Unlocking the Power of Precision: The Impact of 1-Inch GSD Imagery on GIS

In the realm of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), precision is paramount. The ability to accurately map, analyze, and manage geographic data is what separates good decision-making from great decision-making. As the demand for high-quality geospatial data continues to rise, GIS professionals are turning to advanced technologies to meet these needs. One such innovation is 1-inch Ground Sample Distance (GSD) aerial imagery, a game-changer that offers unprecedented clarity and detail.

Why 1-Inch GSD Matters for GIS

At its core, 1-inch GSD imagery means that each pixel in an image represents a 1-inch square on the ground. This ultra-high resolution translates into a ninefold increase in data density compared to 3-inch GSD imagery. For GIS professionals, this level of detail unlocks new possibilities in data analysis, model accuracy, and project planning.

Enhanced Data Accuracy and AI Integration

The leap in data density with 1-inch GSD imagery is not just a matter of visual clarity; it’s about the integrity and precision of the data that GIS professionals rely on. More detailed imagery provides a richer dataset, which is crucial for developing and refining AI models. These models, trained on high-resolution data, deliver more accurate predictions and analyses, whether for urban planning, environmental monitoring, or disaster response.

For instance, in disaster recovery scenarios, the ability to discern fine details—such as the condition of individual structures or the exact boundaries of flood zones—can dramatically improve response strategies. A GIS coordinator in Iowa, after receiving post-disaster imagery captured at 1-inch GSD, remarked, “The quality of 1-inch is super helpful. I'm usually indifferent to resolution, but this is a time when seeing all the details is very beneficial.”

Streamlining GIS Workflows with High-Resolution Imagery

GIS workflows benefit immensely from the integration of 1-inch GSD imagery. The increased data granularity reduces the need for supplementary data collection, such as on-site surveys, by providing all necessary details directly within the imagery. This not only speeds up project timelines but also enhances the accuracy of spatial analyses, from asset management to infrastructure development.

Consider an example in asset management: 1-inch GSD imagery clearly shows the text on a road sign, such as “Speed Limit 35,” eliminating the need for a physical visit to verify this information. When managing thousands of assets, these efficiency gains are substantial, freeing up resources and reducing operational costs.

Driving Innovation and Adoption in GIS

While the benefits of 1-inch GSD imagery are clear, widespread adoption among GIS professionals has been gradual. Concerns about cost and the technical challenges of handling such large datasets are common. However, the return on investment—measured in enhanced data accuracy, efficiency gains, and improved outcomes—often far outweighs these initial barriers. As more GIS professionals experience the transformative power of 1-inch GSD imagery, its adoption is expected to accelerate.

Conclusion: Elevating GIS with 1-Inch GSD Imagery

1-inch GSD aerial imagery is more than just a high-resolution tool; it’s a catalyst for innovation in GIS. By providing an unprecedented level of detail, it empowers GIS professionals to deliver more accurate analyses, develop better models, and ultimately make more informed decisions. As the technology continues to evolve, the applications for 1-inch GSD imagery in GIS will only expand, setting new standards for precision and reliability in the field.

Thanks to EagleView for this article and for their continued support and sponsorship of WAGISA. 

Joanne Markert and her sons, Ryan and Joe

I was delighted to be given the opportunity to congratulate Joanne on her well-deserved Summit award.  I have worked with Joanne in her role as the GIO at the State of Washington for several years.  The following is my interview with Joanne.

Congratulations on being the 2024 Summit Award winner!  Can you describe your response to receiving the award?

Surprised!!  Also flattered and humbled.

Where do you plan to keep the statue?

It is in my home office.

Can you describe your start in the GIS industry, and any important initial lessons you experienced for our Young Professionals? 

I bumped into GIS when I started my career as a environmental planner and never looked back.  I was lucky enough to have support from my supervisors to pursue it as on-the-job training and a terrific mentor, that I can still count on today for help and advice – Elizabeth Lanzer with the Washington Departmet of Transportation. 

Can you describe how has your journey progressed?

