About DFI
The Deep Foundations Institute (DFI) is an international association of contractors, engineers, manufacturers, suppliers, academics and owners in the deep foundations industry.
Who We Are
DFI is an international association whose members are geoprofessionals involved in the design and construction of deep foundations, excavations and tunneling. These project owners, general and specialty contractors, consulting and design engineers, equipment and material manufacturers and suppliers, educators and students gather at conferences, seminars and in committee meetings to network, educate, communicate and collaborate. In these forums they work together to share knowledge and improve the design and construction of projects with complex geotechnical conditions.
DFI's Mission
To bring together multidisciplined individuals and organizations to find common ground and create a shared vision and a consensus voice for continual advancement in the deep foundations industry.
DFI's Vision
To be the global forum for sharing and advancing practical geotechnical design and construction.
Strategic Plan
Strategic Plan 2024-2028
In a rapidly evolving landscape, DFI stands at a pivotal moment, where strategic foresight and innovative action are crucial to driving success and sustainability. Our strategic plan is anchored in three key initiatives that are designed to propel our mission and enhance our impact: industry awareness and advancement, corporate membership growth, and themed conference vision and planning.
Our commitment to advancing the industry and increasing awareness is fundamental to our strategic vision and the sustainability of both DFI and the sectors we serve.
Through effective leadership and collaboration, DFI aims to address the challenges our member firms are facing in recruiting personnel by attracting new talent to the diverse career paths available. By leveraging the experience of related associations and companies in their pursuit of workforce development, we can collectively create and deliver a consistent, compelling message that increases the visibility of deep foundations, ground improvement and underground construction careers.
This initiative is designed to highlight the broad range of opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds, whether they seek a degree or wish to engage directly as field personnel.
The expansion of our corporate membership base is crucial to DFI’s vitality and sustainability. A diverse and robust membership network is necessary to foster meaningful interaction and consensus within our industry’s community of professionals.
This initiative is centered on developing targeted strategies to attract and retain corporate members, enhancing the value proposition of membership, and fostering meaningful engagement. Through strategic outreach and tailored benefits, we seek to build a thriving community of partners that contribute to and benefit from our collective success.
Conferences serve as a cornerstone for knowledge exchange, networking, and showcasing industry advancements. DFI’s approach to conference vision and planning is designed to create impactful, engaging, and forward-thinking events that reflect our commitment to excellence.
This initiative involves setting a clear vision for our conferences, optimizing planning processes, and ensuring that our events deliver exceptional value to attendees. By focusing on themes that are relevant to our industry’s challenges and the markets we serve, we can harness the collective expertise of our specialty companies to engage with those seeking solutions. Through innovative content, high-caliber speakers, and strategic partnerships, we aim to attract a wider group of attendees and position our conferences as premier forums for dialogue and development.
These initiatives form the bedrock of our strategic plan, guiding our efforts to strengthen industry leadership, expand our membership, and deliver outstanding conferences. As we embark on this journey, our focus is on fostering growth, driving innovation, and achieving excellence to provide greater value to our growing membership. Through deliberate and strategic action, DFI is poised to make a significant impact and secure a prosperous future for our organization and its members.
DFI History
Deep Foundations Institute (DFI) was incorporated as a 501(c)6 association in January 1976. It was founded by Jack Dougherty and Hal Hunt during the “Pile Talk” seminars and became a multidisciplinary worldwide membership organization. After forty years the organization has grown from 70 charter members to over 4,000 industry professionals.
Dig Deeper
Learn more about how DFI is helping to promote growth and advancement for the deep foundations industry through its community of members.
Merchandise Store
DFI Merchandise is now available! Show your participation in the DFI community with cool apparel and accessories sporting the DFI logo.
DFI By-Laws
Download the most recent version of the DFI By-Laws as amended through May 2021.
DFI Educational Trust
The Deep Foundations Institute Educational Trust is the charitable arm of DFI, established to support and encourage individuals in the fields of study related to the deep foundations industry through scholarships, grants and opportunities to meet and work with deep foundations industry leaders.