Making the Most of Conferences: Insights from a Fellow Professional
My GIS Journey and the Role of Conferences
My introduction to GIS was an accident. I was a sophomore at Kentucky State University when I volunteered at a fair and met a professor demonstrating a drone. He spoke of an Introduction to GIS class he was teaching, and although I was curious, I signed up. Within weeks, I was addicted. That class led me to pursue a master’s in environmental studies with a concentration in GIS and remote sensing.
Early in my career, I worked as a CAD Technician at Qk4, where I utilized collected land survey data for transportation and infrastructure projects. Later, I transitioned to NV5 Geospatial, where I worked with aerial photogrammetry and LiDAR data analysis. As a GIS Analyst at the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, I develop custom scripts, provide GIS support, and facilitate data-driven decision-making within my department. While performing these roles, conferences have played an important role in sharpening my technical competencies, enhancing my network, and keeping me updated with the profession.
Overcoming Challenges as a Young Professional
Entering the GIS profession can be intimidating—especially at conferences where veteran professionals seem to have a vast reservoir of experience. I remember my first major conference, the Applied Geography Conference. I was eager and apprehensive, unsure how to approach people or utilize the sessions best. But I quickly learned three valuable lessons:
- You don't have to know it all. The subject matter is wide-ranging, and no one becomes an expert overnight.
- Networking is not as scary as it seems. The majority of attendees are eager to share tips and experiences.
- Planning is essential. Being intentional about which sessions to go to and whom to meet does make a difference.
One of the misconceptions new professionals often have is that they need to be highly skilled in all areas of GIS. I made this mistake during the early phase of my career, not seeking a mentor when I should have. Looking back, I realize that mentorship can provide invaluable advice and support, help you understand the nuances of the GIS profession, and accelerate your professional growth. It's a crucial aspect of your journey that should not be overlooked.
Maximizing Your Conference Experience
If I were to recommend one thing for young professionals who are going to their first GIS conference, it would be to prepare:
- Before the conference, review the agenda, choose sessions that interest you, and familiarize yourself with the keynote speakers. Set simple goals, such as meeting three new people, listening to a particular workshop, or asking questions in a session.
- At the event, Don't be afraid to introduce yourself. "Hello, my name is [your name], and I am [your occupation]." This is typically enough to establish an icebreaker conversation. Take notes, ask questions, and join the social buzz by following the event hashtag or connecting with the speakers on LinkedIn.
- After the conference: Follow up on new contacts, personalize your LinkedIn invites, review your notes, and participate in follow-up webinars or discussion groups. Ongoing involvement after the event solidifies new knowledge and connections.
Staying Engaged in the GIS Community
Conferences are just one avenue to stay active as a GIS professional. Joining a GIS organization, such as the Kentucky Association of Mapping Professionals (KAMP) or Geospatial Professional Network (GPN), can further your knowledge and expand your network. Participating in the GPN's Mentoring Network as a mentor or mentee can also offer rewarding experiences. It's about staying connected and being part of a larger community that shares your passion and interests.
Final Thoughts
Conferences are not events—they're gateways to professional growth as a GIS professional. The individuals you meet, the information you learn, and the confidence you build can all impact your career in ways you can't envision. Whether you're just starting or nearing the end of your GIS career, attending conferences, networking, and mentorship can open doors to opportunities you don't even know exist.
Prepare a plan for the next GIS conference, be open to new networking opportunities, and make the most of it. A casual conversation could reveal doors to opportunities you had never conceived of.
