Let’s look at some of the most common questions on the stand this year?

• What is Get Kids into Survey. 

Get Kids into Survey is an initiative to try and inspire future geospatial experts. With the mission statement: To get every child to understand the terminology of survey and geospatial in every language globally, resulting in kids wanting to be part of the industry, reducing demand for staff.

• How does it work? We are funded for my industry to create exciting resources for children. Our resources combine school subjects with geospatial terminology and information. To bring forward the geospatial industry knowledge to younger children, with the hopes that they gain an understanding of what they do and potentially go on to study for a career in geospatial.

• How can we collaborate with Universities? We would love to chat to Universities about how we can work together! 

• Ages GKiS target? Children aged 8-12 years old.

• Who takes care of taking this to schools and kids? Our Brand Ambassador network are our foundation. These wonderful volunteers from industry seek out local outreach opportunities and use our resources to help inform the groups about surveying.

Parents and teachers also have access to all of our resources as they are free on the website. The idea is they are easily accessible worldwide so that anyone can use them!

• How would it benefit potential companies to be part of GKiS? By joining Get Kids into Survey as a Brand Sponsor you are helping the future of the industry. We need to attract more talent to study these careers and then go on to enter the profession. We do this by creating educational resources with sponsorship money, which are customised to the sponsoring company.

By being a sponsor you receive a cool bespoke cartoon character which can be used in your marketing too. We have a large following so will post about your company on our social media and website to promote your company for being a part of our mission.

-What was the most popular product/poster? 

Everyone loved all of the posters, it really brought a bunch of people to the stand and there was a lot of interest. The one we kept hearing the most about was “A world without Surveyors” which is one of our latest releases based on the GeoSquad Comic Book scene of Middletown.

We didn’t have many Comic Books to take with us so we just had a demo or two, we are pleased to say we now have 500 in stock!! They are available through our website here.

-Intergeo 2023 was our teammate Paola’s FIRST event in the industry, we asked her how she found it:

“My main realisation from the event was: “There has to be more awareness about the geospatial world” 

I love the fact that GKiS is doing exactly that, there is so much opportunity in so many levels in the industry that I feel that are only known by those in it. 

There has to be more attention about what the industry is and does to those not involved in it”.

-What Does the Future Hold for Get Kids into Survey and the Industry as a Whole!

This was our presentation this year as part of the early careers section on the Expo Stage. There were a bunch of people interested in GKiS in general who had never heard about us. The feedback was really positive… Energetic, fun, different. Which explain our company well, we think!

-GKiS was featured on Intergeo TV! Watch here:

https://youtu.be/Rm1nFjkmHcE?si=-w9SQYOjBB1-QFHl

Welcome to our latest sponsors Maltby Surveys… don’t forget to check out their Homework Project ‘Keeping and Eye on London’

1.   Company Name –Maltby Land Surveys Ltd
2.   Location – Haywards Heath, Warwick, Huddersfield, London.
3.   Why is it important for your company to help Get Kids into Survey? Our aim is always to be pushing our industry forward and we feel investing in the future is the most important way in which we can do this. To be able to give back to future generations and share the knowledge we have amassed through four decades in the industry is something we feel passionately about. As a family business with two generations involved, the future of the industry is something we want to look after and getting kids into surveying is the way to do that.

Surveying is still a relatively small industry and that can mean that finding surveying as a potential career for a young person is a challenge within itself. The bigger the reach and the more accessible information for young people out in the open means a better chance of giving kids the opportunity to consider surveying as an option. This is vital in order to preserve the industry for future generations.

4.   What do you do? We are a multidisciplinary Geomatics company. We specialise in producing highly accurate measured building surveys, BIM models and both 2D and 3D Topographical Surveys from our Haywards Heath office. Whilst our Warwick office predominantly carry out large and small Inshore Hydrographic surveys. This can range from flood defence work to large scale residential development projects.
5.   How long have you been in the survey industry? 38 years.
6.   How did you end up getting into the geospatial industry? My first job was working for Thames Water in the Hydrographic department in Reading in the 70s! Learning the “ropes” from some very experienced Naval Hydrographers. We would measure the depth of the River Thames from Teddington in London to Lechlade in Gloucestershire. We would use echo sounders and sextants and produce contour plans showing all the high and low spots under the water. This information was used as the basis for dredging plans to make sure the Thames was always navigable for both small and large vessels.

