I started out my drilling career by stepping in to help a mutual friend with his family’s business. That’s where it all clicked—my passion for operating heavy equipment met what would become my future love: drilling and “making water.” It was the kind of work that felt like it was in my bones from day one.

James, my younger brother, got into the industry the way many little brothers do—through the nudging and recommendation of his older sibling. He kicked off his career at another local company, focusing on environmental and geotechnical exploration drilling.

We’ve both always had a knack for heavy equipment, and we brought with us skills we learned outside the industry that gave us a bit of an edge. With the guidance of seasoned pros who paved the way before us, we each found our stride.

But no matter how naturally you take to the work, everyone starts out green. We both had to earn our place—learning how to handle the weight of the work, the tools, the risks. Whether it was suggesting a new piece of safety equipment, tweaking a tool, or (gasp) changing a process that had “always been done that way,” we faced our fair share of raised eyebrows. Still, it’s the respect we hold for the folks and families who worked hard long before us that gave us strength during the tougher days. Those lessons in the field—the hard ones—shaped us into safer, smarter, and better men.

And in truth, that family spirit runs deep in this industry. More than 60% of drilling companies in North America are family-owned or passed down through generations. It’s a legacy business. Just like we were brought in by people we trusted, a lot of drillers out there got their start through a dad, an uncle, or even a grandfather who passed on the knowledge and work ethic that the job demands.

At 29, I’ve lived through a few chapters in this industry—from grunt to helper to assistant. From being the guy who thinks he knows how to run a rig to actually drilling on my own. Today, I’m proud to be a Superintendent with Phoenix Foundation Company. One of my big responsibilities is bridging the gap between foundation drilling and our new geothermal drilling venture. I focus on QA/QC, provide insight and support, and meet with potential clients to help explain what we actually do out there in the field. I never expected to pick up some of the skills I’ve learned along the way, but each one has helped bring me closer to my dream of running a family well drilling business and serving our local community.

Image Courtesy of Mike Fleming

 Drilling might not always be glamorous, but it’s critical work. In the U.S. alone, drilling supports thousands of jobs—people just like us, making a living out in the field, often in tough conditions. Water well drilling by itself pulls in billions a year, proving just how vital it is to residential life, farming, and industry.

James is still in the early stages of his journey at 21, but the path he’s on is clear. His work with Northern Drill Service is carving him into a well-rounded and highly capable driller. Right now, his main focus is sharpening his craft and gaining the experience he needs to be a leader for the next wave of drillers and helpers. With the way geothermal and environmental drilling are expanding, there’s a real chance for younger guys like him to specialize and take the industry to new places.

Throughout our journeys, James and I have had the chance to grow, learn, and trade knowledge—not just between each other, but with those around us. It’s helped define who we are in the field: reliable, skilled, and driven. Our goals may not be identical, but they run parallel. We both aim to be great. We strive for excellence. 

And while drilling keeps our lights on and our families fed, what keeps us showing up is deeper—it’s a passion we carry within us, day after day, rig after rig.