Robert Myers Talks Hardrock Infrastructure, HDDA, and the Future of Horizontal Directional Drilling.
The third episode of One Foot at a Time, DrilRite Chem’s original podcast, is now live—and this time we’re featuring one of the most influential voices in the HDD industry. Robert Myers, President of the Horizontal Directional Drilling Association (HDDA) and CEO of Hardrock Infrastructure, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on sales, leadership, and the responsibility we all share in advancing horizontal directional drilling.
From Vermeer’s Top Salesman to HDD Industry Leader
Before launching one of the most respected directional drilling contractors in the U.S., Robert Myers was grinding it out in equipment sales. In this episode, he shares how he worked his way up to become the #1 Vermeer salesman in the world, and what he learned from working directly with drillers, day in and day out.
His experience in the field helped him understand what contractors really need: better support, better training, and better solutions. That mindset laid the foundation for what would eventually become Hardrock Infrastructure, now recognized across the country for tackling some of the toughest drilling projects in the business.
Building Hardrock Infrastructure: A Contractor’s Perspective
If you’ve been in HDD long enough, you’ve heard the name Hardrock Infrastructure. Known for their ability to deliver on large-scale and complex horizontal bores, the company has become a go-to for municipalities, prime contractors, and private developers alike.
Robert takes us behind the scenes on how Hardrock was built—one project, one crew, and one tough lesson at a time. He talks about what it takes to grow a directional drilling company with staying power, how to build and retain quality crews, and why consistency is more important than hype.
For any contractor looking to scale their operation, this episode is packed with honest, actionable insight from someone who’s done it.
Why the HDD Industry Needs the HDDA
One of the most important topics covered in the episode is the mission behind the Horizontal Directional Drilling Association. As President of the HDDA, Robert explains why the industry needs a dedicated trade association focused exclusively on HDD.
From safety training to workforce development to advocating for fair and realistic regulations at the state and federal levels, the HDDA exists to protect and strengthen the future of directional drilling. In Robert’s words, “If we don’t come together and speak for this industry, someone else will—and they won’t get it right.”
He encourages every contractor, supplier, manufacturer, and service provider in the HDD ecosystem to get involved with the HDDA. Whether it’s attending the annual conference, using the training tools, or simply signing up as a member, participation matters.
A Call to Action for the Next Generation of HDD Contractors
Robert ends the conversation with a clear message: this industry has given us all a lot—and it’s on us to give something back.
For those new to horizontal directional drilling, he shares the importance of mentorship and education. For veterans of the industry, he reminds us that innovation, safety, and integrity should be non-negotiables. And for everyone in between, he makes it clear that the future of HDD depends on how seriously we take our role in shaping it.
This episode isn’t just a profile—it’s a rallying cry for a better, stronger, more united HDD industry.
Listen to Episode 3 of One Foot at a Time Featuring Robert Myers
This episode, titled "Blazing a Trail, Leaving a Path," is now available on all major platforms. Hear directly from Robert Myers as he reflects on his early days in sales, the founding of Hardrock Infrastructure, and the mission behind the Horizontal Directional Drilling Association.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss a new episode. One Foot at a Time brings you real stories from real people who live and breathe directional drilling—from field crews to industry execs. Available wherever you get your podcasts.
