Over 200 high school and college students gathered at Troy University on March 12 for the seventh annual Geo Day, diving into the geospatial industry. This year was special; all workshop presenters were alumni from TROY. They brought valuable insights back to their roots.
Dr. Steve Ramroop, the director of the Surveying and Geomatics Sciences program, expressed pride in witnessing alumni apply what they learned to make a difference in their communities. “Seeing them thrive is incredibly rewarding,” he said. “Our graduates are great representatives of the program.”
The day kicked off with an opening session, followed by workshops covering mapping technologies, modern surveying methods, and unmanned aerial systems. Organizations like the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) and Dewberry Engineering were present, offering real-world perspectives.
Students participated in hands-on activities. They explored a sandbox that showcased how elevation changes are mapped, peeked through total stations that measure distances, and interacted with mapping technologies. ALDOT even showcased drones, sparking excitement among participants.
Ramroop noted, “These activities help students grasp the data collection process and understand the importance of careers in the geospatial industry, especially in land surveying.” Understanding these tools is vital for the future, given the growing demand for geospatial professionals; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 20% growth in surveyor jobs over the next decade.
Justin Hall, a TROY graduate and current junior project manager at PLS Group, recalled how Geo Day influenced his career choice. “It helped me clarify my career path, and I’m grateful for that,” he shared. Similarly, Collin Swanner, a freshman at Brantley High School, found his interest in geomatics piqued. “I loved learning about how technology scans landscapes. It opened my eyes to new possibilities in drones and mapping,” he said.
The Department of Geospatial Informatics at TROY offers a range of programs, including a major in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a minor in geography, and an Unmanned Aerial Systems minor. Businesses frequently reach out to the department for qualified interns and graduates to join their teams, highlighting the program’s strength and relevance in today’s job market.
For students interested in emerging technologies and dynamic career paths, Geo Day is more than just an event—it’s a gateway to new opportunities. The excitement and interest generated here could shape the next generation of geospatial professionals.
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