Trenchless Technology Last Word – Finding Inspiration in Palm Springs

Welcome to the desert paradise of Palm Springs! I hope you enjoy your time here among the iconic Joshua trees and the striking “desert modernism” architecture.

Although underground infrastructure throughout the Western United States is newer than that of many Eastern cities, much of it has now reached the age where sewer, water, and stormwater systems require repair or rehabilitation.

Trenchless Rehab in the West

Over the past 15 years, the trenchless rehabilitation market in the Western U.S. has expanded dramatically. More companies than ever now offer trenchless solutions, and municipalities are increasingly proactive with condition assessments.

These evaluations are essential: identifying defects early allows system owners to intervene before problems advance to a stage where trenchless methods are no longer viable. Once these assessments are complete, many cities move quickly to incorporate rehabilitation funding into their Capital Improvement Programs so necessary work can begin.

Trenchless rehabilitation methods consistently provide less disruption and greater cost-effectiveness than traditional open cut construction. However, with so many technology options available today, selecting the right method can feel overwhelming.

Thanks to expanded education and outreach by organizations like NASTT, engineers and municipal staff now have a much better understanding of available technologies and methods. Events like the No Dig Show expose attendees to an array of rehabilitation technologies, case studies, and real world applications. They also offer opportunities to connect with suppliers, contractors, and experts who can help system owners evaluate options and develop practical implementation plans.

Even with this progress, funding remains one of the most significant challenges facing municipalities. President Biden’s $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), funded through September 2026, continues to play an important role in supporting transportation, broadband, water, and energy infrastructure across the country.

FEMA also remains a major partner through programs such as Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Assistance. As of January 2026, FEMA has approved more than $2.2 billion to repair critical infrastructure including utilities, roads, and schools. These programs frequently include a cost share requirement, with FEMA covering at least 75 percent of eligible costs.

Supporting Growth

Despite these structural challenges, the trenchless industry continues to see tremendous opportunities for growth — particularly through education, networking, workforce development, and the advancement of new rehabilitation technologies.

Workforce shortages remain a universal concern. As experienced professionals retire, the industry must attract, train, and retain the next generation of trenchless engineers, support staff, technicians, and operators. Whether you are a contractor, a city employee, a supplier, or part of an engineering firm, strengthening and sustaining the workforce is essential for long term growth.

The WESTT Chapter remains deeply committed to supporting this progress. Our members are passionate advocates for trenchless technology, and we continue to expand outreach and engagement across the Western states.

WESST’s Efforts

• Increasing engagement with universities to establish new student chapters and introduce emerging professionals to the trenchless field.
• Sponsoring WESTT student members to attend conferences, social events, and technical training opportunities.
• Providing professional trenchless education courses at our annual WESTT Conference.
  Encouraging member participation in WESTT committees and leadership roles to strengthen collaboration and representation.
• Using online tools like the Coffee Roulette App to help members meet one another, build relationships, and network more effectively.
• Hosting social events at our annual conference — such as last year’s popular axe throwing mixer in Scottsdale.
• Organizing live field demonstration days during active trenchless projects so WESTT members and non-members can observe installation methods in action.

Through these initiatives, WESTT aims to strengthen communication and relationships among existing members, while welcoming new professionals into our growing community. We want our members to learn together, connect with one another, share experiences, build partnerships, and continue exploring emerging technologies that advance the trenchless industry.

On behalf of the WESTT Board of Directors, thank you for joining us for the NASTT 2026 No Dig Show. I hope your time in Palm Springs inspires new ideas, fosters new relationships, and sparks exciting opportunities in trenchless technology!

Michelle Beason, P.E., is with National Plant Services Inc., a Carylon Company and Chair of the Western Chapter of NASTT (WESTT).

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