about horizontal directional drilling

About

Horizontal Technology, Inc. is a leader committed to improving the safety and professionalism of the HDD industry.

Our History: About Horizontal Directional Drilling

Decades of HDD Excellence—Built for the Future

At Horizontal Technology, Inc., we don’t just follow industry trends—we create them. Founded in 1996, our roots stretch back to the 1970s, when our founder, John English, first encountered HDD while pioneering advancements in the Oil & Gas drilling service industry. From offshore plug and abandonment to the Federal Storage Well Program, John’s expertise paved the way for HDD innovation.

With a relentless drive to advance the industry, we quickly assembled a veteran HDD management team, revolutionizing tools, services, and technology. Over the past two decades, millions of feet of precision-drilled pilot hole and thousands of complex HDD projects have cemented our reputation as the industry’s most trusted service provider.

In 2017, we strengthened our commitment to the future by merging with leading HDD engineering firm CCI Inc., further amplifying our ability to support next-generation projects.

Where HDD Innovation Meets Commitment

We take pride in our place in HDD history, but our focus is locked on what lies ahead—your success. Our dedication, expertise, and pioneering technology ensure greater efficiency, profitability, and reliability for HDD contractors worldwide.

Let’s build the future together. Call us today—because the best is yet to come.

Leading the Future of HDD with Innovation & Precision

At Horizontal Technology, Inc., we don’t just support the HDD industry—we set the standard. From engineering design to final pullback, our cutting-edge drilling tools and steering services redefine efficiency, accuracy, and durability.

We built our reputation on game-changing advancements. Our proprietary DataTraX software delivers real-time precision, while Hi-Resolution Steering Tools, the world’s most accurate magnetic steering tools, integrates gyro technology for unmatched directional control. And when it comes to breaking ground, our Viper hole opener is the industry’s toughest, longest-lasting solution.

No terrain is too challenging, no project too complex. Whether it’s pipelines, refineries, beach approaches, intersects, or extreme environmental conditions, we’re there—24/7—with the expertise and tools to make it happen.

Partner with the Best. Drive Success.

At Horizontal Technology, our mission is simple: maximizing production and profit for HDD contractors without ever compromising safety or integrity.

Let’s build something great together. Call our team today—and let’s start drilling smarter.

Revolutionizing HDD—From the First Hole Opener to the Industry’s Best

Before John English and Kent Rives developed the first hole openers specifically designed for HDD, contractors had limited options—water well split bits or repurposed Oil & Gas tooling that lacked the size, selection, and performance HDD demanded.

That changed with Horizontal Technology, Inc.. We pioneered a new era of HDD tooling, introducing groundbreaking solutions like lo-torque openers, the RockReamer, and the Viper^TM series—each raising the standard for efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

Now, the new Viper RockReamer^TM is setting the benchmark in hole enlargement. Unrivaled in versatility and durability, it delivers higher penetration rates, increased longevity, and lower costs, giving HDD contractors the edge they need to tackle the toughest conditions.

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Our People

Our mission is to be positive assets to our clients and to the successful competition of each and every project without compromising safety or integrity. From pipelines to refineries, beach approaches, intersects, or the toughest of environmental conditions, Horizontal Technology, Inc. continues to play a key role in the HDD industry’s most challenging projects. The Horizontal Technology Team is ready to take your call and respond immediately, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.