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Ambassador Spotlight ‘CBI’

Introducing our latest team of Brand Ambassadors from The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science (CBI). For enquiries please reach out to Seneca Holland.

If you are not a surveyor, what do you do? The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science (CBI) at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi is an inclusive research environment utilizing geospatial science to support data driven decision making. The institute’s research laboratories develop innovative solutions informed by precise measurements honoring the legacy of the Blucher family and their commitment to surveying and science. CBI pushes the boundaries of geospatial science by applying cutting edge technologies to map, measure, collect and manage big data used to predict our physical environment.

How long have you been in the industry? The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science was dedicated on May 6, 1987. We just celebrated our 35th Anniversary!

Are you part of any associations or organisations you would like us to mention? The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science supports the Geographic Information Science, Geospatial Systems Engineering and Geospatial Computer Science Programs at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi. The Institute conducts innovative research and encourages scientists and professional engineers to develop and apply technology solutions relevant to surveying, scientific measurements, and to the issues in the Gulf of Mexico region. The Institute has achieved and maintains a national reputation for developing innovative geospatial science research and serves as a focused resource area for geospatial datasets relevant to the coastal environment.

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? For more than 35 years, the Conrad Blucher Institute has endeavored to increase awareness of and education in the fields of geospatial engineering and land surveying. We believe that together we can increase awareness of and broaden participation in the fields of geospatial engineering and land surveying. We can also increase preparation and enhance capacity throughout the region to foster and upskill a diverse workforce. By developing a strong coalition of multisector partners and uniting resources with the expertise of a broad range of stakeholders at local and regional levels, we can improve the resiliency of communities and economies throughout Texas.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? The number of skilled professionals entering the geospatial and land surveying fields has steadily declined and high-paying jobs across Texas are going unfilled. The average age of registered professional land surveyors in Texas is 59. With academic programs in land surveying seeing declines in enrollment, it is increasingly difficult to find new surveyors to step into roles left empty by a retiring workforce.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? The Conrad Blucher Institute, in collaboration with educational and industry partners, is leading the way in promoting and assisting Texas Independent School Districts (ISDs) in establishing this CTE Pathway. We are creating an educational pathway for K-12 students interested in pursuing a degree or career in the fields of geospatial engineering and land surveying. As part of our efforts with high schools in Texas we will bridge GKiS with the GELS CTE program.

What are your hobbies? Conducting measurement science in the Coastal Bend of Texas.

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be? A hydrographic surveyor on a boat deploying side scan sonar or a Surfing Surveyor.

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? Instructions and a materials list for activities that can be done with late elementary/middle school students

 

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Sutoidem Theophilus’

Introducing Sutoidem Theophilus from Lagos, Nigeria:

Where did you study?

I studied Geoinformatics & Surveying at the University of Uyo, Nigeria.

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area?

The requirements to become a registered surveyor by law in Nigeria are:

• A first degree in surveying or geomatics.
  • Completion of the mandatory one-year national youth service corps programme.
  • Application for and completion of two years of pupillage/mentorship under a surveyor who has been inpractice for at least five years.
  • Registration for the professional examinations organised by the Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON)
  • Submission of a survey folio with a log book(s), sitting for the written papers and attending an oral interviewbefore an examination panel.
  • Scoring at least fifty per cent (pass mark) in all the written papers and folio defence.
  • Attending the induction ceremony where the practising seal is issued to successful candidates and an oathof service is taken before the Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON).

How did you get into surveying?

I got into surveying out of the interest I grew with. As a young boy, I was exposed to the construction industry by my father who was a builder and town planner. The frequent site visits and intricacies of the built environment fascinated me a lot. This was a determining factor in my career choice when I was to enrol at the university. I have had a robust share of field experiences as I got into paid employment in my second year at the university.

How long have you been in the industry?

I have been in the industry for eleven years

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

I am a registered member of;
  • Nigerian Institution of Surveyors
  • FIG Young Surveyors Network (FIG YSN)
  • Volunteer Community Surveyor Program (VCSP)
  • Young Surveyors Network, Lagos State Branch
  • Land Surveyors United (LSU)
  • We Robotics
  • British Project Management Academy (BPMA)- student member
  • Geospace Survey Network
  • Surveyors Connect

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador?

