership in service to the public good. 

Upon receiving word of his induction, Potvin said, “I have a great deal of respect for those in the Hall of Fame, and it’s quite an honor to be included among that group. I’m honored and excited. This is not something I ever expected. I’m truly stunned.” 

Supported by his wife Shelley and their children, Potvin has balanced professional excellence with family and community values. In doing so, he embodies the principles that NASTT seeks to advance. 

SOURCE – NASTT

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