You Won't Believe How Much Funding Construction Students Just Scored—Is Your School Next?

In an exciting development for students pursuing careers in construction and engineering, the Louisiana Tech University Construction Engineering Technology (CET) program has secured an impressive $11,500 grant from the North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT). This funding will enable students to attend the highly anticipated 2026 No-Dig Show, scheduled to take place in Palm Springs, California.

Mr. Reginald Jeter, the program chair of CET, expressed his pride in the student officers of Louisiana Tech’s joint Associated General Contractors (AGC)/NASTT Student Chapter for their effective leadership in obtaining this grant. “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 stated.

The NASTT’s Student Chapter Grant Program is designed to support activities that foster education, skills development, and industry connections. This includes job site visits, training sessions, and partnerships with trenchless technology firms. Notably, this year saw a record number of funding requests totaling over $50,000 beyond the available budget. Proposals were meticulously evaluated based on travel costs, past attendance, and student conduct, which underscores the significance of Louisiana Tech’s strong history and the professionalism exhibited by its students in securing this award.

The upcoming No-Dig Show will gather industry leaders, researchers, and students from across North America, all focused on the latest innovations in underground infrastructure and pipeline systems. Dr. John Matthews, a professor of Civil Engineering and director of Louisiana Tech’s Trenchless Technology Center, highlighted the importance of this experience for students. “This funding helps our students gain hands-on exposure to the latest innovations driving the future of underground infrastructure. 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,” Matthews explained.

The opportunity to attend the No-Dig Show not only enhances educational experiences but also strengthens the professional ties between academia and the trenchless technology industry. As underground construction techniques evolve, events like the No-Dig Show serve as vital platforms for sharing insights and advancements that can transform how we approach infrastructure challenges. Louisiana Tech’s CET program, through its commitment to practical learning and industry partnerships, is positioning its students to be at the forefront of this evolving field.

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.