
From the Publisher: Trenchless Engineering Continues Growth
December is our annual issue that presents the Top 50 Trenchless Engineering Firms. There is a lot of research that goes into compiling this data. Considering the timing, the data represents billings for 2016, as it would be impossible to assemble all of this information based on 2017. Our editorial staff commits a lot of resources to accomplish this. We also recognize that the engineering firms, likewise, have committed time and resources to submit the information.
As the chart in this issue shows, trenchless engineering billings increased to $1.3 billion — a 4.4 percent increase over the prior year. I view that as solid growth considering the more conservative and steady approach of the engineering discipline. CH2M again comes in as the No. 1 firm, with a whopping 30 percent growth. CH2M also increased its trenchless specialists from more than 350 to more than 501.
There were also other changes in the Top 10. Kleinfelder, which did not participate in the survey last year, jumped in this year at No. 9. Another big move was KCI Technologies, which moved up from No. 12 in 2016 to No. 10. Of note, Cardno, which ranked No. 10 in last year’s survey, did not participate in this year.
All things considered, the trenchless industry is strong and poised for continued growth in the years to come.
NASTT No-Dig Show – Palm Springs, California
NASTT’s No-Dig Show ventures to an entirely new venue in 2018; namely Palm Springs, California. If you are a golfer you probably know about Palm Springs, but, otherwise, this is a great location for an industry show as it is absolutely beautiful. The dates are March 25-29, 2018, at the Palm Springs Convention Center.
As I write this, it is safe to say that the number of exhibitors at the show will exceed 2017. There are also new-to-the-show companies that will be in the exhibit hall.
RELATED: Registration is now open for NASTT’s 2018 No-Dig Show
An integral part of the No-Dig Show is its tremendous technical program. Again, there will be 167 peer-reviewed papers presented by industry professionals. As testimony to the excellent technical program, you will find sessions so well-attended that it is hard to find a seat. There are many NASTT events embedded within the show, such as regional chapter meetings, student chapter meetings, board of directors meeting, etc. Related associations also have meetings during No-Dig. And networking, there is a lot of that in the schedule.
The key events are the Kick-Off Breakfast on March 26, followed by NASTT’s 17th Annual Educational Fund Auction & Reception that evening, the Gala Awards Dinner on March 27, and a Closing Luncheon on March 28. There is entertainment and a lot of fun to be had at all of these events.
So again, the dates are March 25-29, 2018. For the latest information, check the NASTT No-Dig Show website at nodigshow.com.
Jobsite Juniors
Benjamin Media Inc., the parent company of Trenchless Technology, has launched a kid’s magazine: Jobsite Juniors. The targeted reader for this pub is 10 years old and under. The mission of this bi-monthly magazine is to get kids excited about construction and plays up the interest kids have in building things.
Jobsite Juniors is all about, “Read It, Dig It, Build It.” This is a fun magazine and we are finding that even adults enjoy reading through it. There are coloring pages, hidden pictures, word searches, etc. With this Christmas season upon us, giving a child a subscription to Jobsite Juniors would be a wonderful gift. For information about Jobsite Juniors or to subscribe, visit jobsitejuniors.com.
Merry Christmas to all,