BC Inventor Wins Manning Innovation Award for Speedy Sonic Drill

Sonic Drill Makes Waves with Environmental Applications

CALGARY, Sept. 8 /CNW/ - Ray Roussy, a mechanical engineer from Surrey, BC, will take home a coveted $10,000 Innovation Award from the Ernest C. Manning Awards Foundation for developing one of the fastest drilling systems in the world. Roussy's sonic drilling technology, which he began developing in his own backyard nearly three decades ago, is in use on six continents and gaining worldwide recognition, especially as an environmentally-friendly alternative.

Today, Roussy's sonic drill is commonly used to quickly install geothermal energy loops, provide continuous core samples for environmental investigations and explore possible mineral deposits.

"There is a critical need for more innovation in Canada - Canadians need to create and commercialize innovations to compete in the global economy," says Bruce Fenwick, Executive Director of the Ernest C. Manning Awards Foundation. The Foundation, which is named after the former Alberta Premier, has provided over $4.2 million in awards, celebrated 225 adult and youth award winners and has had over 2,500 nominations in its 29-year history. Adds Fenwick, "the Foundation's laureates are role models who inspire Canadians."

Unlike a traditional drill rig, the sonic drill uses high-frequency mechanical vibrations to easily cut through earth formations and bedrock. Not only is the sonic drill at least three to five times faster, it can also bore through tough terrain that typically stops other rigs. As a result, it is often used as a "rescue rig" where traditional drill rigs have failed.

"I think its versatility is what makes the sonic drill a leader in its field," says Gary Whitesell, owner of Alberta company Crater Lake Drilling Ltd. "It is the most multi-functional piece of equipment I have ever seen in the drilling industry."

Roussy is president of the contracting company, Sonic Drilling Ltd., and US-based Sonic Drill Corporation. He is also co-owner of the manufacturing company, Sonic Drill Systems. Combined together, the companies employ more than 50 people in Chilliwack and Surrey, BC. Overall company revenues are $8-10 million annually.

Roussy will receive his award in Ottawa on September 17th, in front of an audience of Canadian innovators, elected officials, educators and business leaders at a gala hosted by Senator Pamela Wallin, OC, Preston Manning, CC, and Bernard Lord.

The Ernest C. Manning Awards Foundation (www.manningawards.ca) recognizes the importance of Canadian innovation in strengthening our nation's capacity to compete in the global economy. The Foundation annually supports and celebrates Canadians with the imagination to innovate and the stamina to succeed.

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For further information: Sonic Drilling Ltd.: www.sonicdrilling.com; Ray Roussy: T(604-572-1895), [email protected]; Nancy Argyle: T(403-452-0880), [email protected]; Ernest C. Manning Awards Foundation: Bruce Fenwick: T(403-645-8288), [email protected]