The North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) is proud to announce Derek Potvin, P.Eng., as its 2026 inductee into the NASTT Hall of Fame, recognizing his decades-long leadership, technical contributions, and unwavering service to the trenchless industry and to NASTT. 

Derek Potvin’s career reflects a deep commitment to advancing trenchless technology through education, mentorship, and volunteer leadership. 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 and currently holds the role of Executive Chair of the Board of Directors, continuing 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  which 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-inch water main in downtown Ottawa, demonstrating the economic, environmental, and community benefits of trenchless rehabilitation at a time when 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,”  Kevin Bainbridge, who nominated his co-worker, said. 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 and helped guide the development of NASTT’s 2014 Strategic Plan establishing 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. 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/CEO, TTT 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, participated on expert panels in Brazil, and delivered municipal infrastructure and trenchless technology training in Cairo, Egypt helping elevate NASTT’s reputation as a global leader in trenchless education. 

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. 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.” 

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 Trenchless Technology Person of the Year in 2021. 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 embodying the principles that NASTT seeks to advance. 

About the NASTT Hall of Fame
The NASTT Hall of Fame honors individuals whose careers have significantly advanced trenchless technology and strengthened the Society through leadership, education, and service. Inductees represent the highest standards of professionalism and commitment to NASTT’s mission. 

Executive Director – North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT)

Location: Remote (U.S. or Canada)

Salary Range: $150,000 – $200,000 + performance bonus

Application Deadline: January 5, 2026, 5:00 PM MTN

About NASTT

The North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) is a not-for-profit professional organization established in 1990 to advance the science and practice of trenchless technology. Operating across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and affiliated with the International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT), NASTT is the premier resource for knowledge, education, and training in this rapidly growing industry. NASTT sponsors the No-Dig and No-Dig North conferences, the largest trenchless technology conferences in the world, and supports a network of 12 regional and 19 student chapters with over 2,500 members.

The Opportunity

NASTT seeks a dynamic Executive Director to lead the Society in executing its strategic plan, advancing its mission, and ensuring organizational excellence. Reporting to the Board Chair, the Executive Director will embody NASTT’s core values of Integrity, Excellence, Objectivity, Transparency, Inclusiveness, and Passion.

This is a full-time, remote position requiring regular travel across North America and occasional international travel.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management: Oversee a staff of seven and multiple contractors in a decentralized, virtual office environment.

• Board Governance: Support the Board of Directors with bylaws, policies, elections, and committee management.
• Financial Stewardship: Manage a $3.5M+ annual budget, cash reserves, audits, and contracts with transparency and accountability.
• Strategic Planning: Guide long-term planning, policy development, and industry awareness initiatives.
• Event Oversight: Lead the business and financial success of the No-Dig Show and No-Dig North conferences.
• Membership & Education: Drive membership growth, training programs, publications, and chapter support.
• Representation: Serve as NASTT’s chief ambassador, representing the Society at industry events and in publications.

 Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of senior/executive leadership and business experience, preferably in trenchless technology or a related industry.
• Proven ability to manage remote teams, inspire staff, and lead volunteers.
• Strong background in business finance, strategic planning, policy development, and risk management.
• Exceptional communication skills, including public speaking and board relations.
• Degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field; Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential preferred.
• Commitment to obtaining CAE credential within 18 months of hire.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with SmartSheets, database management, and accounting software is an asset.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary: $150,000 – $200,000 USD
• Annual performance bonus based on defined objectives
• Health & medical benefits (U.S. residents)
• 401k retirement plan (U.S. residents)
• 20 days paid time off annually + 12 holidays
• Travel & expense reimbursement

For additional detailed information, please see the attached NASTT Executive Director Job Description.

How to Apply

Please submit cover letter, resume (2 page maximum), and CV via ASAE job posting no later than January 9, 2026, at 5:00 MTN Time. No phone calls or recruiters please. Review of applications will begin immediately. Full consideration of applications will be given to applications submitted by January 9, 2026. If necessary, applications submitted after January 5, 2025 may be considered on a rolling basis until January 16, 2026. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted for formal interviews.

NASTT is committed to equal opportunity in hiring and employment practices.

For more information about NASTT, please visit our website at www.nastt.org.

November 21, 2025

 

North American Society for Trenchless Technology Announces Leadership Transition

The North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) announces a leadership transition as Executive Director Matthew Izzard concludes six years of dedicated service with the organization.

During his time with NASTT, Matthew provided steady and thoughtful leadership, guiding the society through several pivotal moments, including the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. His commitment, professionalism, and support of NASTT’s mission have strengthened the organization and positioned it for continued success. NASTT extends its sincere appreciation to Matthew for his many contributions and offers its warmest wishes as he begins the next chapter of his professional journey.

As part of this transition, NASTT has appointed Jessie Clevenger as Interim Executive Director. A search committee has been formed and will begin the process of selecting the next Executive Director to lead NASTT into the future. NASTT remains firmly committed to supporting the trenchless technology community through education, research, and collaboration, and looks forward to a smooth and successful transition.