I am beyond thrilled to convey my deep interest in becoming a Brand Ambassador for the remarkable initiative, Get Kids into Survey. Allow me to articulate why I am wholeheartedly passionate about taking on this role:

  • Nurturing the Next Generation: I firmly believe in the transformative power of education and the significance of introducing young minds to the captivating realm of surveying. As a Brand Ambassador, I envision inspiring and nurturing curiosity among children, unveiling the thrilling possibilities and boundless opportunities within the dynamic surveying industry.
  • Fostering Accessibility in Surveying: Get Kids into Survey is committed to breaking down barriers and making surveying relatable to children from all walks of life. As a Brand Ambassador, I actively aspire to contribute to this mission by orchestrating captivating events, workshops, and educational initiatives that bridge the gap between children and the enchanting world of surveying, transforming it into a fun and interactive voyage for them.
  • Empowering Tomorrow’s Trailblazers: By championing the Get Kids into Survey brand, I aim to empower and embolden the next generation of surveyors to fearlessly pursue their passions. I yearn to become a beacon of inspiration, sharing my journey and experiences, and exemplifying the profound impact surveying can have in shaping the world around us.
  • Driving Diversity and Inclusivity: Diversity and inclusivity are pivotal in every industry, including surveying. As a Brand Ambassador, I will ardently promote diversity, ensuring that children from all backgrounds feel represented and encouraged to explore surveying as a promising career path.
  • Collaborating with a Common Purpose: Embracing the role of a Brand Ambassador entails joining a community of like-minded individuals driven by a shared goal: to inspire and educate the next generation of surveyors. I am thrilled at the prospect of collaborating, learning from others, and collectively fostering positive change within the industry.

Get Kids into Survey has deeply touched my heart and kindled an unwavering passion within me to make a lasting impact on young minds. By assuming the role of a Brand Ambassador, I can contribute my skills, boundless enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication to this worthy cause. Together, let’s shape the future of surveying!

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry?

Enlightening children about surveying and the expansive geospatial industry holds tremendous significance for several compelling reasons:

• Unveiling Career Possibilities: Introducing surveying to kids from an early age grants them the opportunity to explore potential career paths they might not have previously considered. This exposure broadens their horizons and unlocks the doors to a field that seamlessly merges science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), presenting abundant prospects for growth and advancement.

  • Practicality: Surveying and the geospatial industry play a pivotal role in our everyday lives. Children who grasp the fundamentals of surveying can genuinely appreciate its contributions to mapping, infrastructure development, urban planning, environmental conservation, and disaster management. Such knowledge enables them to comprehend the vital role these industries play in shaping the world around them.
  • Nurturing Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Surveying entails the collection and analysis of data to facilitate informed decision-making. By introducing kids to surveying, we cultivate their critical thinking abilities as they learn the art of measurement, map interpretation, and spatial problem-solving. This analytical mindset instils curiosity and problem-solving acumen, which prove valuable across various aspects of their lives.
  • Embracing Technological Advancements: The geospatial industry constantly evolves, embracing cutting- edge technologies like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and global positioning systems (GPS). By acquainting children with these technologies and their applications, we expose them to state-of-the-art tools that are actively shaping our world. Such exposure ignites an interest in technology, innovation, and research.
  • Promoting Environmental Awareness: Surveying plays a pivotal role in environmental conservation and sustainable development. Children who grasp the concept of surveying understand the criticality of accurate measurements, monitoring our natural resources, comprehending land use patterns, and preserving ecosystems. This knowledge fosters environmental consciousness, instilling a profound sense of responsibility towards our planet.
  • By educating children about surveying and the broader geospatial industry, we inspire them to become future professionals who actively contribute to innovation, sustainable development, and the betterment of society as a whole. Moreover, it empowers them to make well-informed decisions and enables them to appreciate the interconnectedness between humans, the environment, and the built environment.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS?