I originally started out in applying GIS to environmental planning challenges such as noxious weed control.  After a couple of years, I was able to get a fulltime gig doing GIS with the primary focus being analyst type of work for environmental projects.  I then went to work for a private consulting company and did the work as well as learned Project and Program/ Team Management.  I returned to (working at) the state 7 years ago as the Geographic Information Officer (GIO) and love my job thoroughly.  Now the emphasis is on describing GIS to non-GIS people, encouraging cooperation across the state, and advocating the use of GIS to solve challenges our state faces, such as climate change and equity.

I know being a strong advocate for GIS at the State Level is a big part of your current job.  What kind of tips do you have for communicating the value of GIS to those outside of the field?

I try very hard to understand where the audience is coming from and then describe GIS in terms that can be more easily understood.  It is easy to be complicated with explanations, but it is hard to be direct, simple, approachable.  I bounce ideas off others that I work with and look for reactions from the people I’m talking with to see if I’m hitting the mark.  I prefer personal interactions for that reason – I can gauge better how the conversation is going.  Never underestimate enthusiasm for your subject matter!

While I know you have many still to come, can you describe any exciting or interesting GIS projects you have worked on?

Ialways like the archaeological predictive model that I worked on, but I like working on all aspects of GIS including seeing the relationship with AI.  I think the game changer that is about to come is integration with traditional IT data systems (SQL, etc.).  That will help bring GIS to the forefront!

When you are not working on your job, what do you do for fun and relaxation?

Of course, spending time with my family and friends take priority, but mainly I like to stay curious about the world around me and explore this great state through hiking and driving the back roads.  I just got back from a weekend trip out to Forks, WA and was able to go on some relaxing hikes enjoying the Hoh River and out to the coast to see the sea-stacks and plenty of the marine layer fog.  What a treasure we have right here in WA!  And there are so many of them that I have yet to explore!

I know collaboration is a key part of your role as the GIO for the State of Washington.  What advice to improve collaboration do you have for younger, less experienced GIS professionals?

It’s a small world after all.  You will see people again and again throughout your career.  Ultimately, we are all on the same team, so it makes sense to try to work through differences in a way that solves the problems, improves collaboration in the future and makes everyone happy to work with you the next time they see you.  You are not always right, and neither are they.  Humility and an open mind goes a long way.

Do you have any final thoughts on your experience as the Summit Winner?

It is really an honor to be nominated by my peers for this award and I am very grateful for that.  I’m also very grateful to be able to serve the state of Washington in the capacity of the GIO.  It is an incredible job and responsibility and I try very hard to represent the entire profession well so that doors will be open for those that come after me.

Thanks so much to Joanne for providing me with this information and a well deserved congratulations!

Hope those who attended this year’s Washington GIS Conference are still reflecting on the relationships, connections, and ah-ha moments they made over the course of our 2 or 3 days together! If you were there, you had the opportunity to identify yourselves as a Young Professional (less than 5 years GIS experience) or as a seasoned veteran using a gold or purple star sticker. The purpose of this constellation was to invite people to chat and introduce themselves encouraging cross generational networking and meaningful conversations. But this was just the start of our Young Professional focus.

This month we are officially announcing the launch of our Young Professional Initiative (YPI), designed to connect and empower emerging talent in the field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Whether you're just starting your career or navigating your first few years in the industry, this initiative is crafted with you in mind. At WAGISA, we recognize the invaluable contributions of young and seasoned professionals to the GIS community. Our initiative is built on two primary goals:

1. Connecting young professionals with jobs resources

2. Increase the long term participation of young professionals in volunteer and board positions.

Throughout the year, we have curated a series of engaging activities tailored specifically for young professionals. Our efforts kicked off with a dynamic Young Professionals Workshop led by WAGISA Board Member and Young Professional Micah Gelber (Navy Region Northwest) and Seasoned Veteran and WAGISA President Christina Chelf, where attendees participated in speed networking, group discussions, and enlightening panel talks. This event not only provided valuable career insights but also fostered a sense of community among the twenty-five enthusiastic participants. Huge thank you to our volunteers and panel members: Dan Miller (Washington Military Department), Tamara Davis (King County GIS Center), Bill Keller (King County GIS Center), Harvey Arnone, (City of Seattle), Kim Rogers (Floyd|Snider), Leslie Carman (Thurston County GeoData) and Josh Popelka (King County GIS Center).

