The Driller

?? #SCOTUS to EPA: Set Clear Pollution Limits ?? In a major March 2025 ruling, the Supreme Court said the EPA can’t hold water treatment facilities liable for pollution unless it clearly defines the pollutant limits in their permits. Read all about it: https://lnkd.in/dufGPZeK

It’s not just a job—it’s a test of resilience, grit, and raw experience. From -20°F winters in Colorado to the roaring steam fields of Northern California, drillers face some of the toughest conditions on Earth. We sat down with two seasoned pros—Michael LeTourneau and Tad Thornton—to get the real stories behind the rigs. They opened up about: ?? The wildest jobs they’ve tackled ?? How tech is changing the game ?? What it really takes to make it in drilling today "Technology makes it safer and faster," says Thornton, "but when stuff hits the fan, you fix it—not the computer." https://lnkd.in/g4QrxVwr

?? Friday Call for Contributors! ???? Are you a driller with a story to tell? Got a hot take on industry trends, an interesting job site tale, or just a passion for all things drilling? The Driller is looking for contributors! We want to hear your insights, experiences, and even your passionate rants (to some extent ??). Join the conversation and share your expertise with our community. Reach out to us today! ?? #ShareYourStory https://lnkd.in/giqFUBrH

?? #ThrowbackThursday to Episode 141! ??????? In this episode, Brock Yordy tackled a company’s responsibility for employee safety—reminding us that even if federal regulations roll back, civil law still holds weight. He also broke down the Unleashing America’s Energy Executive Order, weighing its pros and cons, and continued the conversation on how water drives government policy in the 21st century. Catch up on this important discussion! ?? #TBT #WorkplaceSafety #EnergyPolicy #WaterResources #DrillingIndustry https://lnkd.in/gRA38zuG

?? Workplace Safety in the Drilling Industry ?? Recent fatal incidents in the drilling industry serve as a stark reminder of the dangers workers face daily. With government officials pushing for deregulation and changes at OSHA, the future of workplace safety remains uncertain. Training, hazard assessments, and proactive measures can save lives - because safety isn’t just a regulation, it’s a commitment. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gexGBFQ3 #WorkplaceSafety #DrillingIndustry #OSHA #SafetyFirst

??The EPA Terminates Climate Grants?? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has revoked several multibillion-dollar climate grants and enlisted the FBI to investigate employees and recipients, citing concerns over oversight and potential misuse of funds. One grant, a $7 billion award to Climate United Fund, was terminated due to alleged "programmatic fraud, waste, and abuse," though the nonprofit denies any wrongdoing. Read about it here: https://lnkd.in/gn49sUDW #EPA #ClimateFunding #CleanEnergy #GreenInvestments

?? In Case You Missed It! ?? The well drilling industry is changing as longtime family-owned contractors merge. Recently, four respected companies in two counties combined into two, reflecting a broader trend of consolidation. One merger included a nearly 100-year-old drilling company, while another saw two post-WWII-era businesses unite, with geothermal work making a strong comeback. #WellDrilling #IndustryChanges #Geothermal #WaterWells Read John Schmitt's latest column: https://lnkd.in/g5UwTkaJ

?? Big takeaways from IGSHPA 2025! ?? Experts tackled geothermal’s biggest challenges: workforce training, adoption hurdles, and standardization. ???? Key insights: ? Training gaps – More structured programs needed. ? Regional costs – Drilling prices vary widely. ? Utility integration – Community-wide projects are growing. ? Efficiency first – Geothermal + solar = a winning combo! ? Diversity – More outreach needed to expand the workforce. With ground source heat pumps up to 8x more efficient than air source, the industry has huge potential—but key challenges remain. What’s your take? ?? #Geothermal #CleanEnergy https://lnkd.in/gCFQ5K65

?? BREAKING: President Trump announces tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum will DOUBLE to 50% in response to Ontario’s new electricity tax on the U.S. ????? Doug Ford's move to tax U.S. electricity and halt nickel exports has triggered strong action from the administration. Trump is also preparing to declare a National Emergency on Electricity in parts of Minnesota, Michigan, and New York. More details here: https://lnkd.in/g7xSZYWN #TradeWar #BreakingNews

?? IGSHPA 2025 Annual Conference Kicks Off Today! ?? Join us in Champaign, IL, as we break new ground in geothermal innovation! ???? With 50+ workshops, 8 topic tracks, and expert speakers, this is a premier event for ground source heat pump professionals. ?? Must-See Workshop Today: Mission Geo: Transforming Perspectives on GSHPs ?? March 11 | 1:15 – 2:15 PM ?? Eric A. Torykian, Executive Director, Mission Geo #IGSHPA2025 #Geothermal #Sustainability https://lnkd.in/geYWyHHJ