Sponsor Us

Character Spotlight ‘Powell CWM’

Welcoming our latest Brand Sponsor, Powell CWM. Let’s learn some more about them:

1.   Company Name: Powell CWM, Inc.
2.   Location: Independence, Missouri, just outside of Kansas City.  Fun fact, it is where the Oregon trail started!
3.   Why is it important for your company to help Get Kids into Survey?  Hello fellow foxes and other friends! Very few kids are aware of the field of land surveying. I want to help raise awareness of this important career. Hopefully, we will see a diverse group of young surveyors in our future. There are so many job opportunities in the surveying industry. The field of land surveying has been transformed by new technologies, resulting in more efficient and accurate methods.  I hope GKIS can highlight these and create interest in our profession.
4.   What do you do?  As a licensed land surveyor (PLS), I get to explore and map cities, neighborhoods and the beautiful forests across Kansas and Missouri!
5.   How long have you been in the survey industry?  I’ve been learning about and working in the survey industry since the 1990’s.
6.   How did you end up getting into the geospatial industry? I took drafting classes in high school at the Evergreen Animal Academy and first thought I wanted to be an architect. While looking for computer aided (CAD) drafting careers in the animal kingdom I stumbled upon land surveying. Once I got to college, at Whiskers and Wings University they took us on a field trip to a factory, and I knew I didn’t want to draft nuts and hollow logs my entire life. I wanted to be outside and in nature every day! After that trip, I began an internship for engineers and surveyors and within a couple of months I knew it was the career for me.
7.   State a funny fact about you… One time I lost my favorite drone, a squirrel found it and tried to keep it! I traded lots of acorns to get it back!
8.   Favourite piece of kit and why? I love our Trimble MX-9 mobile scanner, I get to capture real life in 3D. Powell CWM is one of the first companies in Missouri to have one!
9.   Favourite Survey technique and why? My favorite technique is using the 3D laser scanner; I love working in a CAD 3D world! It really brings the forest to life!
10.  Your website
11.  How did you choose the character and what does he/she/it represent? Mean to you? What’s his/her name? We chose Skye the Fox because we wanted female representation within the surveying industry, today women make up around 26% of the industry, and we hope that we can help persuade young girls to balance out the gender gap in the industry.

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Nick Jensen’

Welcoming our latest Brand Ambassador Nick Jensen who is covering Western parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and eastern Wyoming and Montana! Let’s learn more about him:

How did you get into surveying? A high school teacher introduced surveying as part of his intro to engineering course. I was hooked on our first level loop.

What are your plans as a Brand Ambassador? I’m already part of a couple of initiative’s locally. One being Market Place for Kids, which has multiple locations across the state where employers of any industry can get in front of hundreds of kids at a time.

There are also some local initiatives that schools host themselves that I have participated in as well.

I plan on reaching out to other communities that I frequent to see if they have any similar programs.

Tell us a bit about what you do? I’m the owner of a land surveying company in Western North Dakota. I am licensed in NE,ND,SD,WY. I cover a lot of ground as I grew up in Nebraska, and still get back to see family and pick up work in underserved areas as I can.

Anything else you’d like to add? One of my goals when I started my company two years ago was to give back to an industry that has given me so much. I am just a one man operation for the time being, but hopefully when the right opportunities come along I can grow as a company and have an impact in the geospatial community.

Character Spotlight ‘TopoDOT’

Welcoming TopoDot with their latest character as seen on the Spring Poster! Let’s learn some more about them:

