Learning is a process that ends when we do. As Wilbur Wright once said, “It is possible to fly without motors but not without knowledge and skill”. Trenchless technology applied to the field of construction is an industry that requires knowledge and skill. There’s no better place to learn than from the pioneers of the technology and those who have perfected through experience. Trenchless technology is fast taking center stage because of the advantages it offers over traditional trenching methods.
For all students and contractors the best way to take advantage of this emerging technology is to educate, participate and include everyone involved through various organizations, societies and institutes to gain a better understanding of this technology.
Below is a list of associations that deal with the implementation and advancement of trenchless technology, safety and material standards and peer-to-peer associations. These institutes have been created for the purpose of benefiting organizations, contractors and individuals interested in trenchless installation of pipelines or rehabilitation of existing deteriorating pipeline infrastructure.
NASTT is a society formed of individuals and organizations with environmental or professional interest in trenchless technology. It has 18 official student chapters and offers non-affiliated membership, international individual membership and retiree membership. NASTT also has the largest trenchless library with downloadable technical papers available online for its members.
MASST is engaged in promoting trenchless technology across the mid-Atlantic region. It has seminar programs designed for educating engineers, contractors, designers and public officials who are involved in constructing and rehabilitating underground infrastructure.
ASCE is America’s oldest national engineering society and represents approximately 147,000 members of the civil engineering profession across the globe.
AWWA is a non-profit educational association with over 50,000 members dedicated to managing and treating water resources. It provides solutions to improve public health, sustain the environment and to strengthen the economy.
ISTT aims at advancing the “science and practice of trenchless technology for the public benefit”. It also promotes research, study, training and education in the technology and is affiliated with trenchless societies all over the world in order to advance it globally.
TTC was established with the aim to promote research and development for industry, academics and end users of trenchless technology. TTC partners with industries, colleges, organizations and government entities in a variety of collaborative efforts.
APWA is a charitable organization and promotes public awareness and professional excellence using education and exchange of knowledge. It is an international educational and professional conglomeration of individual and public and private sector companies that aim at delivering the best quality public work.
Other associations and societies that promote implementation and advancement of trenchless technology are:
Associations and Societies Enforcing Safety Standards in Trenchless Technology
OSHA works towards providing a safe and healthy working environment for workers and requires employers to comply with specific safety and health standards. OSHA holds employers responsible for work related accidents if regulations are not followed.
PHMSA is responsible for developing regulations and enforcing them for safety and environmentally sound pipeline installation projects.
NTS provides a range of safety training programs excavation safety, confined space construction, basic first aid, OSHA regulations etc. It also provides on-demand customized training at the office or construction site.
ASTM develops and provides technical standards to promote public health, safety and quality of life. Technical information adhering to international standards ensures excellent quality in materials, products, systems and services.
This federation provides training and technical education for the world’s water quality professionals. It's a non-profit organization with 36000 members and 75 affiliated member associations committed to preserving and enhancing global water environment.
Other institutes and societies that mandate workers and job site safety, health and environmental sustenance are:
Associations and Institutes for Peer-to-Peer Learning and Research
BAMI-I provides a platform for underground water infrastructure owners to combine their knowledge with researchers to evaluate buried asset management protocols.
PHMSA’s pipeline safety R&D program ensures “safe, reliable and environmentally sound operation of America’s energy transportation pipelines. It also sponsors research and development projects focused on safety and environmental protection.
CUIRE promotes research, development and training in construction and renewal of underground infrastructure. It enhances cost effectiveness, time management, environmental protection and safety. It works with government agencies and trade associations and offers training and membership programs.
GLTA offers scholarship for college or technical school to wards of GLTA member company employees. It also offers multiple high quality courses at their annual conference and expo in specific trenchless topics.
TC3 provides a platform for individuals unfamiliar with or holding new positions in trenchless technology or those requiring a refresher course. It also explains safe construction practices and inspection guidelines.
CATT provides a common forum for education and research in trenchless technology and addresses infrastructure issues faced by contractors and end users. It's a collection of municipalities, industries, universities and government agencies committed to the research and advancement of trenchless technology.