Louisiana Tech Construction Engineering Technology (CET) students were awarded a $11,500
grant from the North American Society for Trenchless Technology to attend the 2026
No-Dig Show in Palm Springs, California.
Mr. Reginald Jeter, program chair of CET, congratulated the student officers of Louisiana
Tech’s joint Associated General Contractors (AGC)/NASTT Student Chapter for their
leadership and initiative in securing this funding.
“We’re incredibly proud of our chapter officers: President Jackson McKinney, Vice
President Colby Staffier, Treasurer Jacob Murray, Secretary Kate Hudson, and Philanthropy
Chair Ethan Robertson for their hard work and commitment to advancing student engagement
in the trenchless technology industry,” Jeter said.
NASTT’s Student Chapter Grant Program supports activities that build education, skills,
and industry connections through job site visits, training, and partnerships with
trenchless technology firms. This year brought a record number of funding requests
that exceeded the budget by more than $50,000, so reviewers evaluated proposals, travel
costs, past attendance, and student conduct carefully. Louisiana Tech’s strong history
and student professionalism helped secure this year’s award, which will support student
participation in the 2026 No-Dig Show, an event that brings together industry leaders,
researchers, and students from across North America to explore the latest innovations
in underground infrastructure and pipeline systems.
“This funding helps our students gain hands-on exposure to the latest innovations
driving the future of underground infrastructure,” said Dr. John Matthews, professor
of Civil Engineering and director of Louisiana Tech’s Trenchless Technology Center.
“Our students are not only learning from leading professionals in the field but are
also contributing to the next generation of research and innovation in trenchless
technology.”
About Louisiana Tech’s College of Engineering and Science
The College of Engineering and Science at Louisiana Tech University integrates engineering
and scientific research with education to prepare students to solve complex, real-world
problems. The college is nationally recognized for its collaborative, interdisciplinary
approach and commitment to innovation in engineering, science, and technology.