FedGIS 2025: A Key Milestone in Shaping my GIS Career as an Undergraduate Student
Welcome! My name is Olivia Koch, I’m an upcoming undergraduate at the University of Rhode Island majoring in Environmental Science and Management, and I want to share why I think it is fundamental to attend one of Esri’s GIS conferences as an aspiring GIS professional.
Esri GIS conferences such as the Esri User Conference, Esri Federal GIS Conference, and Esri Develop & Technology Summit are the biggest geospatial events for professionals in their field to come together to connect, learn, and share about the new developments in the geospatial world.
Figure 1. First Day of the FedGIS Conference, 2025
I recently had the fortunate opportunity of attending Esri’s Federal GIS Conference from February 24th to 26th in Washington, D.C. As a student experiencing an event like this for the first time, I can confidently say that this conference jump-started my involvement in the GIS community. I left the conference with immense appreciation and respect for the current GIS experts, and excited to continue expanding my knowledge, network, and working towards becoming an expert in my field.
I’m going to share my experience volunteering at the 2025 Federal GIS Conference representing Esri as a Student Assistant, my major takeaways, the best advice I learned, and steps you can take after reading this blog to become more involved in the GIS community!
My Experience at FedGIS
I applied to Esri's Student Assistantship Program, where I volunteered to support conference operations while also being able to attend technical sessions, keynote speakers, and networking events. As a student assistant, I helped with registration, merchandise distribution and maintained a positive attitude to foster a collaborative atmosphere.
I also took full advantage of the conference offerings, attending sessions on indoor mapping, geoprocessing tips, Python for ArcGIS, and updates on Esri’s Geo Apps, AI integration, and field operations. These sessions provided new techniques, application updates, and practical tips for ArcGIS projects.
Figure 2. Working at the Esri Swag Station
One of the most valuable aspects was the Expo Hall, which featured various federal sectors, including defense, transportation, infrastructure, science, and Esri services. I had the opportunity to speak with professionals about their work with GIS and how their previous experiences and education lead them to success.
As an upcoming graduate, I found that an environment such as this one was extremely important for determining how I fit into the GIS world, what fields I can see myself working in, getting advice and guidance, and being able to hear their testimonials about why they enjoy the work they do.
Figure 3. Expo Hall
Figure 4. Expo Hall
Additionally, I want to highlight how important the Esri Young Professionals Network (YPN) is. They provided guidance, from resume revisions to job application tips, to helping me gain insight into how to stand out in the GIS field.
They hosted a YPN Social where over 300 students and GIS professionals gathered to network with one another and make meaningful connections. Networking with other students, especially those I worked with as student assistants, was also inspiring. It was refreshing to connect with peers passionate about GIS and to hear about the current projects they are working on.
Figure 5. Networking Social at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Major Takeaways
- Get involved. I know it can be intimidating, but it’s one of the best decisions you can make. Join campus groups or start your own if there isn’t one! Sharing the impact of geospatial data and how ArcGIS can identify gaps and solve problems in current datasets is a great way to highlight its importance.
- Grow your LinkedIn profile while in school. Connect with professionals, peers, and others in fields you're interested in through LinkedIn. LinkedIn helps you learn, stay updated on industry trends, and showcase your work and career potential. Engage by commenting on posts, sharing interesting content, posting your accomplishments, and keeping your profile current.
- Join Esri’s Young Professionals Network (YPN). Become a member of Esri YPN and become a YPN Ambassador, join a regional chapter, and browse through their blog on Esri Community. Through Esri YPN, I’ve published my first blog post, gained tips on standing out as a young GIS professional, learned how to be a resource for others, and connected with professionals in my desired field.
Figure 6. Plenary Session
What you can do right now:
- Create a GIS portfolio of your work using ArcGIS StoryMaps, ArcGIS Hub or ArcGIS Experience Builder. Stand out to others by showcasing your education, skills, and projects, while highlighting your proficiency in ArcGIS by creating your own GIS portfolio. The YPN website offers examples for inspiration.
- Apply to be a student assistant at an upcoming Esri conference. There are four Esri conferences students can apply for. This blog post outlines which conferences and the application deadlines.
- Update your LinkedIn. Even as a student, make sure you have a LinkedIn profile and keep it up to date. This is the ideal platform to make new connections, add skills, and set job alerts for your target roles.
- Look into certifications available during your undergraduate degree. If your school does not have a GIS major, consider enrolling in a GIS certificate program to enhance your knowledge.
Figure 7. Student Assistant Group Photo
I hope you enjoyed reading about my experience at FedGIS 2025 and found some of these resources helpful! You can email me with any questions or comments at kocholivia571@gmail.com and make sure to connect with me on LinkedIn!