Inside ECA’s Training Philosophy with Jason Martinelli: How Experience, Adaptability, and Real-World Knowledge Set Operators Up for Success

ECA’s training department has earned a reputation throughout North America for producing confident, capable, safety-minded operators. One of the biggest reasons for that success is the team behind the training—professionals like Jason Martinelli, whose blend of field experience and passion for teaching creates an environment where operators don’t just learn, they grow. 

Jason’s training philosophy begins with understanding people. No job sites are the same, and neither are trainees. “I ask each person what they know about the rig,” he explains. “Some know a little, some know nothing. I adjust my training from there.” By meeting operators where they are, whether they’re beginners or veterans, Jason creates a tailored experience that accelerates learning and builds confidence. 

His approach blends theory, practical knowledge, and situational awareness. He emphasizes concepts like letting the tool do the work, reading ground conditions, and understanding the differences between drilling in the Midwest versus the Northeast, Canada, or Hawaii. He uses analogies, like comparing a Milwaukee hand drill’s behavior to a 6-foot core barrel on a BAUER rig, to help operators intuitively grasp complex principles. 

One of his signature training tools is the Triangle of Life: look up, look down, look out. This simple framework teaches operators how to maintain awareness of the rig’s behavior, the machine’s data, and the crew around them.

What makes Jason’s training approach stand out is his knowledge in combination with the company’s commitment to continual improvement. “ECA treats training as a working document,” he says. “We’re always growing it, improving it, and making sure our internal team knows as much as the operators we train.” That means internal training, structured learning paths, ongoing assessment, and a readiness to adapt to new technology.

Unlike rental houses that provide only basic equipment introductions, ECA sends seasoned field specialists directly to the job site. Jason points out what the controls do, he drills the first holes with the crew, teaches rig assembly and disassembly, works with ground staff, and ensures everyone understands both the “how” and the “why.” 

“We might stay with a customer for a month if that’s what they need,” he says. That investment pays off with smoother startups, better decision-making, safer operations, and operators who feel genuinely supported.

Jason also makes himself reachable long after training ends. His phone is on 24/7—a habit rooted in his own past experiences of being stuck in the field with nobody to call. “I’d rather you call me at 3 a.m. than find out on Monday a rig went over,” he says. This level of access, commitment, and care is rare and customers notice. 

ECA’s training department is built on this foundation: real knowledge, real experience, and real dedication to operator success. It’s training, it’s mentorship, problem-solving, and partnership.