As I reflect on everything I’m thankful for this season, I can't help but be thankful for the Esri Young Professionals Network (YPN). Last month, I attended my very first YPN event and the experience left me feeling inspired, supported, and even more excited about my career. As a new member of YPN, the YPN DC Fall Chapter Meetup at the Washington, D.C. Regional Office was exactly the jumpstart I needed to get more involved in the community.
My Experience at the YPN DC Fall Meetup
On 28 October, I joined the YPN DC Chapter for a networking event—though I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I recently started a new role with Esri as a Solution Engineer and couldn’t be happier with where I am, so I wasn’t attending with the hopes of finding a job. And with only a few years of professional experience under me, I wondered what I could meaningfully contribute to those who were in the job market or looking for advice. Was it really worth the 45-minute drive after a long Tuesday?
The answer: yes, it absolutely was.
Everyone—attendees, guest speakers, and Esri employees—were incredibly welcoming. And as we got talking, I realized I wasn’t alone in many of my internal thoughts and feelings:
• Did I choose the right path within the GIS industry?
• Am I technical enough to be working at a leading GIS company?
• Would people further in the careers really want to hear what I had to say?
The reassurance came naturally through shared experiences, especially in the small group conversations we had with the four guest speakers:
Sid Pandey – Deloitte & Geospatial Professional Network Board Member
Abigail Pendry – National Audubon Society
Ariel Walcutt – Airbus Geospatial and Secure Connectivity Solutions
Jackie Burnett – Esri Professional Services
Each speaker represented a different sector and had their own unique path to finding GIS. Hearing their stories—how they found GIS, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the missions they support—were incredibly motivating. What struck me most wasn’t just their technical expertise; it was their shared passion and sense of purpose. Whether working in conservation, defense, or local government support, their commitment to meaningful work was the common thread that fueled their growth.
Abigail spoke about the long nights spent teaching herself to code to support conservation efforts. Sid shared how he took on leadership responsibilities during pivotal moments for his team. These stories were powerful reminders that passion often precedes confidence and that growth happens when we’re willing to lean into discomfort. It’s a lesson I will be carrying with me as I continue developing in my own career.
Leaving Inspired
The event wrapped up with project showcases from Esri employees and more time to connect. I was able to catch up with familiar faces and meet new ones, and those conversations left me genuinely energized. I walked away feeling more confident in navigating through the early stages of my career, grateful to be part of this community, and excited to show up the next day ready to contribute even more.
If you’ve ever considered attending a YPN event, I can’t recommend it enough. Join your local YPN chapter to stay updated on future meetups—they’re a great opportunity to learn, connect, and push yourself just a little outside your comfort zone no matter where you are in your career.
And if you want to chat more about the experience or have questions about YPN, feel free to reach out or connect with me on LinkedIn. I’d love to continue the conversation.
Happy Thanksgiving YPN! 🍂