My initiatives as an ambassador for Get Kids into Survey are comprehensive and focused on promoting the importance of introducing children to the field of surveying. By implementing these actions, I look forward to creating a strong foundation for generating interest and nurturing young talent in the industry. Here’s a summary of the initiatives:

  • Educational Campaigns: I will collaborate to develop campaigns to raise awareness about surveying and its career opportunities.
  • Outreach Programs: I will organize interactive workshops, presentations, and hands-on activities in schools and educational institutions.
  • Online Content Creation: I will create engaging and informative digital content about surveying through blog posts, videos, infographics, and social media campaigns.
  • Mentoring and Internship Programs: Establishing mentoring programs and collaborating with industry partners to provide internship opportunities for aspiring surveyors will be part of my plans as an ambassador.
  • Collaboration with Schools and Institutions: Partnering with educational institutions to include surveying- related topics in their curriculum or extracurricular activities is incorporated in my plan as well.
  • Events and Competitions: I will support and participate in surveying-focused events, competitions, and career fairs.
  • Advocacy and Partnerships: I will engage with policymakers, government bodies, and industry stakeholders to advocate for surveying education and collaborate with organizations in the geospatial industry.

By implementing these initiatives, I will inspire and empower children to explore the field of surveying, fostering a new generation of professionals who can contribute to the industry’s growth and societal development. Good luck with your role as an ambassador for Get Kids into Survey.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are; writing, research, swimming, listening to music across genres etc.

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

Setsuko Tanaka (The Eco Warrior)

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS?

As an ambassador for Get Kids into Survey, I believe it would be valuable to develop an interactive online learning platform or educational app specifically designed for children. This resource could offer engaging content and activities related to surveying, tailored to different age groups. Here are some key features and components that could be included in such a resource:
  • Interactive Lessons: The platform could provide interactive lessons that introduce children to the basic concepts of surveying in a fun and accessible way. These lessons could include videos, animations, and interactive quizzes to ensure an engaging learning experience.
  • Virtual Field Trips: Children could embark on virtual field trips to various surveying sites, where they can explore different types of surveying equipment, observe surveying techniques in action, and learn about real-world applications of surveying.
  • Hands-on Activities: The resource could offer a range of hands-on activities that allow children to apply what they have learned. This could involve using simple measuring tools, creating maps, or solving spatial problems.
  • Gamification Elements: Incorporating gamification elements such as points, badges, and rewards can make the learning process more enjoyable and encourage children to actively participate and progress through the content.
  • Career Exploration: The platform could provide insights into different career paths within the surveying industry. This could include profiles of surveying professionals, interviews, and real-life success stories to inspire children and showcase the diverse opportunities available.
  • Community and Collaboration: Creating a community feature where children can interact with peers who share an interest in surveying can foster a sense of belonging and provide a platform for sharing ideas and experiences. It could also enable collaboration on projects and challenges.
  • Resource Library: The resource could include a comprehensive library of educational materials, including downloadable worksheets, additional reading materials, and links to relevant external resources to further enrich the learning experience.
  • Teacher and Parent Resources: To support educators and parents in facilitating the learning process, the platform could provide supplementary resources such as lesson plans, guidance on incorporating surveying into the curriculum, and tips for hands-on activities at home or in the classroom.

By developing such an interactive online learning platform or educational app, Get Kids into Survey can provide children with an immersive and engaging experience that sparks their interest in surveying, promotes STEM education, and empowers them to explore the exciting world of geospatial sciences.

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Luciano Torreblanca’

Welcoming Luciano Torreblanca from San Fernando, Chile:

Where did you study? At the Metropolitan Technological University UTEM of Chile

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area? Study a minimum of 2 years.

How did you come to topography? For having studied Geography

How long have you been in the industry? I have been working in Topography for 27 years

Are you part of an association or organization that you would like us to mention? My company COMPGEO

Why do you want to be a GKiS brand ambassador? Because the industry needs to strengthen geotechnological knowledge by training future surveyors from a young age

Why is it important for children to know about surveying and the geospatial industry in general? The new geotechnologies are attractive to children and this allows them to master general knowledge about the types of measurements that are carried out on earth earlier, in this way they can develop specialties that discover new ways of measuring much earlier.

What are you going to do as a GKiS ambassador? Disseminate the brand and train young people and children to be interested in measurement geotechnologies.