Looking ahead, we are excited to continue our efforts with Virtual Coffee Sessions where young professionals can interact informally with WAGISA board members, gaining advice on career development and industry trends. Additionally, our Lunch and Learn Job Series will offer quarterly discussions on topics ranging from resumes to personal branding, providing practical guidance for professional growth. Our First Lunch & Learn will be hosted by Peter Keum (King County) in July and broadly be about how to network, so those attending the ESRI UC have some opportunity to practice! Finally we are planning an end of year in person social event. We hope all you young professionals out there can attend one or more of these events.

To stay updated on these events and opportunities, we encourage all young professionals to visit our YPI webpage and sign up for email reminders. Whether you're exploring new career avenues or seeking to expand your network, the Young Professional Initiative at WAGISA is here to support you every step of the way. If you are interested in helping plan these events email theboard@wagisa.org.

Let's build the future of GIS together—one connection, one opportunity at a time. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and witnessing the positive impact of our community's vibrant young talent.

Christina Chelf

WAGISA President

Join us in June!

Hello WAGISA Members!

We are ecstatic about this year’s Washington GIS Conference. The Board and the Conference Planning Committee are working nonstop to ensure we have the best workshops, presentations, competitions, and social events that will grow and sustain our Washington GIS Community.

Update on our Conference Planning:Registration is open, our venue is secured, food is being ordered, our website is up-to-date with conference details, our workshops are finalized and open for registration, and presentation abstracts are still pouring in (Submit yours!). Something new for this year’s conference is our Young Professionals Initiative! At the conference, this will include a Young Professionals workshop, a Young Professional Social, and other small, useful tidbits like a job postings and resume table. 

This year, we have Dan Coe as our Keynote Speaker, who has been visualizing and presenting PNW spatial data in the most amazing and beautiful ways. You won’t want to miss his breathtaking images.  

What sets our conference apart from your average GIS training session or a giant nationwide conference is the genuine and lasting relationships that WAGISA Members find at our events. From our perspective, the people we have met through WAGISA have become some of our more rewarding and fulfilling friendships. We genuinely look forward to the time WAGISA affords us to spend together.

If you haven’t yet attended our conference or if it’s been a few years since your last conference, please consider joining us this year at the beautiful UW Tacoma Campus! We are excited to have you!

Additionally, if you’re looking to be more involved in the conference, please reach out to our Conference Coordinator: Candice Plendl

Thank you for your time! We are so very excited to see you this June in Tacoma!

LINKS:

Conference Details

Registration

The first annual drone special interest group summit was held on the 14^th of February 2024 at the new Muckleshoot community center in Auburn Washington.  Thanks to Grant Timentwa of the Muckleshoot Tribe for coordinating the space for this event. We had 54 members registered and 46 in attendance including a few students with roughly 10% tribal members, 70% local government and education, 15% state government, and 5% private sector.  The schedule included 3 sessions of formal presentations on software and statewide drone data projects and programs, plus included two additional sessions of group oriented discussion moderated by Peter Keum and Greg Lang.   There were two flight demos during the day, and ample time for members to interact and network.  Thanks to WAGISA for starting off the morning with coffee and light fare which was enjoyed by all.

To get involved in the Drone Special Interest Group in WAGISA please visit:  https://www.wagisa.org/Drone-Special-Interest-Group

Keisha Chinn and Jesse Alton presenting the WSDOT environmental drone program

By: WAGISA Community Engagement Committee

The 2023 Dick Thomas Award or ‘DTA’ was back in person for the first time since 2019 this year’s competition exceeded all expectations. The student presentations made for an edge of the seat experience showcasing innovative analysis and real-world application. The event really drew a crowd! In fact, the DTA was the most attended session at the conference! The competition was held on June 14^th at the University of Washington during the annual WAGISA Washington GIS Conference.

