GIS-Pro 2026: Full Schedule

Welcome to GIS-Pro 2026 in Milwaukee! The Geospatial Professional Network is thrilled to partner with the Wisconsin Land Information Association for this event. This is where you will find the comprehensive program agenda, speaker profiles, and sponsor directory. Registration and additional conference information are located here.

We’re excited to debut a brand-new session experience at GIS-Pro: GeoSID Talks.

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7:30am CDT

Registration

Tuesday October 13, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT

Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor

Tuesday October 13, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor

Registration

8:00am CDT

Coffee Break

Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor

Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor

Coffee Break

8:00am CDT

GPN Past Presidents' Breakfast Meeting - Invitation Only

Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Oak, 5th Floor

Opportunity for GPN’s past presidents to connect and stay informed on current strategies and future plans of the organization. Attendance is restricted to GPN past presidents only.

Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Oak, 5th Floor

Meeting

8:30am CDT

Welcome and Opening Keynote Address: Unlocking the Evidence: How GIS Mapping Drives Modern Law Enforcement

Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor

Welcome & Land Acknowledgement
Take a moment to honor the traditional, ancestral, and contemporary homeland of the Potawatomi, Ho-Chunk, and Menominee nations as we gather in Milwaukee.

Celebrate communities and hear from GPN and WLIA leadership as we prepare to share, learn, and connect.

Keynote Address: Unlocking the Evidence: How GIS Mapping Drives Modern Law Enforcement
Chris is a 34 year veteran law enforcement officer specializing in cell phone record analysis. He will share how GIS mapping turns complex data into compelling visual stories. Drawing on real cases and courtroom experiences, he will highlight the evolution of mapping tools and techniques in modern investigations.

Speakers

Christopher Corbitt

Investigator & Chief of Technical Operations, State Attorney's Office, 2nd Judicial Circuit of Florida

Christopher Corbitt is a 34-year law enforcement veteran who retired from the Tallahassee (FL) Police Department at the rank of Sergeant after more than 30 years of service. After serving in various uniform and investigative positions, his last 21 years at TPD focused on law enforcement... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor

Keynote Address

10:00am CDT

Coffee Break

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT

Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT
Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor

Coffee Break

10:30am CDT

From Foundation to Implementation: Address Modernization, Data Standards, and Wisconsin's Path to Statewide NG 9-1-1

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Walker, 4th Floor

Attendees will leave this session with practical insights spanning the full journey toward modern, reliable geospatial data for service delivery and emergency response. Through real-world case studies and frameworks, the session covers foundational address and building identification system development, legacy system modernization, streamlined editing workflows, improved geocoding accuracy, and cross-agency collaboration. Attendees will also explore practical approaches to GIS data stewardship — including how to maintain, improve, document, and automate data processes and workflows — before concluding with a statewide update on Wisconsin's NG9-1-1 project and the steps local agencies need to take toward full implementation.

Keywords: Location Services, Modernization, Collaboration, Addressing, Parcels, Data Maintenance, Data Governance, Automation, NG911, 911

Modernizing the Foundation: Indianapolis' Address and Parcel Modernization Initiative
Emily Simms, GIS Tower Lead, City of Indianapolis-Marion County, Indianapolis, IN - USA
Ashley Hitt, GISP, PMP, COO, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions, Louisville, KY – USA

MIDAS: Pathways for GIS Gold
Matt Gerike, PhD, GISP, Geospatial Program Manager, Virginia 9-1-1 & Geospatial Services, North Chesterfield, VA – USA

The Barbados Building ID: A Game‑Changer for Geospatial Intelligence
Paul Collymore, Manager Information Systems, Barbados Lands and Surveys Department, Warrens, St Michael – Barbados

GIS for NG911 in Wisconsin. Where We Stand and What's Next.
Zachary Hassler, GISP, GIS Specialist, Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, Madison, WI - USA

Speakers

Emily Simms

GIS Tower Lead, City of Indianapolis-Marion County

Ashley Hitt, GISP, PMP

COO, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions LLC

Ashley Hitt helps government agencies and private firms execute successful GIS/geospatial projects and software development using PMI (Project Management Institute) principles to manage scope, schedule, and budget. She takes advantage of over 20 years of GIS experience to inform her... Read More →

Matt Gerike, PhD, GISP

Geospatial Program Manager, Virginia 9-1-1 & Geospatial Services

Matt Gerike is Geospatial Program Manager for 9-1-1 GIS at the Virginia Geographic Information Network where he supports localities across the commonwealth. He has managed GIS offices and projects in local government, worked with state level GIS clearinghouses and data development... Read More →

Paul Collymore

Manager Information Systems, Barbados Lands and Surveys Department

Paul Collymore is the Manager of Information Systems at the Lands and Surveys Department in Barbados. He holds a BSc in Computer Science and an MSc in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and brings over 20 years of combined experience in GIS and Information Technology.

In his current role, Paul leads the development, implementation, and training of GIS solutions that address spatial data‑management challenges across the Barbados Government and selected private-sector organizations. His work focuses on modernizing geospatial workflows, improvin... Read More →

Zachary Hassler, GISP

GIS Specialist, Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs

As the GIS Specialist for the Wisconsin Office of Emergency Communications my focus is couching, and advising the 73 data NG911 GIS data providing agencies spread across the state as well as managing our statewide efforts to provide QA, and data management support for those data providers... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Walker, 4th Floor

Applications and Impacts of GIS

10:30am CDT

Streamlining Public Works & Utilities Workflows

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Mitchell, 4th Floor

Improving workflows are foundational applications of GIS. This session shows how organizations are using GIS to improve operations for stormwater, fieldwork, inspections, and utility network migrations.