What are your hobbies? Walking in unknown places surrounded by nature, playing football and riding a bike with my daughter.

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be? It would be a girl with a helmet and a compass in her hand

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? A poster on Easter Island measuring the Moai

Anything else you’d like to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in? The installation of a measurement application on cell phones to give it a more positive use.

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Sierra Swartz’

Welcoming our latest Brand Ambassador Sierra Swartz from North Carolina, USA:

If you are not a surveyor, what do you do? As SAM Companies’ Early Talent Management Program Lead, my focus is on promoting surveying as a career choice among high schools, vocational schools, colleges, and universities. SAM acknowledges the importance of early talent engagement to attract future surveyors and expand our industry’s talent pool. Through our efforts, we hope to make surveying a household name, discussed around family dinners just as confidently as any other profession!

How long have you been in the industry? I’ve been working in the geospatial industry for almost a year and a half. Honestly, if I would have known about surveying growing up my career path may have evolved differently. However, I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to introduce today’s youth to new career path ideas.

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? Being a Brand Ambassador with Get Kids Into Survey really aligns with my mission at SAM. I want to continue to promote this initiative on social media and spread awareness.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? It’s common to hear people say that they stumbled upon their profession without realizing its potential beforehand. Surveying is not a well-known occupation, and one that tends to go unnoticed by many. However, this is where effective education comes in. By teaching people, especially the youth, about the importance and benefits of surveying as an occupation – we’re setting the stage for a brighter future.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? My goal is to start engaging younger talent at a middle school level.

What are your hobbies? Running, Backpacking, Snowboarding, Cooking, and Gardening.

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

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? I would love to see some content geared towards attracting middle school & high school students to the profession!

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Ruben Del Rio’

Welcoming our latest Brand Ambassador Ruben Del Rio from San Juan, Puerto Rico:

Where did you study?: I’m currently working on my bachelor’s degree at the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area?: In order to become a Licensed or Professional Surveyor (PS) in Puerto Rico you need a Bachelor’s degree and you need to take the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) and Professional Surveying (PS) exams offered by NCEES. You also need to certify 2 years work experience under a Professional Surveyor (PS) before you become a PS.

How did you get into surveying? I actually discovered Surveying when I met my wife, Ruth Trujillo, who is a PS in Puerto Rico and USVI. I started asking her questions about her work and when she’d answer I’d just ask more questions. She invited me to come with her to the field and after that first experience I was hooked! I started begging her to let me go to the field with her and after a while she let me sit and watch her draft on CAD, which I also loved! She then started letting me draft and that was it. Watching those points that I shot on the field become lines, and those lines become a plat was amazing to me. I also fell in love with all the research that a Boundary Survey involves, that made me feel like a detective. For me, it was basically love at first survey.

How long have you been in the industry? I have been working at my wife’s firm since mid 2019, so that’s four years now.

Are you part of any associations or organisations you would like us to mention? I am currently a board member of the Association of Land Surveyors of Puerto Rico, and I like to collaborate whenever the Institute of Land Surveyors of Puerto Rico needs any help.

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? Well, surveying in Puerto Rico is basically in the same state as almost everywhere else; we absolutely NEED more surveyors ASAP. I believe that you need to impact children as soon as possible and show them what surveying is all about. That’s the best way to also get the parents involved! After all, when it comes to going out and doing the field work involved, we’re all kids at heart. For me, the whole world is my playground, and I want to share that with as many people as I can! I also think I could be a good teacher or mentor for those people that are discovering surveying.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? Because that’s where the future lies! Almost every kid has wanted to become an astronaut and go to space, but how did we even manage to get people to space? Everyone sees how buildings get torn down and put back up, but how is that really done? Well all that’s possible thanks to surveyors and the geospatial industry! Many times we joke about being “the second oldest profession”, but just because we’re “old” doesn’t mean we stay old! We are always at the forefront of new and amazing technology. And with things like virtual reality and augmented reality becoming so popular, the world is going to continue needing surveyors and geospatial professionals for many years to come. It’s a great time to be a surveyor!

