My Experience as a Student Assistant at Esri FedGIS 2025
Exploring the Future of GIS: My Experience as a FedGIS 2025 Student Assistant
Hello my name is Philip Stavrev, and I had the privilege of serving as a Student Assistant at the 2025 Esri Federal GIS Conference (FedGIS).
This blog post reflects on my experience at FedGIS 2025, which not only deepened my understanding of GIS but also reinforced my enthusiasm for harnessing geospatial technology to drive meaningful change.
My Path to GIS and Advanced Spatial Analysis
Unlike many who discover GIS through traditional geography or environmental science, my background is rooted in computer science, hardware, mathematics, and competitive programming. I was searching for a field that blended my problem-solving mindset with practical, real-world applications. My introduction to GIS came when I engaged with leading industry professionals who opened my eyes to the vast capabilities of geospatial technology. Learning about how GIS plays a role in fields like disaster response, urban planning, and satellite data processing was a pivotal moment in my career aspirations.
Currently, I am an undergraduate student at George Mason University pursuing a degree in Computer Science, while simultaneously working toward my accelerated master’s degree with a concentration in machine learning. Research I have participated in at my university explores LIDAR mapping and SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) in complex, dynamic environments. The drive to expand my technical expertise and industry connections led me to apply for the Esri Student Assistant Program—an opportunity that exceeded all my expectations and provided a firsthand look at how cutting-edge GIS solutions are shaping the world.
Behind the Scenes at FedGIS 2025
Being selected as a Student Assistant at FedGIS was an incredible honor. From the moment I arrived in Washington, D.C., I knew this experience would be transformative. My role allowed me to take part in the behind-the-scenes operations of a major GIS conference while also engaging directly with industry experts and exploring groundbreaking advancements in geospatial technology.
Conference Operations and Event Support
As part of my responsibilities, I assisted with various logistical aspects of the conference, including working at the registration booth and the Esri Merchandise Store. This experience gave me a unique perspective on the inner workings of a large-scale industry event while providing valuable opportunities to engage with GIS professionals from diverse sectors. Every conversation offered new insights into the many ways GIS is applied across different industries, broadening my understanding of its global impact.
Attending Cutting-Edge GIS Sessions
One of the most exciting aspects of being a Student Assistant was the ability to attend technical sessions on topics aligned with my academic interests. I explored sessions on machine learning in GIS, remote sensing applications, and advanced spatial analysis. Additionally, I attended discussions on emerging trends such as GeoAI, real-time geospatial analytics, and 3D mapping. These sessions provided a deeper understanding of how these technologies are revolutionizing GIS and inspired ideas for my own research.
Building Connections with GIS Leaders and Peers
A key highlight of FedGIS was the opportunity to connect with professionals at the forefront of GIS innovation. I had the chance to meet experts such as Christopher Oxendine, Sheridan Moore, and other leading figures in the GIS community. Their insights into industry trends, career growth, and the future of GIS were invaluable. Additionally, networking with fellow Student Assistants from across the country fostered meaningful professional relationships that I know will continue beyond this conference.
Social Events and Industry Networking
Beyond the technical sessions, I participated in several networking events, including the Esri Young Professionals Network (YPN) social and a special reception at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and the Smithsonian Museum. These events provided a relaxed environment to engage with professionals, exchange ideas, and gain career insights from industry veterans—all of which made the experience even more enriching.
Key Lessons and Takeaways
FedGIS was not just about learning new technical skills—it also reinforced important career lessons:
- The power of networking. The connections I made led to invaluable career advice, research collaborations, and new professional opportunities.
- GIS is an ever-evolving field. Staying updated with new tools, methodologies, and advancements is crucial for staying ahead in the industry.
- Confidence in my work. Discussing my research with industry professionals validated its importance and helped me refine my approach.
Advice for Future Student Assistants
If you’re thinking about applying for the Esri Student Assistant Program or attending a GIS conference, here are my top recommendations:
- Don’t hesitate to apply. Even if you think you might not get selected, go for it your passion for GIS matters more than you realize.
- Be proactive and engaged. Ask questions, take notes, and introduce yourself to speakers—you never know what opportunities may arise.
- Expand your professional network. Connect with professionals and fellow attendees, exchange contact information, and follow up after the conference.
- Step outside your comfort zone. Attend sessions on unfamiliar topics—you may discover new applications of GIS that align with your interests.
- Document your experience. Share your takeaways on LinkedIn or another platform to showcase your involvement and insights—it helps build your presence in the GIS community.
Final Thoughts
Serving as a Student Assistant at FedGIS 2025 was an unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly shape my future in GIS. The knowledge, skills, and professional relationships I gained from this conference have inspired me to continue exploring how geospatial technology can drive innovation and change.
For any students passionate about GIS, I strongly encourage you to seek out opportunities like this—you never know how one conference, one conversation, or one new perspective might shape your future.
Acknowledgments
I as well just want to give a heartfelt thank you to Joe and Xochitl for their incredible support throughout the conference. Their guidance made the Student Assistant experience even more meaningful, and I deeply appreciate their efforts in making FedGIS 2025 a truly memorable event for all of us.