7.   State a funny fact about you… I used to spend my days flying around the seafront at Brighton pinching people’s chips and ice cream. Then one day I decided to get a proper job, so I took my exams and qualified as a drone pilot. So now I let these airborne machines do all that exhausting flying that I used to do, and I have enough money to buy my own chips and ice cream. If you ever come down to Brighton, be sure to look out for me. I’m the big friendly seagull with the “Maltby Surveys” hard hat – you can’t miss me!

8.   Favourite piece of kit and why? Our intention is always to stay as cutting edge and up to date with the latest techniques and methods within the industry as we possibly can and for that reason we are currently extremely excited at what our Drone is currently capable of producing. Not only is it capable of producing a wide range of stunning photography, it is also allowing us to broaden the range of deliverables we can offer. It is an exciting time to be in the industry as technological advancements are moving quicker than they ever have before and because of this; it means the entire industry is having to change with it. The fundamentals remain the same but what we can offer to clients keeps evolving and moving forwards. Its great to remain at the forefront of it.
9. Your website
10. How did you choose the character and what does he/she/it represent? Mean to you? What’s his/her name? Our Seagull ‘Stanley’ felt apt owing largely to two of the three company directors’ close affinity to Brighton and Hove Albion football club; the seagull being their longtime mascot. It also felt appropriate to have a flying character owing to the newest member of our equipment fleet; our Drone. Showcasing our aerial capabilities is something we are keen to push forward and we like to think our Seagull could help us!

Introducing Kent Groh our latest Brand Ambassador from Tempe, Arizona, USA:

Where did you study? Southern Illinois University – Carbondale

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area? HS Diploma + Experience

How did you get into surveying? While in high school, I was offered an opportunity to work at the Illinois Department of Transportation as a summer intern that introduced me to surveying and never looked back.

If you are not a surveyor, what do you do? Professional Curler

How long have you been in the industry? 33 years

Are you part of any associations or organizations you would like us to mention? The Geoholics Podcast

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? I’ve been a fan of this effort from day 1 and want to continue to support it in whatever capacity that may be.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? They are the life blood of the profession.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? Promote the great and honorable profession know as land surveying. What are your hobbies? Curling, Golfing, Podcasting, Appreciating Great Whiskey, Beer, Wine and Food.

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be? A Geoholic!

Anything else you want to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in? Something “app” based as kids start using cell phones/tablets as young as 18 months old.

Introducing Trimble! Who can be found in the most recent ‘All Roads Lead to Dimensions’ poster. Let’s learn some more about them:

1. Company Name – Trimble
2. Location – Colorado, USA
3. Why is it important for your company to help Get Kids into Survey? -Trimble is committed to supporting the surveying industry, including the next generation of surveyors. Get Kids into Survey is a great resource for bringing awareness to kids, students, teachers and the industry about the opportunities in surveying.
4. What do you do? Trimble creates a range of surveying technology including field software, office software, GNSS systems and optical instruments used in the survey, mapping, GIS and related industries.
5. How long have you been in the survey industry? – Trimble was founded in 1978 and since the beginning has helped create and advance technology for surveyors.
6. Favorite piece of kit and why? Trimble Business Center. Usually people choose a piece of hardware, but Trimble Business Center can take in all of the data collected by surveyors, bringing into once common data environment for QA/QC, processing and final deliverables.
7. Favorite Survey technique and why?  R12i GNSS on a 4-wheeler doing a topo, hard to beat a day in the field doing that.
8. Your website

Introducing our latest Brand Ambassador Drew Blessing from Abilene in Texas, USA:

Where did you study? I took additional classes online to supplement my Teaching Degree.

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area? The requirements for Texas can be found at the following link: https://pels.texas.gov/sit.htm

How did you get into surveying? I knew a guy who was in surveying and got into it thinking it would be a temporary position.

How long have you been in the industry? 17 years

Are you part of any associations or organisations you would like us to mention? Texas Society of Professional Surveyors https://www.tsps.org/

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? I am passionate about getting the next generation involved so that our profession continues to grow and expand.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? I think in general it is not presented because it is not known or understood.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? I am planning on contacting schools and trying to be a part of their career days and give presentations.  I would also like to hold community field days where kids could put their hands on equipment and learn about what we do.

What are your hobbies? We have a small farm and I enjoy hunting.

