Minutes of the 59th Quarterly Salt Lake GIS Users Group (SLUG) meeting, held on November 21st, 2024 from 10:30 am to 1:00 at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) Taylorsville Campus (4600 S Redwood Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84123). There were about 80 people in attendance today.
Business
Rachel Manko, SLUG Board
Welcome to SLUG’s 59th meeting and also our special GIS Day meeting! We would like to thank Adam Dastrup and SLCC for hosting this meeting and for providing lunch. And we would like to thank UGIC for providing cakes to celebrate GIS Day!
Adam Dastrup, Salt Lake Community College Professor
SLCC offers a wide range of courses, including specialized UAS (drone) classes and GIS certification programs within the Geography Department. To learn more about these exciting opportunities, click here. They also are constantly seeking experienced professionals eager to share their knowledge through mentoring and guest lecturing in any of our courses. If you are interested, reach out to Adam.
Presentations
Michael Cherry, Horrocks, AI in GIS: Embracing the Future - Why AI Won’t Replace You, But People Leveraging AI Could
Michael talked about how AI is designed to enhance industries, not replace humans, by streamlining tasks and improving efficiency. It includes Narrow AI (such as satellite image classification, traffic prediction, and computer vision for pavement analysis), as well as theoretical concepts like General AI (e.g., JARVIS) and Strong AI (e.g., Ultron). Narrow AI focuses on tasks like natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, and expert systems. AI augments human intelligence, especially in fields like GIS, where tools like ChatGPT improve workflows by providing structured solutions, simplifying complex concepts, and saving time. AI also revolutionizes infrastructure management, Horrocks is using machine learning and LiDAR technology to deliver more affordable, precise, and actionable pavement condition data.
Izabela Miller, Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District, From GIS Technician to GIS Leader - Career Growth & Professional Development
Izabela talked about how the MSD (Municipal Services District) in Salt Lake County, Utah, serves approximately 85,000 residents by providing services such as code enforcement, planning, business licensing, and building inspections across seven jurisdictions. The agency is relatively new but plays a crucial role in local governance. Her journey began as a GIS technician, gradually growing and learning through experiences, tools, and skills. The author became a leader in shaping the GIS vision for the organization, taking steps like creating a vision, running an influence campaign, filling gaps, and looking for new opportunities. Leadership posed challenges and rewards. One key challenge was stepping away from hands-on GIS work to focus on delegating, while a rewarding aspect was watching the team grow and gain confidence. The leadership journey influenced the author's approach, emphasizing the importance of being open-minded, approachable, and recognizing the dark side of leadership—ego. Izabela reflects on the need to control ego and put the organization’s vision above personal pride or politics. The parting advice is to focus on the collective success, as illustrated by Harry Truman’s quote: "It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit."
Panel Discussion
We hosted a panel discussion featuring six industry professionals, giving students the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights on how to break into the GIS field and secure job opportunities. The panel members were:
Michael Cherry from Horrocks Engineering
Izabela Miller from Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District and Leadership Coach
Buck Ehler from Utah DWR
James Burton from Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District
Christina McCullock from Gateway Mapping
Lindsy Hales Bentley from Central Utah Water Conservancy District
A wide range of insightful questions were asked, and the answers provided proved valuable not only to students but also to professionals:
How would you explain becoming a part of SLUG or UGIC has been beneficial for you?
Christina emphasized the importance of networking to find work, while Buck highlighted the value of collaborating with others to solve problems and learn from their experiences. Izabela noted the opportunity to contribute fresh ideas, benefit from a strong network and share knowledge through presentations.
Number one piece of advice for requesting a budget from your organization or client?
Izabela advised showcasing the value of GIS, software, and equipment before requesting funding, and engaging with those in your organization who can offer support. Buck emphasized demonstrating value to leadership and being honest about limitations. James suggested quantifying value by comparing deliverables, costs, and alternatives. Christina recommended finding a champion who understands client needs and can communicate the benefits effectively. Lindsy encouraged focusing on the goals you want to achieve.
What potential impacts could proposed funding cuts like NEPA have for the professional industry and job opportunities?
Buck highlighted the growing job market with opportunities less affected by government changes, ideal for building skills. Christina pointed out that while students often focus on government jobs, there are many private sector opportunities to explore. Lindsy emphasized that while jobs are evolving, the challenges will remain and still need addressing. Izabela encouraged staying open to new opportunities and adapting to changes, as you never know when a pivot may be necessary.