1. Company Name: TopoDOT
2. Location: Our software is used worldwide, but Winter Garden, Florida is where we call home.
3. Why is it important for your company to help Get Kids into Survey (GKIS)? Team TopoDOT has long believed in Get Kids into Survey’s mission: introducing the next generation to the wonderful world of surveying. The average age of a surveyor is 55, and there’s a shortage of younger surveyors, which makes organizations like GKIS so important! Surveying is more than just measuring land – it’s about building the future. There are so many exciting opportunities in this field, from creating models to helping design infrastructure like roads, bridges and even roller coasters!
4. What do you do? TopoDOT creates software that makes surveyors’ lives easier. We help surveyors turn 3D point cloud data (basically a detailed digital version of the real world) into useful models and maps. Whether it’s extracting breaklines or managing large datasets in TopoShare, our software helps surveyors work faster and smarter. We’re all about helping people get the most value out of their projects!
5. How long have you been in the survey industry? TopoDOT has been empowering surveyors for over a decade – and we’re just getting started! Our awesome community grows every year, and we’re so thankful that they choose TopoDOT for their point cloud processing needs.
6. How did you end up getting into the geospatial industry? TopoDOT grew out of a desire to solve real-world problems for surveyors. We saw how much potential there was in 3D data and decided to build tools that help surveyors turn that data into powerful insights and useful information!
7. State a funny fact about you… TopoDOT holds the world’s only conference dedicated to digital twin production from point cloud data: the TopoDOT Users Conference! It’s in Orlando, FL, home to some of the best theme parks in the world. After a week of learning and networking, it’s not unusual for attendees to reward themselves with a weekend full of roller coaster rides and theme park snacks!
8. Favorite piece of kit and why? Our favorite tool isn’t a gadget – it’s TopoShare! It allows surveyors to store, share, and visualize massive datasets in the cloud, so teams can collaborate from anywhere. Plus, point clouds overlaid on maps look really cool!
9. Favourite survey technique and why? LiDAR point cloud processing with TopoDOT – it’s like building a 3D puzzle of the real world! Surveyors can capture everything from buildings, roadways, railroads, bridges and more using super fast scanners, then TopoDOT helps them turn that data into something useful. It’s part science, part art, and totally satisfying.
10. Your website
11. How did you choose the character and what does he/she/it represent? Our character is Robyn! Robyn helps keep Team TopoDOT organized and on mission. She represents the spirit of TopoDOT – smart, resourceful, and always ready to help.

Photogrammetry Focus

Photogrammetry is revolutionizing industries by enabling precise 3D modeling from images. Whether it’s reconstructing crime scenes, preserving historical architecture, enhancing building inspections, or even creating hyper-realistic gaming environments, this technology continues to push boundaries.

In this blog, we explore the many facets of photogrammetry, featuring expert insights, real-world applications, and cutting-edge advancements. From forensic crash scene analysis to drone-based surveys and game development, we’ve gathered some of the most informative resources to help you dive deeper into this fascinating field.

Join us as we uncover the power of photogrammetry—one scan at a time!

 

Introduction

We have come across this fabulous blog which explains in detail what a photogrammetric survey is, plus the different capturing and processing methods that can be used: https://biblus.accasoftware.com/en/photogrammetric-survey-what-it-is-and-how-to-get-it-in-5-simple-steps/

 

Crash Scene

When researching some cool ideas for the upcoming Summer Poster, forensics was definitely one of the key players!

In order to appeal to the masses and not make it too crime orientated, we have decided to do a small crash scene investigation. We’ve located a few blogs that talk more in depth about the different technologies used on these crime scenes

1- PIX4D have their own data capture and data processing offering an all-in-one solution. Here they talk through a crash scene scenario where they’ve put their technology to the test: https://www.pix4d.com/blog/crash-scene-analysis-pix4d-forensic/

2-  Hexagon have explained how they create a forensic digital twin, taking you through the process and equipment used, as well as some cool annotations: https://blog.hexagongeosystems.com/3d-solutions-for-crash-scenes-and-collision-documentation/

 

Surveying a Building using Photogrammetry

Architectural photogrammetry is very popular to assess heritage and old buildings around us. Here this blog takes us through the angles, camera settings and more of how to achieve the best results: https://billboyheritagesurvey.wordpress.com/2021/08/10/shooting-for-architectural-photogrammetry/

If you’ve ever bought a house you will most likely have had a roof inspection. This takes it to the next level by using a drone to complete the survey. These surveys provide the client with detailed insights that were previously unattainable without significant time and financial investment! Read more about this here: https://www.thefuture3d.com/blog-0/2024/2/2/1-the-power-of-drone-photogrammetry-for-building-inspection

 

Gaming

One of the coolest applications of photogrammetry is in the gaming industry, which Artec 3D explain so well in this blog: https://www.artec3d.com/learning-center/photogrammetry-for-games

Photogrammetry can be used to create characters, vehicles and textures in gaming and TV! Something that might surprise a lot of people… The future is definitely bright, as Bolton University explain: https://www.bolton.ac.uk/blogs/the-future-of-games-art-production-photogrammetry-in-games

 

Love photogrammetry?