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be? My person character would be a surveyor in the wild west Texas crossing the deserted plains.

Introducing our latest Brand Ambassador Emanuel Nyasha Rugaro from Harare in Zimbabwe:

Where did you study? Midlands State University, Zimbabwe 

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area? Qualification from a recognised university/ college

How did you get into surveying? In 2012, I was doing my advanced-level education. We were invited to attend a career guidance seminar, and there were many people representing different professions. I met a Surveyor named Tinashe, and he took me on a tour, introducing me to professionals in the survey profession and showing me different equipment used by surveyors. He explained to me how this equipment is used and shared stories about how this profession is filled with adventure. He made it sound like all the surveyors have fun when working. It was at this moment that I decided I also wanted to be in this profession. 

How long have you been in the industry? I have 5 years experience in numerous projects spanning engineering surveys, cadastral/demarcation surveys, aerial and utility mapping surveys, road surveys, feature/topographical surveys, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) setting out surveys.This has also helped me sharpen my skillset around survey-related software and equipment.

Are you part of any associations or organisations you would like us to mention? Survey Institute of Zimbabwe 

Zimbabwe Institute of Geomatics 

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? I did my high school education from 2007 to 2012. In 2012, I was doing my advanced-level education. We were invited to attend a career guidance seminar, and there were many people representing different professions. I met an ambassador named Tinashe, and he took me on a tour, introducing me to professionals in the survey profession and showing me different equipment used by surveyors. He explained to me how this equipment is used and shared stories about how this profession is filled with adventure. He made it sound like all the surveyors have fun when working. It was at this moment that I decided I also wanted to be in this profession. I’ll never forget that kindness, and I want to pass it on to the young kids. Being a GKiS brand ambassador will give me the chance to encourage the young about our great profession and help them get connected to activities and friends. I’m naturally outgoing, and currently I’m vice president of the Zimbabwe Institute of Geomatics Youth Network, the youth network of a professional board representing the surveying and geomatics professionals in Zimbabwe. So I feel like I’m prepared to speak confidently to others about our profession as kids’ ambassadors. As an ambassador, I want to help GKiS bring awareness about the survey profession to the communities within my reach. 

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? Accurate land survey data is essential for making informed decisions about land use, property valuation, and infrastructure development. If kids know more about this profession, it will be easy for the surveyors there today to pass the button on to the next generation. Also, in most countries, there is a shortage of surveyors, and enlightening more of the children will help curb this shortage in the future.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? As an ambassador, I want to help GKiS bring awareness about the survey profession to the communities within my reach.

What are your hobbies?

Camping 

Hiking

Boat cruising 

Fishing

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be?

Geospatial kids

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? Geospatial Magazines, tshirts, handbooks 

Introducing our latest Brand Ambassador Aaron Michalenko from Phoenix, Arizona, USA:

Where did you study? I pursued my studies at Glendale Community College (A.A.S. in CAD Technology) and also at Phoenix College (A.A.S. in Land Surveying). During my time at these two colleges, I was deeply fascinated by land measurement and decided to specialize in cadastral surveying.

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area? In some areas, to become a licensed cadastral surveyor, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in surveying or a closely related field. Then, you must complete several years of work experience under a licensed surveyor and pass a licensing exam.  Arizona does not require the bachelor’s degree, but did accept my college years as a comparable 4 years of schooling, which was really cool of them.

How did you get into surveying? While at Glendale Community College, I came across a group of students working on a cadastral project. Back then, I thought I wanted to be an Architect.  The student’s work intrigued me, and it also had elements of Architecture in the courses, so I switched my focus to surveying. I’ve always had a keen interest in understanding and organizing data, and surveying provided a perfect blend of data, technology, and outdoor work.

How long have you been in the industry? I’ve been in the surveying industry for over 20 years now.

Are you part of any associations or organisations you would like us to mention? Yes, I am a proud member of the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? I believe in the potential of the younger generation. Being a GKiS Brand Ambassador would allow me to inspire them, showcasing how the geospatial industry can impact the world. Given my background and passion, I believe I can make a significant contribution.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? Understanding our world begins with understanding its dimensions. Surveying and geospatial sciences help us understand our environment, plan our cities, and protect our natural resources. It’s essential for kids to know about this, as they’ll be the ones to shape our future landscapes.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? I’ll leverage my platform to raise awareness about surveying. By hosting workshops, collaborating with schools, and using technology, I aim to make geospatial sciences more accessible to the younger generation.

