31 SEPTEMBER 2026 WorldWide Drilling Resource® A Shared Vision Adapted from Information by the Horizontal Directional Drilling Association (HDDA) At the 2021 Underground Construction Technology Conference, many industry veterans gathered to discuss the future of horizontal directional drilling (HDD). During the conference, an idea was born to establish an organization dedicated to better the HDD industry by addressing safety concerns, procedural improvements, contractual frameworks, and establishing industry-wide best practices. The HDDA was created through a shared vision to improve safety standards and overall drilling practices in the industry after many highly publicized accidents. To bring their vision to life, the founders needed strong leadership. After extensive consideration, they reached out to Don Riggs, a leading contractor in the telecom industry across the south. Don eagerly joined the effort after witnessing firsthand the tightening restrictions and bans on HDD in various municipalities due to reckless drilling practices. A core team of Don Riggs, Cory Baker, Josh Tucker, Grady Bell, Bobby Hoover, and Robert Myers worked together to draft a mission statement, identify potential members, and establish the first steering committee. The founding members met to elect officers, organize committees, and tend to the legal matters needed to formally establish the association. The organization’s goal was to advocate for responsible HDD practices, provide education and training, as well as foster collaboration among contractors, vendors, and governing bodies. In 2023, the Inaugural HDDA Conference took place in Dallas, Texas, where industry professionals, vendors, and drill operators were invited to join a full day of discussion, training, and networking. Attendees were introduced to the newly elected Board of Directors along with the overview of HDDA’s objectives. Afterward, they did hands-on training by some of the vendors. The success of this event provided the momentum necessary to propel HDDA forward. Through ongoing collaboration, industry leadership, and a steadfast commitment to safety and professionalism, HDDA continues to make significant strides in shaping the future of HDD. From the beginning, HDDA’s mission is to ensure no family has to endure the loss of a loved one due to preventable workplace incidents. Through collective effort and unwavering dedication, the founding members of HDDA have laid the groundwork for a safer, more responsible, and innovative industry. HDD
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