NGWA Delegates represent the membership and are responsible for electing the Board of Directors, amending the Code of Regulations, reviewing Board actions, and deciding on other lawful matters brought before them.
NGWA delegates have the convenience of voting electronically, either through their phone, this web page, or at designated voting stations during. Voting closes at 4:30pm on Wednesday.
- Delegate Registration and Voting Times:
- Tuesday, December 9 — 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, December 10 — 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m (you must be in line by 4:00 p.m.)
- Candidates will present their speeches during the Awards and Keynote Ceremony on Wednesday, December 10.
- The Delegates’ Meeting starts at 5:00 p.m. in the La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom. Please join us for a reception prior to the meeting featuring an open bar and appetizers starting at 4:30 p.m.
Meet the NGWA Board of Directors Contractor candidates!
Five candidates are running for three vacancies on the NGWA Board of Directors. Per Section 7.6 of the code of regulations, the delegates are responsible for electing all directors to NGWA regardless of their membership section. They are as follows (in alphabetical order).
John Boyette Jr., CVCLD (incumbent)
John Boyette Jr. entered the groundwater industry in 1996 when he founded his well drilling business along with his father. A 1989 graduate of Wake Forest University, John currently serves as president of Boyette Well & Septic Inc. in Wilson, North Carolina. John has been a dedicated leader in the groundwater community for over two decades, serving on the board of the North Carolina Ground Water Association for 24 years, holding all offices, including a term as president from 2012 to 2015. He has also served as a commissioner on the North Carolina Well Contractors Certification Commission and contributed to numerous committees. In 2016, he began volunteering with Wells of Living Water International, a mission team that drills wells in the Piura region of Peru—a deeply meaningful way for him to give back.
Why am I running for the board? I am seeking re-election to the NGWA Board of Directors because I believe our industry is at a pivotal moment, and the current board has a strong, collaborative spirit focused on achieving long-term goals. I’m committed to advancing our industry by educating both contractors and well owners. Since 2000, I’ve hosted at least two continuing education classes annually in Wilson, and I currently serve as president of the Groundwater Foundation, which further reflects my dedication to education and outreach. In this industry, we succeed when we work together—my biggest competitor is also my best friend, and I truly believe we are Better Together.
Scott De Young, CPA
Scott De Young has more than 23 years of experience in the groundwater industry and currently serves as President and CEO of Municipal Well & Pump. With a background in finance and a CPA designation, Scott entered the industry from the business side and has since developed a deep appreciation for its people, purpose, and impact. Under his leadership, Municipal Well & Pump has expanded its reach and built a strong reputation for service, integrity, and innovation. Scott is passionate about giving back to the industry that has shaped his career. He remains actively involved in professional development efforts through the Ground Water Institute and Wisconsin Rural Water, where he has also taught continuing education classes. As a potential NGWA Director, Scott brings a unique perspective on business strategy, leadership development, and operational excellence—combined with a strong commitment to supporting NGWA’s mission and the future of the groundwater profession.
Why am I running for the board? With over two decades in the groundwater industry, I’ve developed a deep appreciation and respect for the work we do. Though I didn’t grow up in this field, I’ve grown into it—starting from the finance side with a CPA background and moving into leadership. My journey has included learning the technical aspects of industry, understanding the value of relationships, and recognizing the critical importance of water to our communities. I believe in giving back to the industry that has given so much to me. I want to stay connected, help strengthen our profession, and contribute in areas where I have experience and passion—namely business operations, strategic planning, and leadership development.
Travis Denevan
Travis Denevan brings over 30 years of experience in the water well industry. Throughout his career, he has held licenses in seven western states and, since relocating to Alaska in 2009, has continued to grow his expertise and commitment to the profession. In 2011, Travis became the owner of Valley Well Drilling, where he remains actively involved in daily operations. He also contributes to both his state water well association and the Pacific Northwest regional association, offering his support wherever needed.
Why am I running for the board? If elected, I am committed to serving wherever I’m most needed to help protect and preserve our most vital resource—clean drinking water. I believe safeguarding groundwater is among the most critical responsibilities we share as an industry. As stewards of this resource, it is our duty to ensure proper protection, regulation, and, when necessary, mitigation of impacts. I value being part of an organization like NGWA that brings together thousands of years of collective experience to serve as a trusted resource for government agencies, industry professionals, and the public alike.
