In an industry where hard work often speaks louder than words, taking the time to share your story isn’t always the first priority. Most drillers would rather keep their head down, get the job done, and move on to the next site. But that’s exactly why we created the Driller E.G.O. Award: to recognize the people whose voices, experiences, and lessons can shape the future of drilling.

What “E.G.O.” Really Stands For…

The name might sound like we’re celebrating big egos (we are, too), but actually, E.G.O. stands for Engineer, Geologist, Operator. It’s about the full spectrum of professionals who make up the drilling world—and the knowledge they bring to the table. This isn’t just about bragging rights. It’s about spotlighting the kind of expertise and grit that keeps water flowing, foundations stable, and energy projects moving forward.

Why It Matters…

The drilling industry is changing fast. Regulations shift, new technologies emerge, and the workforce itself is evolving. Yet one thing hasn’t changed: the best lessons and knowledge still come from the field. The E.G.O. Award is our way of making sure those stories don’t get lost. By sharing what you’ve learned—whether it’s a safety tip that saves hours of rework, something hilarious that happened on a site, a story about keeping a crew together in tough times, or a moment that reminded you why you chose this career—you’re passing on knowledge to the next generation.

What’s In It for You?

Yes, there are prizes. The winner will take home the Golden Hard Hat Award at Groundwater Week 2025, get featured in our December print issue, and join us live on The Driller Newscast from Bourbon Street. But more importantly, you’ll know your story is part of something bigger—a growing archive of voices that tell the real story of drilling.

How to Enter…

Don’t overthink it. You don’t need to be Hemingway—or Spielberg. Just share your story.

You can:

• Write it out (about 500–800 words).
• Grab your phone at lunch and hit record. A quick five-minute video is all it takes.

Seriously, don't overthink it. This is meant to be a fun and unique way to honor our industry professionals.

There's no entry fee or gimmicks—just share your story.

After we review the submissions, a panel will pick the finalists, and then the drilling community will vote for the top three. In other words, the people who live this work every day will help decide who takes home the Golden Hard Hat. 

The drilling community is full of stories worth telling. From family businesses built across generations, to new crews tackling geothermal projects, to veterans who’ve seen it all—these experiences deserve a platform. The Driller E.G.O. Award is more than recognition; it’s a way of building pride and making sure the voices of drillers are heard - while passing on some important knowledge to future generations.

The deadline is November 7, 2025. Submit your story today and join us this December at National Groundwater Week in New Orleans, where we’ll celebrate at the city’s oldest jazz bar and crown the first-ever Golden Hard Hat Award winner live.

Submit your story here, or reach out to our editor Johnny Oldani for help on how to submit. You can call him at 248-838-8535 or email him at oldanij@bnpmedia.com - don't be afraid to reach out!