Does your company want to help highlight this career route to the next generation?

Please read more about our Photogrammetry project which desperately need help to produce…

Ambassador Spotlight ‘Katrina Olsen’

Introducing Brand Ambassador Katrina Olsen, covering California, USA:

Where did you study? California State University of Fresno with a BS in Surveying Engineering in 1991 (currently this degree is Geomatics Engineering).

What are the requirements to be a surveyor in your area? In the State of California you need 6 years experience and to pass a surveyor in training exam, Federal Exam (USA), and State Specific Exam. The six years can be all on the job experience or a 4 year degree at an accredited university with 2 additional years of experience.

How did you get into surveying? I was thinking I wanted to be an architect and my mother suggested I take a surveying class my second semester at college, and I thought, sure why not.  During my first summer I worked as an intern on a surveying crew and instantly knew this was my calling!  I finished my schooling, went to work and got licensed.  I’ve always been happy with my career decision and wouldn’t pick a different path if I could do it all over again.

How long have you been in the industry? 31 years

Are you part of any associations or organisations you would like us to mention? I am a member of NSPS (National Society of Professional Surveyors), CLSA (California Land Surveyors Association), and have been active and an officer of our local San Joaquin Valley Chapter of CLSA for years.  I’ve helped dozens of kids earn their Surveying Merit Badge through Boy Scouts.

Why do you want to be a GKiS Brand Ambassador? I think it is important to expose kids (and all of society) to what we do.  I had no idea this was a career path and I don’t want others to miss  this amazing opportunity. There is diverse opportunities (office/field) and we use our brains and out brawn.   We need more surveyors to ensure quality of infrastructure and property rights around the globe. I think it is very important, in a male dominated field, to see women performing and succeeding in this profession.  I own my own business and would love to be an example for others.

Why is it important for kids to know about surveying and the wider geospatial industry?. Knowing the history and how things relate to each other are key – this is what surveying is about. It goes way beyond just measuring.

What are you going to do as an ambassador for GKiS?  I’m hoping to do outreach at local schools and public events to showcase our amazing profession.

What are your hobbies? I enjoy working…LOL, no seriously it is so rewarding and fun (new tech and old history)..  I also enjoy hiking, skiing, genealogy and scrapbooking.

If you/your company had a GKiS character, what would it be? A female land surveyor with pig tails finding old surveying markers like they were buried treasure out in the woods.

What resource would you like to see next from GKiS? What is available is amazing.  I’ll speak up when I see a need.

Anything else you want to add that you think our audience (surveyors, teachers, parents) would be interested in?  This profession offers WAY more than you can imagine…  new tech (GSP, Lidar & drones), programming and computers (GIS), construction, boundary and law, small local & large global projects, private and public job opportunities, problem solving, historical records,  rural and urban… the list goes on and on.

 

Character Spotlight ‘Yazel Peebles & Associates’

Introducing our latest Brand Sponsor as seen on the ‘Spring’ poster, it’s Desiree Hurst from Yazel Peebles & Associates:

1.Company Name – Yazel Peebles & Associates, LLC

2.   Location – Bedford, Texas USA

3.   Why is it important for your company to help Get Kids into Survey? We try to give back to our surveying community in various ways and know the importance of introducing the next generation to surveying.

4.   What do you do? I’m a Registered Professional Land Surveyor in Texas at a small land surveying company.  I primarily work in residential and commercial land development.

5.   How long have you been in the survey industry? I started in the industry almost 20 years ago

6.   How did you end up getting into the geospatial industry?  I fell into the profession.  After college I was working at a job I didn’t enjoy much when a land surveyor my sister worked with was looking to hire a survey technician with no experience but a strong math background and detailed oriented.  I was finally qualified for a job right out of college, I was hired, and the rest is history.  I enjoyed what I was doing so much I progressed to getting an additional degree and my professional license.

7.   State a funny fact about you… Surveying has brought out the inner detective in me.  I really enjoy digging into the land records even when it has nothing to do with a site I’m working on.