William McPike
William McPike is the owner and president of Geothermal Drilling Inc., a company originally founded in 1991 with a single rig and a three-person team. Five years later, William purchased the business outright and has since grown it into a thriving operation with three rigs, a pulling unit, and 15 employees. With over 30 years of experience in the geothermal and water well industry, he is licensed in Texas and Louisiana with former licenses in the states of New Mexico and Oklahoma. William is a former president of the Texas Ground Water Association, is an accredited member of IGSHPA, and is a longtime NGWA member of more than 20 years where he contributes his expertise as a member of the NGWA Government Affairs Committee as well as the Western Regional Policy Committee.
Why am I running for the board? Throughout my involvement with NGWA, both through committee work and by attending Groundwater Week, I’ve gained invaluable knowledge and built strong connections across the industry. I’ve always appreciated being able to reach out to others in the groundwater community for advice and support, and now I’d like to give back in the same way. If elected, I hope to share my experience to help educate both industry professionals and the public about the importance of protecting our freshwater resources. I want to be someone others feel comfortable calling for guidance, just as I’ve leaned on those who served before me. I’m passionate about this industry and its people, and it would be an honor to represent Texas as a NGWA Director while continuing to promote and protect the future of groundwater.
Charles “Buddy” Sebastian, CWD/PI
Charles “Buddy” Sebastian is a third-generation water systems contractor and currently serves as President and General Manager of Sebastian & Sons Well Drilling Inc. in Michigan. Over the past 15 years, he and his brother have strategically acquired four competing companies, transforming their operation from a one-rig outfit into a thriving business with 16 employees, two locations, four rotary rigs, and three cable tool rigs, all built through ethical and sustainable business practices. In addition to serving as a Director on the NGWA Board, Buddy is in his fifth consecutive year as president of the Michigan Ground Water Association—the only person to be elected more than three times. He also chairs the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Director’s Water Well Advisory Committee, serves on the state’s Water Use Advisory Council, appointed by the legislature to advocate for groundwater industry issues at the policy level.
Why am I running for the board? With nearly 40 years in the water well industry, I have witnessed a concerning decline in the number of contractors across the country—often due to a lack of succession planning, unsustainable business models, or the perception that this industry isn’t viable for the next generation. I am seeking re-election to the NGWA Board of Directors because I want to help NGWA lead a cultural shift—one that positions water well professionals as the first choice for water solutions, not the alternative to municipal supply. My goal is to help NGWA members raise the bar on professionalism, profitability, and long-term planning. I believe a fully trained water well professional is among the most skilled tradespeople in the world and should be compensated accordingly. Through NGWA, I hope to promote a strong vision for the future—one where we attract and retain top talent, instill sound business practices, and build a thriving industry for generations to come.
Meet the NGWA Board of Directors Manufacturers section candidate!
There is one candidate running for the Secretary position on the Manufacturers Section Board. The individual will also serve as a Director in the NGWA Board of Directors.
Kevin McGinnis
Kevin is the President and CEO, Cotey Chemical Corporation in Lubbock, Texas, and has worked in the water well remediation industry for 32+ years and has presented workshops across the United States, both for state organizations and for the American Ground Water Trust. In addition to his work in the U.S., he has worked on water well rehabilitation projects in Central America, the Far East, and several countries of the Middle East and delivered technical papers to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Agriculture & Water and the Philippine Water Works Association. Kevin has been on the board of the American Ground Water Trust for 25+ years, serving as the chair for several terms totaling seven years, and been a member of the National Ground Water Association and the Texas Ground Water Association for 25 years. As a member of his local Rotary Club for 28 years, Kevin was involved in drilling water wells in rural areas of Mexico and delivering medical supplies and equipment to underserved areas in South America. Kevin was named the 2021 McEllhiney Distinguished Lecturer by the National Ground Water Association and Groundwater Foundation. He is currently serving on the Manufacturers Section Board of Directors.
Why am I running for the Secretary position on the Manufacturers Section Board of Directors? By serving as Secretary on the Manufacturers Section Board, I’m hoping be part of a team to facilitate stakeholder participation in water resource decisions. I believe groundwater is a vital resource and as such, I want to continue promoting efficient and effective management of it. And finally, I want to help showcase groundwater science and technology solutions.