What are your hobbies? I love learning new things.  Recently, I’ve started to teach myself how to create video games.  

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be?

Here are 10 options I like:

RiseRyder: A phoenix rising from a cityscape, embodying transformation and rebirth. Its wings showcase urban graffiti art, while it holds a digital GPS in its talons.

MetroMaverick: A cool, urban fox wearing sneakers and a snapback. This character is all about navigating both the challenges of the city streets and geospatial sciences.

RebelRadar: A street-savvy hawk with tattoos of coordinates on its wings, symbolizing a sharp vision that overcomes adversity.

NeonNomad: A chameleon that changes its colors to neon street art, holding a holographic map. Represents adaptability and modern tech vibes.

GraffitiGeo: A lion prowling the urban jungle, its mane adorned with colorful street art and it holds a laser scanner, representing strength and precision.

TechTideTurner: A dolphin equipped with sonar tech and VR goggles, symbolizing the leap from troubled waters to mastering modern geospatial tools.

PulsePioneer: A wolf with a digital heartbeat line running through its fur, holding a drone, representing the pulse of modern city life and tech innovation.

StreetSavvySatellite: A futuristic robot with traces of paint splatters, symbolizing the blend of street culture and high-tech geospatial advancements.

EchoElite: A panther with sound waves echoing from its paws, symbolizing the journey from unheard cries to making a significant mark in the world, all while holding a modern rangefinder.

UrbanUprising: A deer with antlers shaped like city skyscrapers, holding an augmented reality tablet, symbolizing growth, and the rise from challenges.

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? I’d love to see an interactive app or platform where kids can virtually experience the world of surveying, perhaps with augmented reality to bring the concepts to life.

Anything else you want to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in? Surveying isn’t just about measuring land; it’s about understanding our world and ensuring that we leave a sustainable environment for future generations. Encourage the young minds around you to explore, question, and delve into the geospatial realm. The future of our world depends on it.

Introducing our latest Brand Ambassador Eddie Fossler from Omaha, Nebraska, USA:

Where did you study? – I graduated from ITT Technical Institute with my Associates Degree in Computer Aided Drafting and 3D Animation

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area? – To Survey you need to be willing to work under other Surveyors, and be open to learning and challenging yourself. In order to become a Licensed Professional Surveyor in Nebraska, you need sufficient experience in the Surveying Profession (approximately five years), a recommendation from another Licensed Professional Surveyor, and the ability to pass the Professional Surveyor In Training test (PSIT) and then the Professional Licensed Surveyor test (PLS).

How did you get into surveying? – I got into Surveying by pure curiosity and willingness to try new things. After I had been in the profession for a few years and had been exposed to a variety of different types of Surveys, I got very excited about how I could learn and grow!

If you are not a surveyor, what do you do? – I draft and create every type of survey that is required from our projects. While not a Licensed Professional Surveyor, I do perform all of the duties and responsibilities of a PLS, the only difference is that I don’t sign surveys.

How long have you been in the industry? – 27 years

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? –Surveying has opened up my world in so many great ways, and my life is better for having had “dove in” and taken a chance on learning it. There is so much growing and changing in this profession, that the idea of being able to help young people become aware of and interested in surveying and the opportunities it creates is exciting and meaningful to me.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? – Because the disparity between how much the public knows about surveying and geospatial, contrasted to how important these professions are to our modern society is frankly shocking. Even if only to help create awareness four the future of our world, GKiS is a massively important movement.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? – I’m going to demystify some of the aspects of surveying and share my experiences and expertise in a way that’s relatable and fun. Tie surveying to our everyday lives and show kids how boundary, topography, and layout help create our modern society and create some of the fun things that we all enjoy! Whether it’s public presentations, or hands on demonstrations with local STEM groups, or even community organizations, I’m going to utilize my ambassadorship for GKiS as a great way to get those conversations started.

What are your hobbies? – I love creating podcasts, nature walks, rollerblading/skateboarding, singing, reading, watching movies and playing video games.

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be? – The Olsson Otter! We do quite a few waterway surveys and we’re fun and social!

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? – Perhaps an app that allows you to upload and share notable and interesting projects to share in demos and presentations?

Anything else you want to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in? – I think and animated short featuring the characters from GKiS would be amazing!!