For those not familiar with he DTA, this award was established to honor a Washington state GIS pioneer and mentor, Richard ‘Dick’ Thomas, who passed away in 2006. The intent of this award is to honor Dick by continuing his work of encouraging students to excel in their studies and to transition successfully into careers in the field of GIS. WAGISA’s objective is to inspire students to present their original work related to GIS, geography, or geographic research at the annual Washington GIS conference.  We were lucky to have four fabulous judges:

• Tonya Kauhi – Washington State Department of Health
• Peter Keum – King County Department of Natural Resource and Parks
• Ashlee Llewellyn – Esri
• Bruce Schneider – Washington Department of Natural Resources

We had 10 wonderful student presenters in four groups this year. The student projects were top notch and were chosen in a competitive selection process among many impressive submissions.

         

Students on the main stage with their award certificates.   Students share a table for some conversation and laughs

This year’s Winners are:

1. First Place: Alex Kirchmeier and Shane Dang with a presentation titled An Informal Geovisualization of Tea Shops in Seattle’s International District. Alex and Shane are students at the University of Washington Seattle and will receive a check for $500, free one year membership to WAGISA, free entry to the 2025 WAGISA GIS conference and an opportunity to submit an article to WAGISA’s blog, The Summit Scoop.
2. Second Place: Andrew From and Ken Charm with a presentation titled King County Fish Passage Barriers: A Method for Multiple Agencies to Combine Efforts for the Greater Good. Andrew and Ken are student at the University of Washington Seattle and will receive a check for $250, free one year membership to WAGISA and an opportunity to submit an article to The Summit Scoop.
3. Third Place: Nicholas Conway, Salomé Frévol, Paige Hosman, Candice Magbag Plendl with their presentation titled Investigating Chinook Spawning Patterns in the Face of Changing Climate and Surveying Challenges in Eastern Oregon. Nicholas, Salomé, Paige and Candice are students at the University of Washington Seattle and will receive a check for $125, free one year membership to WAGISA, and an opportunity to submit an article to the Summit Scoop.
4. Honorable Mention: Byron Alvarenga-Beech, Ian Berndt, and Jeff LeDoux with their presentation titled Age Friendly Seattle Discount Directory. Byron, Ian and Jeff are students at the University of Washington Seattle.

Please continue reading to learn about the experiences, insights, and project details from the competitors.

First Place

   

Presenters: Alex Kirchmeier and Shane Dang

Project Title: An Informal Geovisualization of Tea Shops in Seattle’s International District

Abstract:

The Seattle Chinatown-International District is a vibrant hub of Asian culture and heritage, epitomized by the diverse abundance of tea shops scattered throughout. To visualize this unique aspect of Seattle, we created a radial dendrogram overlaid upon a neighborhood-scale map. Our goal was to represent human-spatial experiences characterizing tea shops in the International District using non-cartesian data visualization methods. Our diagram provides keywords associated with various tea shops in the particularly tea-dense International District and the relative frequency of these words in our data, allowing our audience of Seattle residents and visitors to explore the relationships between tea shops and the community. Our map component provides spatial context for the diagram, serving to place our diagram in the real-world space of the International District. Using review data from Yelp, we were able to collect recurring keywords from 15 reviews of each of 10 selected tea shops in the International District. These 10 shops were selected first based on our field observations, with the remaining slots then filled in the order they were given by Yelp and filtered manually to ensure that the selected locations provided tea as a fundamental service. We determined the top 15 keywords for each shop based on the overall frequency of words in the combined 15 reviews for each shop and represented each word’s frequency with a proportional symbol. We completed the diagram by adding a map created in QGIS using the OpenStreetMap layer and the coordinates of the tea shops. This project was inspired by the book Seattleness: A Cultural Atlas, by Tera Hatfield, Jenny Kempson, and Natalie Ross, and completed in the course GEOG 495: Visualizing Seattle offered at the University of Washington, Seattle (Winter 2023).

Reflection

This project came about in quite an impulsive manner; we were prompted to put it together in a class that sought to promote creative approaches to data visualizations, and as two valiant tea enthusiasts, our theme was clear from the start. We were both familiar with tea shops in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District, making it clear that it would be the ideal location for our project. We decided to embrace the creative mission of the course and make our project unique and whimsical while incorporating a theme that brings joy to tea drinkers from all over the area.

