NASTT-BC Hosts Trenchless Fundamentals in the North Event

In February, NASTT’s British Columbia Chapter (NASTT-BC) travelled to Northern British Columbia to host Trenchless Fundamentals in the North. This was an in-person event focused on the practical application of trenchless technologies.

Northern BC presents distinct geographic, environmental, and logistical challenges. It is precisely in these conditions where trenchless delivery can provide the greatest value.

Attendance exceeded 42 participants, including municipal representatives from Northwest BC who made the considerable journey to attend. Many expressed that distance often limits access to professional development opportunities. These are typically centered in Vancouver. It was a meaningful reminder that access to education matters. Bringing education north is not symbolic, it is necessary. Because of the appetite for knowledge in the North, this event will now become an annual one.

The chapter approaches these initiatives not as roadshows, but as focused exchanges of knowledge. The objective was to support students, contractors, designers, operators, and municipal public works professionals in understanding where trenchless solutions are most effective and where they are not.

Also, they focus on how method selection based on site-specific attributes can reduce risk, disruption, and long-term lifecycle cost. Informed decision-making, not default construction methods, remains the most powerful tool available to asset owners.

Organizers were encouraged by the participation of at least one student from the University of Northern British Columbia. Engaging students at this stage of their academic journey is something the chapter approaches with care and humility. By providing practical context, exposure to real-world applications, and access to industry-supported learning, we aim to strengthen, not replace, formal education.

Through our National partnership, British Columbia students are able to access free memberships, structured education resources, and peer networks. These help bridge the gap between academia and industry. These connections support informed career paths and help cultivate professionals who understand both theory and constructability.

Beyond education, trenchless delivery offers measurable environmental and community benefits that resonate strongly with municipalities. These include reduced carbon emissions from heavy equipment and trucks, lower petroleum consumption, minimized excavation and ground disturbance, and significantly reduced disruption to residents, businesses, and transit users.

The visit also served as a pleasant reminder of the character of Northern communities. The hospitality, directness, and genuine engagement we experienced reaffirmed why industry outreach matters. When knowledge exchange is mutual, it strengthens the entire sector.

As municipalities continue to balance asset renewal, climate responsibility, and public disruption, early consideration of trenchless options during planning and design can meaningfully influence outcomes.
If this work helps support better decisions, strengthen educational pathways, and advance responsible trenchless adoption in Northern British Columbia and beyond, then the effort was well worth it.

SOURCE – NASTT-BC

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