8.   Favourite piece of kit and why?  The historical equipment.  It is amazing the tools that were used prior to all of the technology we use currently and how accurate the surveys are still to this day.

9.   Favourite Survey technique and why? Researching and the history of surveying.  I really enjoying digging through historical records in order to follow the surveyors before me on the property I am surveying.

10.  Your website

11.  How did you choose the character and what does he/she/it represent? Mean to you? What’s his/her name? I recently volunteered to survey my kids’ school for a security fence and had both of my older children participate from the office to the field.  They learned more about what I do, and the tools surveyors use.  My oldest daughter, Cecilia, caught onto the metal detector quickly and located so many corners.  My son, James, loves drones and always wants to see what we have in the office.  My youngest, Lillian, spent the first 10 months of her life in my office and holds a very special place as the “office baby”.   I wanted to honor my children who have shown an interest in surveying with GKiS characters.

Character Spotlight Riegl

Introducing Riegl’s Roxy the Fox, let’s learn some more about her:

1. Company Name – RIEGL

2.   Location 

We are global! RIEGL has its main Fox Den (Headquarters) in Austria, and also has offices around the globe with its North American location in Winter Garden, FL. But more importantly, our clients, (who usually become friends) are using our RIEGL scanners on every continent, and in almost every country in the whole world.  Now we just need to put one on the moon!

3.   Why is it important for your company to help Get Kids into Survey? 

We love kids! Surveying is like being an explorer with cool gadgets, discovering new things every day. It’s a fun way to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). When kids get into surveying, they can help build better cities, protect nature, and create amazing maps.

It’s amazing to see what girls can do and this is why it’s important for girls to try surveying too. So, let’s inspire girls to become surveyors and show them that everyone can join this exciting adventure!

4.   What do you do? 

We make cool tools that help people like engineers, scientists, animators, and builders turn their ideas into 3D shapes. A long time ago, we started using something called LiDAR, which is a special kind of light that people (and even foxes) can’t see that creates a Digital Twin. This is like a magic copy of something, but it’s on a computer, TV, or movie screen instead of being real.

5.   How long have you been in the survey industry? 

RIEGL started in 1978. That’s 47 years of awesome adventures! Our founder, Dr. Riegl, started the company with a small team, and now we supply super cool surveying equipment to people all over the world. From jungles to glaciers, and deserts to oceans, RIEGL has been exploring and mapping the world for nearly five decades! Let’s keep the adventure going!

7.   Funny Fact – 

I once tried to use a laser scanner to find my lost snacks, but instead, I ended up creating a 3D map of the entire forest! Now, I never lose my snacks because I know exactly where everything is.

8.   Favourite piece of kit and why? 

I like LOCATE THE TECH!  I think it’s like a treasure hunt.

9.   Favourite Survey technique and why?

I love using terrestrial laser scanners! They’re like the superheroes of surveying, and you can take them anywhere. The scanner and camera fit into one small suitcase with wheels. Just grab the suitcase and a tripod, and off we go on our next adventure!

With this cool equipment, we can explore really remote places easily. We’ll get amazing 3D maps (Digital Twins!) in no time. Ready to explore? Let’s go!

10.  Your website

11.  How did you choose the character and what does he/she/it represent? Mean to you? What’s his/her name?

Roxy the Fox is important for RIEGL because she makes learning about surveying fun and engaging for girls! By using a friendly and adventurous character like Roxy, RIEGL can connect with young audiences and spark their interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Roxy helps break down complex concepts into simple, exciting stories and activities that kids can easily understand and enjoy. Overall, Roxy the Fox plays a key role in making surveying accessible and exciting for girls, helping to build a bright future for the industry!

Ambassador Spotlight ‘James R Meier’

Welcoming latest Brand Ambassador James R Meier from Washington, USA:

How did you get into surveying? Geology major in College, then on to land surveying.

What are your plans as a Brand Ambassador? I am looking to get the local kids interested in Land Surveying

Tell us a bit about what you do: I am an owner of a local Land Surveying office in Maple Valley, WA

If you’d like to get in contact with James, please contact hello@getkidsintosurvey.com and we will get you in contact via email.