NGWA announced that Mike Griffis, CVCLD, of Trinity Water Solutions LLC in Jarrell, Texas, has earned the designation of Master Groundwater Contractor (MGWC).
Griffis, 52, is a second-generation groundwater professional. His father, Stanley Howard Griffis Jr., was among the first three individuals to earn the MGWC designation when the program was established in 1982. Stanley passed away on November 4, 2025. According to NGWA, Mike and Stan are the only known father-son pair to have both achieved the MGWC designation.
“I’ve always tried to do my best in everything I’m involved in. My dad was the same way,” said Griffis, who was born in 1973, the same year his father founded Griffis Drilling Specialists in Alachua, Florida.
Before starting his own water well and pump company in June 2020, Griffis spent 20 years as an engineer in the oil and gas industry. He earned a degree in petroleum engineering from the Colorado School of Mines in 2000 and later received an MBA from the University of Denver. His experience working alongside his father — and seeing the impact of providing reliable water access — ultimately led him to pursue a career in the groundwater industry.
“I remember that when we finished a job, customers were genuinely satisfied,” Griffis said. “We were providing something essential. Regardless of the conditions — mud, rain, or cold — there was always a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day.”
Today, Griffis operates one drilling crew and two rigs: a 1981 Portadrill TLS for deep-hole drilling and a 1978 Chicago Pneumatic (CP) 650 SS rig. Based in central Texas, approximately 45 miles north of Austin, his work typically involves wells averaging 600 feet in depth. About 90 percent of his projects serve residential customers.
“I developed an interest in drilling at a young age,” Griffis said. “Once it takes hold, it stays with you. I’ve been around this work my entire life.”
Griffis will be recognized for earning the MGWC designation at Groundwater Week 2026, which is co-locating with the Irrigation Association and taking place December 8–10 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The MGWC designation recognizes contractors who demonstrate exceptional knowledge and commitment to water well construction and pump installation. Candidates must have a minimum of five years of active industry experience, hold all current NGWA certifications, and pass a comprehensive four-hour examination covering a broad range of technical competencies. Click here to learn more about it.