Vermeer this month announced a new website and contest to promote horizontal directional drilling and those who work in the field for that industry. Navigator Nation aims to elevate awareness and passion for the field for a new generation of HDD operators.
 
“I can tell you this will be an industry first,” said Jason Zylstra, marketing manager for Vermeer, which is based in Pella, Iowa. “We understand how difficult day-to-day life can be on the jobsite, and the pride operators have in their work. This is our opportunity to salute these individuals and say thank you for your dedication.”
 
HDD operators can visit www.navigatornation.com to find an interactive community of professionals. It will also feature a library of pictures of jobsites and videos of operators discussing their craft, how they came to the profession and challenges they face. New videos and pictures will be posted regularly - both by Vermeer and by users around the world.
 
Operators can also profile outstanding crews in video, and upload it to the website for a chance at getting named the Ultimate Operator. Website visitors will vote throughout the year, and the video with the most votes will win the crew the title of Ultimate Operators, to be crowned the Ultimate Operator at the International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE) in October.
 
Vermeer offers a full line of horizontal directional drilling systems, as well as other products, through a broad network of authorized dealers. For more information on Vermeer products and services, visit the company’s website at www.vermeer.com or email Vermeer at salesinfo@vermeer.com.