NASTT moves into this next chapter from a position of strength, supported by a dedicated board, talented staff, and a vibrant membership. The organization’s programs, events, and strategic initiatives continue to move forward with strong momentum, supported by a deep bench of experienced professionals and dedicated members committed to delivering exceptional value to the trenchless community.

Contact:
Greg Tippett
Chair, NASTT Board of Directors
c/o: info@nastt.org

Welcome to the following new members of NASTT who joined in February! NASTT is ready for your fresh perspectives, expertise and energy. The NASTT trenchless community can’t wait to connect, collaborate and learn together!

 

Group Corporate & Group Government/Utility Members

Big River Trenchless and GeoServices

Ferreira Construction Co., Inc.

Freese and Nichols, Inc.

Hoerr Construction Inc.

Landmark EPC, LLC

Montgomery Water Works & Sanitary Sewer Board

Oakland County Water Resources

Sewer Equipment Company of America

Village of Pleasant Prairie

 

Be sure to check out this list of more than 80 new individual members and then connect with them in the NASTT Member Connect Directory.

 

Individual Members

Alberto Abarca, Tetra Tech, Inc.

Hamidreza Allahdadi, University of Texas at San Antonio

Marcos Allende, Skava Consulting

Kevin Alspach, AECOM

Fadilat Amisu, Fadilat

Elvis Anthony, Wade Trim

Joseph Anthony, Enbridge Inc. – Corporate Head Office

Bivek Basnet, Louisiana Tech University

Colby Baxter, Freese and Nichols

Shelby Berke, Muller Engineering Company

Heath Bryant, Colonial Pipeline

Marc Carmody, CDS New Zealand Ltd

Matt Chambliss, Montgomery Water Works & Sanitary Sewer Board

Prashant Chavan, University of Texas at Arlington

James Corbin, CJGeo Contractors

Kaylee Craplewe, University of Alberta

farhad daneshgar, University of Texas at Arlington

Preet Desai, University of Texas at Arlington

Kiran Dhakal, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Stephen Driscoll, Muller Engineering Company

Rajendar Dubai, Arlington County Government

Karina Esquivel, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Aileen Grecia Estrada, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico

Fatima Flores Almanza, City and County of Denver | Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI)

Grayson Fuller, Pond and Company

Gabriel Garcia, Haugland Group

Rahn Gentle, Montgomery Water Works & Sanitary Sewer Board

Frida Godinez Robles, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico

Olyvia Green, Burns and McDonnell

Hamdi Hamad, RS&H

Gantt Hartley, Montgomery Water Works & Sanitary Sewer Board

Liam Henderson, Apex Companies, LLC

Sheimberg Isaac, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Brent Johnson, CDM Smith Inc. – World HQ

Brad Jorgensen, Provo River Water User Association

Sahar Kamalou, Oregon State University

Brian Kelenc, Engineered Pipe Group

Ahmed Khedr, Concordia University

Ryan Leister, Hometown Septic Services Inc

Praneetha Lukka, University of Texas at Arlington

James Lupo, Colorado School of Mines

Elijah Megargel, Kleinfelder

Dylan Merlo, Woodard & Curran

Ayoub Mohammadi, University of Texas at Arlington

Delaney Morgan, Xcel Energy

Sireesha Mutnuri, University of Texas at Arlington

Rim Najmeddine, University of Texas at Arlington

Praneeth Chowdary Nelakuditi, University of Texas at Arlington

Nirakar Neupane, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Mark Neuroth, Stantec

Vu Nguyen, Pond and Company

Pranavi Ouppla, University of Texas at Arlington

Preyankkumar Parel, Enerinfra Private Limited

Stevie Parks, Las Vegas Valley Water District

Jaden Patel, Association of General Contractors

Vaibhav Patil, University of Texas at Arlington

Mohit Patil, University of Texas at Arlington

Honglai Peng, Georgia Institute of Technology

Franck Peng, Balsam Laboratory Company Ltd

Niveditha Pinamarukil Sunil, University of Texas at Arlington

Lola Preseren, Kent State University

Ruthvik Pulluri, University of Texas at Arlington

Preethi Rajashekar, University of Texas at Arlington

Sathish Ramasamy, Purdue University

Bryce Rogers, Louisiana Tech University

Sam Rowdon, CDS New Zealand Ltd

Nafisa Shafiullah, University of Texas at Arlington

Sharuk Shaik, University of Texas at Arlington

Fady Shweihat, Arcadis

Eswara Sistla, North American Society for Trenchless Technology

Nicholas Slowey, University of North Florida-College of Computing, Engineering and Construction

Andrew Taliaferro, CJGeo Contractors

Kyle Talmage, Montgomery Water Works & Sanitary Sewer Board

Ritika Talwar, CUNY

Giana Testa, Kent State University

Kayla Usko, Kent State University

James Vandervelde, Paragon Systems Testing

Carlos Vargas, Sewer Equipment Company of America

Amanda Waki, Fukunaga and Associates

Robert Weinert, Plummer

Mike Whitehouse, ISCO Industries – Headquarters

Samuel Wieland, Muller Engineering Company

The Ralston Young Trenchless Achievement Award applauds savvy members under 36 who demonstrated excellence early in their career by making valuable contributions to the trenchless technology industry, achieving noteworthy professional success, and actively participating in NASTT. With their talent and ability, these impressive people are the future of trenchless.

