WWJ Closeup, July 2026

JEFFREY LAFRAMBOISE
Project Manager
LaFramboise Well Drilling And Water Service
Thompson, Connecticut

WHAT ARE KEYS TO STREAMLINING GEOTHERMAL JOBSITE EFFICIENCY?
Workforce and equipment. Conventional drill rigs have always been used, and it’s unique to see development of newer rigs. New rigs with rod handling systems have streamlined many procedures. Equipment has evolved in the last couple years. Workforce is the key factor—being able to train workers on the fly is huge.

HOW IS YOUR COMPANY KEEPING UP WITH GEOTHERMAL SCALING?
We’ve seen projects of all different sizes whether it be a 20- or 300-bore system. We try our best to adapt to what we need to get the job done. New England is one of the most challenging to drill bores to depth while giving the customer the best overall product.

TOP TIPS FOR CONTRACTORS DIVERSIFYING INTO GEOTHERMAL?
Be willing to accept what the ground gives you. Drilling is a very challenging business. Whether you are doing a couple wells or 200. Each bore will be different. Be ready for the unexpected.

TOP LESSONS LEARNED IN GROUTING AND INSTALLING LOOPS?
Over the last couple of years, we’ve dealt with all different variations of jobs, whether it be keeping an entire parking lot clean or dealing with saltwater and 500-plus GPM. Using weights attached to the loop for install has been our saving grace. Grouting, we have changed our technologies to streamline the process.

HOW CAN GEOTHERMAL MEET THE DEMANDS OF DATA CENTER COOLING?
Geothermal is a free resource, which we do not take enough advantage of. Get more engineers involved so we can take advantage of a free resource going forward.

WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE TO INCREASE WORKFORCE TO MEET CURRENT AND FUTURE GEOTHERMAL WORKLOAD?
Training. In New England, we don’t offer many training applications for geothermal workforce. We’re currently training on the fly. There is not much workforce that wants to stand near a drill rig every day, so having training and introducing new employees to the job would benefit the workload going forward.