The foundation of our project was built upon field observations in the Chinatown-International District. We had sketched out a few key locations, making notes of our spatial experiences. What could we see? Hear? Smell? What kind of activity was there? Tea was purchased–by us–as we found ourselves staying longer than intended and looking for an excuse for restroom access. The primary takeaway from our excursion was an appreciation for the range of tea shops within the area, prompting us to begin thinking about the rich spatial significance of these shops. This diversity within the tea community, as well as our reflection on the spatial history and culture that tea shops represent, was the inspiration for exploring the unique features of each shop in our project. As we continued to research the Chinatown-International District, we realized that there were rising

         Seattle International District sketch

concerns about displacement in the neighborhood; this suddenly added a layer of urgency to our work.

Our project quickly took form from there, and we presented an initial visualization to our classmates. A few months later, we were encouraged by our professor, Gunwha Oh (for whom we are immensely grateful), to submit an abstract to the DTA competition. We were positively flattered that our project had made such an impression in class, and we felt honored to have the opportunity to continue sharing it with others. This opportunity did indeed materialize, as we were fortunate enough to be selected to present at the competition.

And… we won? It was so incredibly validating to see the support that others had for our creative mapping project. To have inspired others to support the local shops in the Chinatown-International District, and to have encouraged the adoption of creative and accessible approaches to mapping and visualizing data, is truly wonderful. Neither of us had previously presented in a professional setting; being able to have this experience is invaluable to our professional confidence. We are grateful for the opportunity to have our work recognized, but even more so for the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for harnessing geospatial information for positive change.

This unique opportunity to engage with the Washington GIS community was a remarkable experience as undergraduates and one that we are immensely thankful for. For Alex, this competition directly inspired further academic engagement with creative maps and visualizations as he finishes his final year as an undergraduate in 2023-24. For Shane, this competition was not just a showcase of GIS skills and knowledge to prove the outcome of his college education, but also a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of collaborative effort with a reminder that GIS is more than just a tool; it's a gateway or lens to understanding the world around us and solving real-world problems.

As we move forward from this competition, we carry with us not only a winners’ trophy but a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the incredible community that exists within the realm of GIS. This competition was an unforgettable milestone in our academic journey, and we are excited to see how the skills and connections forged here will continue to shape our path and contribute to the meaningful use of geographic information systems in the years to come.

Final project visual

Second Place

       

Presenters: Andrew From and Ken Charm

Project Title: King County Fish Passage Barriers: A Method for Multiple Agencies to Combine Efforts for the Greater Good

Abstract:

The King County Fish Passage Restoration Program (FPRP) was launched to address the issue of fish passage barriers to satisfy a key component of King County’s Clean Water Healthy Habitat initiative. Three salmonid species are listed as threatened and federally protected under the Endangered Species (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Puget Sound Chinook salmon (O. tshawytscha), and bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus). These species have declined far below historic population levels thus limiting the preferred food for the Puget Sound Southern Resident killer whale (Orcinus orca). As a result, O. orca was listed as endangered under the ESA in 2005.

By removing key barriers to historic upstream habitat for salmon spawning and rearing, the FPRP offers an excellent return on investment for restoring salmon abundance. By 2032, FPRP’s goal is to remove enough fish passage barriers to increase accessible salmon habitat by at least 50% relative to 2022.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the other major owner of fish passage barriers in King County, is working towards correcting 90% of the barriers they manage by 2030.relative to 2013.

The final GIS will show subwatersheds defined and color coded by each individual barrier. Using the plans published by FPRP and WSDOT, the GIS will visualize the increase in accessible watersheds over time resulting from barrier removal plans. Further, the GIS will show areas where collaboration with other entities could significantly increase the amount of accessible fish habitat than would be created with just the FPRP and/or WSDOT proposed projects. In the end, this GIS will create a visual demonstration of areas within King County where collaboration between FPRP, WSDOT, and other entities could combine to make significant improvements to salmonid access within King County.

