From the Publisher: Losing an Industry Giant
As we were putting the August issue to bed, we received the sad news of the passing of Maynard Akkerman. With his passing, the trenchless industry lost an advocate, pioneer and a dear friend — a tremendous force in the microtunneling and guided auger boring sectors who helped to shape and grow this incredible industry.
We share Maynard’s obituary in our news section, which describes the incredible life and impact he made on his colleagues, employees and the trenchless community. He was our 2008 Trenchless Technology Person of the Year, as well as honored as a 2022 Microtunneling Achievement recipient.
Our 2025 North American Microtunneling Review section coincidentally features an article in which Maynard reflects on Akkerman Inc.’s 30 years of microtunneling innovation. We join the tight-knit trenchless industry in celebrating his life, his leadership and the countless ways he moved trenchless technology forward.
As with Maynard and so many others who came before and after, the trenchless industry is full of innovative people and companies. This issue celebrates trenchless innovation, starting with the cover story featuring Underground Magnetics. Built on a foundation of innovation, as well as simplicity and affordability, the company has become a trusted name among contractors worldwide. From its start producing five locators at a time to supporting the winning crew, Ward Trenching, at the 2024 HDD Rodeo, Underground Magnetics shows how customer-focused engineering and a commitment to real-world performance can drive industry-wide change.
For more innovations, be sure to check out the Trenchless Innovations section packed with cutting-edge solutions advancing trenchless installation and rehabilitation. You’ll find game-changing solutions that are redefining precision and safety in utility installations; revolutionizing sewer inspection with fiber optic technology, reducing downtime and boosting HDD jobsite productivity, and much more.
Going to the Utility Expo?
Don’t miss the HDD Rodeo at Utility Expo!
The Trenchless Technology team has been making the trek to Utility Expo for more than 30 years (back when it was called ICUEE). Nothing beats the outdoor area where you can see trenchless equipment in action and on display in some pretty elaborate outdoor setups.
This year marks an exciting first: the HDD Rodeo is coming to Utility Expo! Held in Lot K, this special exhibition will showcase the competition portion of the HDD Rodeo, giving attendees a preview of what to expect at the full event in 2026.
We invite you to stop by, cheer on the competitors, and experience the energy as eight drill crews from across the United States to complete a 200-ft bore, judged on line, grade, and time. The top three teams will earn free entry into the official HDD Rodeo, happening Dec. 2-4, 2026, in Perry, Georgia. The 2026 event will feature more competing crews, educational sessions, outdoor exhibits, and serious cash & prizes, plus bragging rights as HDD Rodeo Champion! But don’t miss out on this unique “sneak peek” of what the HDD Rodeo is all about!
Make your plans for World Trenchless Day, Sept. 25, 2025!
World Trenchless Day is our call to action to educate people outside of the industry about the benefits trenchless can bring to their community! Whether you share a success story, post a photo, or simply start a conversation about the benefits of trenchless solutions. Every post, event, or conversation with a neighbor helps elevate our industry, educate others, and drive support for smarter infrastructure. Let’s show the world what trenchless can do!
Need the 2025 World Trenchless Day logo? Download at worldtrenchlessday.org/logo-downloads/.
As always, we are here to serve you, our readers. If you have any suggestions or comments, please email me at kvannatten@benjaminmedia.com.
Until next month!
