Terry Olson of the North Dakota State Water Commission recently earned NGWA’s highest certification designation — Master Groundwater Contractor (MGWC) — becoming just the 63rd person to do so.
The MGWC certification designation recognizes those who have proven exceptional knowledge and dedication in water well construction and pump installation.
Olson, in his 10th year as a rotary drill operator for the state of North Dakota, conducts test drilling and installs observation wells. Olson grew up learning the drilling trade from his father, Paul, who opened a domestic well drilling and repair company in 1959 in Minnesota. Olson’s grandfather would help at times, so he considers himself a third-generation driller.
“I eventually partnered with my dad and, working together, the business grew and diversified into light irrigation, geothermal, and abandonment work,” Olson said. “But all things change and there came a time where it was apparent that you had to get big or get out. I enjoyed running equipment more than running a business, so I took my current position.”
Olson served as president of the Minnesota Water Well Association in 1987 and is currently a member of the North Dakota and South Dakota Well Drillers associations. He has been a member of NGWA most of his career and will wear the MGWC signature green blazer at this year’s Groundwater Week, December 3-5 in Las Vegas.