KYLE R. FRIEDMAN, PE
Mountain West Trenchless Lead
Brierley Associates

Kyle is a geotechnical engineer specializing in underground construction, trenchless technologies and tunneling with both a B.S. and M.S. in civil engineering with a geotechnical concentration. A registered Professional Engineer in multiple states, his experience in the trenchless industry extends the full life of a trenchless project, including trenchless alternative analyses, developing and conducting geotechnical site investigations, preparing Geotechnical Data Reports (GDR) and Geotechnical Baseline Reports (GBR), design of trenchless crossings and specification development, HDD alignment selections and optimizations, as well as tunneling observations during construction.

Kyle has had an impactful presence within the trenchless community including 9 papers and presentations at various conferences within the trenchless and water/wastewater communities. He has been a key member of the field team during construction of several complex projects, including two award-winning projects: the Empire State Trail Box Tunnel and the Lake Isabella Dam Safety Modification Project.

The candidate has also been an active volunteer within NASTT and RMNASTT since 2019 and is currently an executive board member and Treasurer for the RMNASTT Chapter and is on the No Dig 2025 planning committee.

“Kyle actively advances and advocates for NASTT’s mission in every aspect of his career. He learns as much as possible about trenchless project success and risk mitigation while pushing the limits of current technologies. Committed to industry growth, he shares his knowledge with owners and contractors to promote awareness, understand possibilities, highlight limitations and ensure successful projects and satisfied teams.” – Anna Crockford, Senior Engineer, Brierley Associates

“Kyle plays a key role in the NASTT Rocky Mountain Regional Chapter and its annual Trenchless Elevated conference and Clay Shoot. He is instrumental in organizing, securing participation, moderating, and speaking at these events. Because of his involvement, these events provide valuable insights for trenchless contractors, engineers and owners.” – Jason Langer, General Manager, Underground Infrastructure Technologies

PHILL PERRON
Vice President, Projects
The Crossing Group

Phill is a Canadian professional with an accomplished career spanning logistics, supply chain management, and trenchless technology. Born in Kingston, Ontario, he earned a bachelor’s degree in English literature from the Royal Military College of Canada and a master’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom.

He served for a decade as a Supply Chain Operations Officer in the Royal

Canadian Air Force. As part of a multi-generational military family, he was proud to contribute to Canada’s missions both at home and abroad. Over the course of his military career, he completed multiple missions and tours, earning commendations for exemplary service.

After transitioning from military service, Phill joined Lockheed Martin, where he supported the $60 billion C-130J Hercules In-Service Support Contract between Lockheed and the Government of Canada. In 2019, he brought his logistical expertise to The Crossing Group as Corporate Supply Chain Manager. There, he applied his military-honed skills to optimize operations for the company’s extensive fleet of over 60 trenchless spreads, significantly enhancing efficiency and agility.

Phill regularly attends the NASTT No-Dig Show and encourages young professionals and others to expand their networks and knowledge through NASTT education and regional chapter participation. He has been published in NASTT Trenchless for Gas Infrastructure Magazine and participated as a reviewer and subject matter expert editor for NASTT’s HDD Good Practices Guidelines, Fifth Edition. He is co-presenting “PacWave South Trenchless Construction – Geotechnical Considerations” on Tuesday, April 1 at the 2025 No-Dig Show in Denver.

“A distinguished Royal Canadian Air Force veteran, Phill has risen rapidly in the trenchless industry, becoming an executive at The Crossing Group by age 33. He leads the largest trenchless scope of the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE) project and is dedicated to advancing the craft side of trenchless, developing young professionals into skilled technicians. His leadership and commitment to safety, efficiency, and industry growth have earned him respect across the field. His passion for education and mentorship makes him a true champion.” – Thomas Swinney, PMP, US Project Coordinator, The Crossing Group

“What sets Phill apart is not just his technical acumen but his visionary leadership. He commands the respect of everyone he works with, from the most seasoned professionals to the newest recruits. His leadership style, shaped by his experience as an officer in the Air Force, exemplified the importance of discipline, safety and mission-driven work. These qualities translate seamlessly into his role at The Crossing Group, where his approach to safety and performance sets a high standard for everyone around him. – Romeo Shiplee, PE, Director of Geotechnical Engineering, Campos EPC, LLC

Special recognition of Kyle and Phill will take place at the NASTT 2025 No-Dig Show in Denver at the Opening Breakfast.