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? I really want to visit as many schools and education centers as I can in Puerto Rico. I’m really passionate about bringing surveying and geospatial technology to everyone in the community and placing the profession where it belongs; in the Mount Rushmore of professions!

What are your hobbies? I enjoy gaming, also building, fixing and tinkering around with computers.

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be? I think it’d be something like me with a machete just cutting line… lol Or maybe just me, my survey vest and a robotic Total Station.

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? I’d really love to know more about how Elaine got the idea and started GKIS. I firmly believe we need more people like her (and you!) to help grow the surveying industry and profession. If we want to market surveying to get more surveyors we need marketing and business strategies, and those strategies shouldn’t always come from surveyors. They should come from people outside the profession because they’re the ones seeing us as everyone else sees us.

Anything else you want to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in? Well I’d like to invite everyone who’s ever wanted to see Puerto Rico and those who haven’t to come see Puerto Rico! We’re having our International Surveying Congress on March 2024!

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Leslynette Carrucini’

Introducing our latest Brand Ambassador Leslynette Carrucini, from Arlington, Virginia USA:

  1. Where did you study?

I have a bachelor’s degree in Land Surveying and Topography from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez campus.

  1. What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area?

If you just want to work in the surveying industry as a surveyor staff under a professional land surveyor you don’t need specific requirements. But If you want to be to be a professional land surveyor you must have:  1) Have a undergraduate degree in land surveying or related field from a university accredited by (EAC/ABET);  2)  Take and pass the Fundamental Surveying exam;  3) Have at least 4 years of experience working under a professional land surveyor; 4) Take and pass the national Professional Surveying exam;  5) Take and pass the State surveying exam. 

  1.   How did you get into surveying?

I started working in surveying when I was a teenager. A professional land surveyor gave me the opportunity to work for him over my summer breaks during which he mentored me, and as a result, I became interested in pursuing surveying as a career.

  1. How long have you been in the industry?

As full-time employee, I have been in the industry for more than seven years. 

  1. Are you part of any associations or organisations you would like us to mention?

I’m a member of the District of Columbia Association of Land Surveyors (DCALS), a member of the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) and a member of the Asociacion de Agrimensores de Puerto Rico (Association of Land Surveyors in Puerto Rico).

  1. Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador?

I have a lot of passion for Land Surveying because, while it is a profession that plays an important role in the development of society, unfortunately it is a profession that is shrinking. Over time there are less people interested in becoming a land surveyor, due to a lack of information about the profession. We as surveyors should help to inform the public about our profession and its importance in society. 

  1. Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry?

In order to encourage more people to join our profession have more land surveyors in the future, and to ensure that the broader public recognizes the importance of the surveying profession, we need to start encouraging the new generation to learn about surveying. 

  1. What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS?

My goal is to promote the education of children about surveying by visiting schools and talking about our profession, and by helping in any way that GKiS would like. 

  1. What are your hobbies?

I’m a musician so my main hobby is to play the traditional Puerto Rican hand drums in a local music group. I also like to dance, travel, and learn about other cultures.

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

A female land surveyor who is from the countryside of a small and remote island, but gets to do surveying all around the world.

  1. What resource would you like to see next from GKiS?

               Cartoon videos explaining what a land surveyor does and why it is important.

  1. Anything else you want to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in?

Keep talking about surveying to kids and the general public. Also, promote the GKiS web page to educators so they can find resources and ambassadors to educate their students about the land surveying profession.   

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Ekpereamaka Ibenegbu’

Introducing our latest Brand Ambassador from Enugu, Nigeria – Ekpereamaka Ibenegbu: 

Where did you study? I studied at the Department of Geoinformatics and Surveying University of Nigeria Nsukka

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area?

                                   The Requirement to be a registered surveyor includes:

                                     B.Sc in Geoinformatics and Surveying

                                     1 NYSC Service

                                     2 Years Pupilage under a registered  Surveyor

                                     SURCON Exam, Seal and License

How did you get into surveying? I had the passion to become a surveyor but I had no idea what course to study to become a surveyor but I got the knowledge through my mom who put me through.