Third Place

Presenters: Nicholas Conway, Salomé Frévol, Paige Hosman, Candice Plendl

Project Title: Investigating Chinook Spawning Patterns in the Face of Changing Climate and Surveying Challenges in Eastern Oregon

Each year, spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) return to the Grande Ronde watershed in eastern Oregon to spawn; however, the population is declining, and the species is currently listed on the federal Endangered Species list. In response to the decline, there have been massive efforts to stabilize and increase the populations of Chinook salmon through different means. Over the past 18 years, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has amassed an impressive geospatial dataset of redd locations in the watersheds and more recently, ODFW has begun collecting data on carcass locations and their origins (hatchery vs wild). During this time, private land ownership, budget cuts, and forest fires have limited ODFW’s ability to consistently survey each previously sampled site, so it is imperative to present the data visually in order to understand whether lack of data in a stream for any given year is due to an absence of salmon activity or an inability to survey, and to identify preliminary trends in Chinook salmon habitat use based on environmental variables.   

Our team developed a web application that would allow ODFW and their co-managers to visualize, by year, their surveying efforts and the characteristics and spatial extent of redds and carcasses within a stream network, with additional maps on generational data. To ensure project longevity, we streamlined data importing directly from Excel, automated processing, and created easy-to-follow documentation so that ODFW will be able to continue using the tool for years to come.   

Through this process, our team not only accomplished skills in GIS like cartographic design, using Model and Experience Builder, and knowing the importance of being cozy and familiar with your data; we also forged a strong team relationship, highlighted each other’s strengths, recognized how to support any shortcomings, and turned lessons learned into transferable skills in any circumstance.

Honorable Mention

Presenters: Byron Alvarenga-Beech, Ian Berndt, and Jeff LeDoux

Project Title: Age Friendly Seattle Discount Directory

Abstract:

The Human Services Department within the City of Seattle is looking to reimagine its current Age Discount Directory, a database that collects special discounts for those aged 65 and older and/or adults living with disabilities. Our project aims to build a better, more age-friendly Seattle community through strengthening customer relations and expanding access to goods and services to underserved groups or those who may need extra assistance.

The current tools that support the directory are limited and do not encourage a user-friendly experience. In order to make the directory more useful for both businesses and our community of older adults and people living with disabilities, we have built the following:

•  A Discount Directory Map that arranges the businesses into five different categories with matching color distinctions to maintain cartographic integrity and increase map usability. Users are able to view categories one-by-one using a filter widget and will also be able to find directions to businesses from their current location.
• An upgraded Directory List for those that do not wish to use the interactive map and for Seattle businesses that have online exclusive discounts. Similar to our map, this list has filterable categories to help narrow down searches. Additionally, we have included options that can display a chosen business over on the Directory Map or to Google Maps with the destination already filled out. In order to align with our goals of accessibility, this list can be downloaded as a printable pdf document.
• Finally, we have included an updated Directory Business Submission Form for businesses wanting to join the Age Discount Directory. Using Survey 123, this form geolocates the submitted businesses and will automatically categorize, color, and implement the businesses onto the Directory Map after its location is approved by an administrator.

At the 2023     Washington    GIS Conference one of the highlights was the awarding of the Summit Award.  The Summit Award is for the GIS Person of the year and is awarded to a Washington State GIS Professional who has changed the profession in some significant way, been practicing GIS at least 10 years in the state, made a significant contribution to the GIS profession and community and is known for their excellent work and successful projects in GIS.  Generally, they will have volunteered significant time for the profession.   The 2023 awardee, Maria Sevier, is just such a person. Maria has dedicated significant effort to the GIS Community and WAURISA/WAGISA for over 20 years.  Everyone who has worked or volunteered with her knows her energy and enthusiasm towards her profession and it’s community.  I was fortunate to be able to interview Maria in light of her recent award.  Here is that interview:

Congratulations on being the 2023 Summit Award winner!  Can you describe your response to receiving the award?  I was quite surprised when my name was announced and I felt overwhelmed and happy.  I’ve always seen this award as one that goes to people that have made what I see as a big impact on our local GIS community through their hard work and contributions and I’ve never quite seen myself in that same category.  To know that others do is quite humbling.  I feel so blessed to be part of this amazing community and have learned so much from all of you.

Where do you plan to keep the plaque?    The plaque is in my office.

