Quad Smalley
Co-Founder
Delivering trenchless utility construction across Louisiana and the Gulf South. Experience that spans the complete lifecycle of fiber network projects—from planning and directional boring through activation.
About Us
20+
Who We Are
Underground Fiber and Utility Solutions—Fast. Reliable. Done Right – The First Time.
Utility Directional is a Gulf South horizontal directional drilling (HDD) contractor specializing in underground fiber optics, telecom conduit, power, water, and gas installations. We support the rapid expansion of broadband and essential utilities across Louisiana, Mississippi, and the greater Gulf region—delivering precise, trenchless construction with minimal surface disruption.
Our team brings decades of field experience, state-level certifications, and a commitment to safety that keeps every project on schedule and done right the first time.
Mission | Vision | Values
Who We Are
We’re builders, problem-solvers, and partners to telecom providers, utilities, municipalities, and prime contractors across the Gulf South. From rural broadband to major utility backbone installs, our specialized HDD crews ensure your underground systems are placed accurately, safely, and efficiently.
Our Mission
To deliver innovative, reliable, and efficient HDD solutions that exceed client expectations and strengthen the region’s utility infrastructure.
Our Vision
To become the Gulf South’s most trusted underground utility and fiber installation partner—setting the industry standard for safety, quality, and smart trenchless construction.
Our Core Values
Safety. Sustainability. Reliability. Partnership. These principles guide every job site, every crew member, and every project we deliver.
Why Choose Utility Directional?
We deliver safe, reliable, and efficient HDD solutions backed by proven Gulf South experience. With modern capabilities and a commitment to getting it done right the first time, we’re the trusted partner for broadband, 5G, and utility expansion.
Industry-Proven Leadership
Founded by veterans with decades of fiber, telecom, and trenchless utility experience. We bring the knowledge, discipline, and technical skill required for complex HDD projects.
Fleet & Tech Advantage
Our crews operate eco-friendly Ditch Witch drills, real-time GPS tracking, mud recycling systems, and advanced fluid management for maximum precision and minimal environmental impact.
On-Time Delivery
From rural long-haul fiber to congested urban utility corridors, we consistently deliver projects on schedule. Our recent 22-mile fiber expansion completed under budget speaks for itself.
Compliance Ready
OSHA-certified crews. Licensed across Louisiana. In-house permitting. Environmental compliance baked into every step. We handle the red tape so you stay focused on deployment.
Dedicated Experts, Reliable Solutions
Meet The Team
Dustin Garrison
Co-Founder
Leading client engagement and project execution. A background in sales leadership and operational planning that ensures projects stay on schedule from award through completion keeping crews productive and efficient
James Ridge
Co-Founder
Bringing risk management expertise from executive cybersecurity leadership. An infrastructure resilience background that shapes the company’s approach to mission-critical utility construction.