How long have you been in the industry?  3 years

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

African Women in GIS(AWiGIS)

Women Aid Collective(WACOL)

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? In Africa, especially in Nigeria Surveying is not known among the kids which is a gap I am trying to bridge, serving as a middle man for this to happen, because we need kids to get to know about our profession in order to catch them young.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry? Career Exploration: Introducing kids to Surveying and geospatial technology at a very early age would expose them to potential career paths, it also allows them consider professions in fields such as land surveying, geographic information system(GIS), remote sensing, Drone technology, cartography etc.

Spatial Awareness: learning about surveying helps kids develop spatial awareness and understand the physical world around them, it gives them opportunity to learn about maps , coordinate measurement,  relationship between physical features and their representation on maps,

Problem Solving: Getting kids to get surveying can cultivate their problem-solving skills and analytical thinking abilities, because surveying involves solving real world problems related to land boundaries, infrastructure planning and so on, this will help them.

Technological Skills: The Geospatial industry relies solely on advanced technology such as GPS, GIS software, drones and satellite imagery. So getting kids familiarised with these technologies can prepare them for the digital era and help them develop technological proficiency.

Environmental Awareness: Geospatial data plays a crucial role in environmental studies and conservation efforts. Teaching kids about surveying and geospatial industry can promote an understanding of the environment, natural resources and the importance of preserving and protecting them.

So Overall, introducing kids into Surveying and the wider geospatial industry can foster their curiosity, critical thinking, and appreciation for the world around them, while also opening up potential career opportunities in a growing field.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS? I would partner with NGOs to reach out to school kids, also going into rural and urban schools for their career day to speak to them about surveying

What are your hobbies?

Coding

Reading Documentary

Researching

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

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? More Info on Technology when it comes to Robots, Lidar, Radar, GPS.

Anything else you want to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in? I would love and I am open to partner with surveyors, teachers and parents to get their kids to know about surveying.

Character Spotlight ‘Drone Pilot Academy’

Introducing Mavic the Maverick from Drone Pilot Academy:

Company Name– Drone Pilot Academy Ltd

Location– Based in the North of England in good old Barnsley but UK-wide.

That said we have run courses abroad to European Military Units and even market our survey training services in Saudi Arabia and have run numerous courses to their Government here in the UK.

Why is it important for your company to help Get Kids into Survey? Our main client base is from the Survey, Construction and Engineering Industries. We see clients from these industries, week in week out, on our courses and it is evident there is a workforce shortage in these areas.

To tackle the problem you need to get to the root of the issue and I believe that is promoting the industry at an early stage.

What do you do? We are a one-stop-shop for all things drones. We carry out practical and theoretical training on behalf of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and issue professional qualifications. We also conduct bespoke drone survey training so we can get you from ‘zero to hero’ in no time at all.

We also sell / hire drones and all the equipment that comes with them including software. So we can do it all in one place.

How long have you been in the survey industry? The MD started out in 2014 after finishing a 17 year career in the Royal Air Force flying Puma Helicopters and other aircraft and DPA are one of the longest-standing accredited training academies in the UK

How did you end up getting into the geospatial industry? I was on a resettlement course with the military, where they teach you to be a civilian in 2 days! A couple of Soldiers were discussing how they were using drones at weekends for wedding photography. I looked into the use of drones in the next break and realised how much utility they could have. I then bought my first drone online in the following break! And the rest is history as they say!

State a funny fact about you… Despite flying aircraft for over 2 decades, I am actually not a big fan of heights!

Favourite piece of kit and why? At the moment it is the Multinnov Stereo 2 Cage Drone used for Internal confined space inspections such as tunnels and Silos. I suppose it’s my favourite as it is novel and groundbreaking in what it can offer survey companies. It is super fun to fly too!

Favourite Survey technique and why? Obviously for me it is the ability to carry out topographical surveys using drones rather than on foot. The amount of time saved compared to walking the area and measuring using traditional methods is unreal!

Your website

How did you choose the character and what does he/she/it represent? Mean to you? What’s his/her name? I suppose at the time I had just been lucky enough to get a Spitfire flight for my 50th Birthday -The pilot looked very similar to my character. I wanted the character to portray the aviation aspect of the survey business so I wanted to make the reference between aviation and surveying obvious and interesting.

‘Mavic the Maverick’