How did you start in the GIS industry and can you describe your GIS journey?  I began my GIS career as an intern for the NW Indian Fisheries Commission during my senior year studying at The Evergreen State College where I completed my degree.  During my final year at university I had the chance to take a yearlong GIS course and was so excited by what I was learning that I knew it was what I wanted to pursue.  After my internship I moved to Vancouver, WA where I then worked for a contract company that managed the GIS for the BLM in Oregon and from there I went on to work for Clark County WA.  A few years later I moved back north to begin working for the City of Lakewood where I stayed for 13 years.  During my tenure at all of these agencies I was able to grow my skills and move from technician to analyst and then a GIS coordinator.  When I left the City of Lakewood I started a small consulting company where I had the chance to work with non-profits, small businesses and government agencies.  In 2020 I started working at the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department supporting their COVID response team and where I continue to grow their GIS today.

What kinds of tips do you have for communicating the value of GIS to those outside of the field?  When I talk about the value of GIS I like to focus on sharing a story about how GIS can support making connections and helping to educate people so that they are able to make educated decisions. I’ll often reference all of the different ways in which everyone already uses GIS and then tell a story about how it might have been used to support their work or community.  For me it’s all about sharing in context to the person I’m speaking with and how it might benefit them and their work or life.”

Can you describe an exciting or interesting GIS projects you have worked on?   Working on the COVID response team for TPCHD has been one of the most challenging and exciting experiences that I’ve had in my career.  It was a dynamic and challenging experience with 10-12 hour days 7 days a week.  I had the chance to build a GIS from the ground up during a dynamically changing situation.  I gained new skills, created new friendships and supported my community.

When you are not working on your job, what do you do for fun and relaxation?  I love to travel, garden, knit, work on puzzles, hike, workout and spend time with friends.  In the next year I hope to add music concerts to the list of fun.

What advise do you have for young professionals trying to break into the field?  I always recommend volunteering as a great way to learn and network to help you grow your GIS career.

Do you have any final thoughts on your experience as the Summit winner?  I’m humbled by the recognition and look forward to continue to give back to our GIS community through the coming years.

That ends our interview with Maria Sevier, 2023 Summit Award Winner.  

The Summit award is an annual award presented every year at the Washington GIS Conference, if you know someone who you would like to nominated please Click Here to review the criteria and nominate someone you know.

I am still smiling weeks later when I reflect on the 2023 Washington GIS Conference. I have helped plan this conference since 2014 and this one was very special. Following a cancelled 2020 conference, several successful virtual conferences and some logistical challenges, we were nervous about going back to in-person, but we pushed ahead cautiously. Most of the big expensive venues were already taken. We were looking at different date ranges than normal, we had attendee estimates with a margin of +/-100 people. But somehow we pulled off and incredible conference at a new venue with a new cast of volunteers.

Thanks to countless volunteer hours, a dedicated Conference Coordinator and a lot of passion from our community we had almost 300 participants arrive at the University of Washington Tacoma Campus for workshops, presentations, a killer keynote by ESRI’s Ken Field, amazing socials, and a chance to connect again in person. It was magical!

Being the first post-COVID president, and the second president since WAGISA was founded is both an honor and a challenge. I hope the next two years represent a bit of stability after a tumultuous time. I see my term as president as a chance to reflect on what we as an organization do exceptionally well, what we can improve on, and what new ideas we want to explore. More to come on new initiatives of 2024. 

Speaking of new stuff; you are probably reading this in the new SUMMIT SCOOP! The Summit Scoop is our new blog that is replacing the pdf newsletter that we used to send out. While a delight to read, it involved countless volunteer hours every month, we hope this is more sustainable and timely.  We are aiming to make this site something that you subscribe to for updates on jobs, conferences, other events, and resources. 

Lastly, mentorship has been a huge theme in my career. Lots of dedicated GIS professionals have helped me get to where I am today (you know who you are). Because of that I hope to pay it forward to other young professionals. My door is always open to meet up for a cup of coffee, career talk, and finding ways to help you get more involved in this organization. Email me anytime at president@wagisa.org.  

Christina Chelf