When we think of AI, people normally think of ChatGBT. When you’re not allowed to use it, what resources could you use instead?
Michael discussed the challenges of security concerns with AI, noting that companies are developing AI versions with built-in firewalls, and emphasized the importance of understanding policies before using AI. Adam mentioned that Esri now offers AI-integrated options for GIS services. James recommended using tools like Copilot, which keeps information contained within your account, and advised against sharing proprietary data with AI tools like ChatGPT, while still leveraging AI for general information.
Where is the best place to network for GIS employment opportunities?
Buck recommended using SLUG, UGIC email lists, and state job boards for job opportunities. Izabela suggested building a LinkedIn profile, being open to work, and connecting with others in the GIS field. Christina emphasized the importance of face-to-face networking, recommending UGIC for in-person connections and student scholarships. Michael encouraged posting LinkedIn updates, including presentations, to complement face-to-face interactions.
What opportunities exist within GIS for career advancement in your organizations?
Michael shared that his company has grown from 3-4 people to 19-20 in recent years. Izabela mentioned her team grew from 2 to 5 and encouraged creating opportunities, such as starting a drone program. Buck highlighted the demand for data science skills and the importance of strong internal connections to drive expansion. James suggested that opportunities might exist within your current role, as he added GIS tasks at Snowbird. Christina advised seeking internships before finishing school, and Lindsy emphasized the value of internship programs to help transition into the workforce.
If you were able to call yourself an undergrad, what advice would you give yourself in terms of what to pay attention to and classes to take?
Lindsy advised getting an internship and taking programming classes. Christina recommended database management courses. James emphasized maintaining relationships and staying connected. Buck encouraged enjoying your work, being curious, and not stressing over the path to success. Izabela suggested learning from good professors, using their networks, and staying proactive in your learning. Michael advised taking advantage of flexibility and moving quickly, as there are many opportunities available.
How do you measure and acknowledge successes?
Michael values the people he meets and the connections he makes. Izabela focuses on the happiness of her team. Buck finds satisfaction in seeing teammates succeed through his mentorship. James enjoys making progress, learning, and avoiding stagnation. Christina takes pride in helping clients create useful solutions that simplify their work. Lindsy values helping others, making jobs easier, and learning from both successes and failures.
If you had a student who just graduated in GIS, applying for a job when looking for someone with more qualifications, what could make them stand out?
Lindsy emphasized the importance of professional skills, online experience, database management, soft programming skills, and a curious, humble, and brave attitude. Christina stressed reliability, punctuality, meeting deadlines, and having a positive attitude. James recommended building a strong portfolio and LinkedIn profile. Buck highlighted that any work experience, even outside of GIS, is valuable. Izabela advised applying for jobs even if you feel underqualified, being a go-getter, and willing to learn. Michael encouraged being proactive and taking risks.
Would you expect anything in particular in a portfolio?
James recommended using StoryMap, while Buck suggested creating websites. Christina emphasized tailoring your work to be relevant to the job you're applying for. Lindsy advised having a variety of work, depending on the job you're targeting.
What’s your take on DJI and what do you use instead if you don’t have one?
James mentioned using Autel at MSD, noting it's still a great option despite the potential ban, and suggested starting with DJI drones before justifying a purchase of an American-made drone. Buck advised buying a drone now before they are potentially banned.
What would you expect from our GIS program?
Buck highlighted the importance of Part 107 certification, understanding how AGOL and Pro work together, data management skills, and being open to using non-Esri tools. Michael emphasized the value of technical writing, such as grant writing. Izabela stressed the importance of interpersonal skills, communication, and teamwork.
Our next meeting will be sometime in February, keep an eye out for more information on that.
Thank you to our presenters and for joining us in person. If you have any ideas for a presentation or any other matter, please contact a SLUG board member. We welcome short or long presentations on any projects that you might be working on that might benefit others. If you have any contacts that would be willing to ‘sponsor’ a lunch by providing food/drinks in exchange for their advertising at the meeting, contact a SLUG Board member.
We appreciate your interest and support!
Check out our website for updates, contact info, or to sign up for our newsletter to get job announcements and SLUG meeting announcement emails.