RUSTON, La. Louisiana Tech University Construction Engineering Technology students received an $11,500 grant from the North American Society for Trenchless Technology to attend the 2026 No-Dig Show in Palm Springs, California.
Reginald Jeter, program chair of Construction Engineering Technology, recognized student leaders in Louisiana Tech’s joint Associated General Contractors and NASTT student chapter for securing the 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.
The NASTT Student Chapter Grant Program supports education, skill building, and industry engagement through site visits, training, and partnerships with companies in the trenchless technology sector. The program received a record number of requests this year that surpassed its budget by more than $50,000. Reviewers evaluated proposals based on travel costs, past attendance, and student conduct. Louisiana Tech’s history with the program and its student chapter’s professionalism contributed to the award.
The grant will support student travel to the 2026 No-Dig Show, a North American industry event focused on underground infrastructure and pipeline system innovation. “This funding helps our students gain hands-on exposure to the latest innovations driving the future of underground infrastructure,” said 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.”