Keywords: ArcGIS Utility Network, Electric, Communications, Sanitary, Stormwater, Water, Wisconsin, Inspections, Maintenance, Asset Management, Utility Fee Calculation, Impervious Surface Analysis, Process Improvement, Process Documentation, Centralized, Prioritize, Efficiency, Repair, Real-time, Verification, Monitor

Ditch the Clipboard: Streamline Inspections and Maintenance with GIS
Cassidy Killian, Senior Project Manager, Cloudpoint Geospatial, Metamora, IL – USA

“Sealing the Leaks”: A Collaborative Overhaul of the Stormwater Utility Fee Workflow
Timothy Dolan, MGIS, GISP, GIS Manager, City of Falls Church, Virginia, Falls Church, VA – USA

Streamlining Fieldwork with Tasks in ArcGIS Field Maps
Jay Riester, Sr GPS/GIS Application Specialist, Seiler Geospatial, Franklin, WI - USA

From Tiles to Insight: Building a County Imagery Downloader and What You Can Do With the Data
Sig Gomez, GIS Developer, Cook County Government, Chicago, Illinois

Speakers

Cassidy Killian, GISP

Senior Project Manager, Cloudpoint Geospatial

Mr. Killian is a Senior Project Manager at Cloudpoint Geospatial. He has 23 years of experience in government-focused GIS, specializing in developing and implementing innovative solutions that drive strategic decision-making and enhance operational efficiency. He has a proven track... Read More →

Timothy Dolan, MGIS, GISP

GIS Manager, City of Falls Church

Timothy Dolan is a certified GISP with a Master of Geographic Information Systems from Penn State University and demonstrated experience creating, managing, and applying GIS data and automation solutions across a broad range of disciplines—from people-oriented neighborhood development... Read More →

Jay Riester

Sr GPS/GIS Application Specialist, Seiler Geospatial

Jay Riester is a Certified Trimble Mapping GNSS Trainer and has a Geography degree from UW-Oshkosh, WI - 1996. He has worked in the GIS/GNSS data collection industry for 30 years. Since 2007, Jay has worked for Seiler Geospatial as a Sr. GPS/GIS Application Specialist providing to... Read More →

Sig Gomez

GIS Developer, Cook County Government

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Mitchell, 4th Floor

Applications and Impacts of GIS

10:30am CDT

Esri Hands-On Learning Lab

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Pabst, 4th Floor

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Pabst, 4th Floor

Esri Learning Lab

10:30am CDT

Geospatial Innovation in Action: Intelligent Tools for Office and Field Teams

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Wright A, 4th Floor

Dive into the evolving technical landscape of geospatial innovation through sessions focused on agentic AI frameworks, LLM-powered geospatial interfaces, and mobile workforce optimization. Learn how open-source AI models can power automated GeoAgent workflows, including evaluation methods, cost management, and deployment considerations.

Keywords: Agentic AI, Workflow Automation, GeoAI, Machine Learning, Open-Source Tools

No Budget, No Barrier: Building GeoAgent Workflows with Open Source AI
Dave Cook, GISP, Teaching Faculty/Professor of Practice/Chief Innovation Officer/Co-Founder, University of Maryland Wake Forest University/Cornerstone Defense/The Training Data Project, Washington, DC - USA

From Maps to Meaning: Agentic AI for Natural Language Interaction with Geospatial Data and Imagery
Brianna Zumhof, MA, Partner Strategy Manager, Eagleview, San Diego, CA - USA

Your ArcGIS Monitor Has Been Taking Notes. Are You Reading Them?
Jessica Lott, Director of Technical Solutions, dymaptic, Paducah, KY – USA
Holly Kluever, COO, dymaptic, Norwalk, IA - USA

Speakers

Dave Cook, GISP

Professor/Chief Innovation Officer, University of Maryland/Wake Forest University

Dave Cook is a technology leader with over 30 years of experience in data, analytics, and AI. He supports AI/ML programs across the U.S. Intelligence Community and Department of Defense, and teaches AI at the University of Maryland and Wake Forest University. He serves as Chief Innovation... Read More →

Brianna Zumhof, MA

Partner Strategy Manager, Eagleview

Brianna Zumhof is the Partner Strategy Manager for Government at Eagleview, based in San Diego. She previously worked as a GIS Specialist at a civil engineering firm and has worked in both the public and private sectors. She holds a master’s degree in Geography from the University... Read More →

Jessica Lott

Director of Technical Solutions, dymaptic

Jessica Lott is the Director of Technical Solutions at dymaptic, where she leads a skilled team of developers and works closely with clients to design and architect GIS solutions that align with their goals. With over 14 years of experience in GIS, software development, and automation... Read More →

Holly Kluever

COO, dymaptic

Holly is the COO of dymaptic, an Esri Gold Partner specializing in GIS consulting, custom application development, and AI-powered geospatial solutions. She is not a trained GIS professional, but she can appreciate a well designed map and knows just enough about visualizing location... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright A, 4th Floor

Geospatial Technology and Methods

10:30am CDT

The Power of Place: GIS Applications Shaping Our World

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Wright B, 4th Floor

From digital twins to machine learning, census partnerships to urban logistics — this session track showcases the remarkable breadth of what geospatial technology can do. Topics range from digital twin development and asset lifecycle management workflows to predictive modeling.

Keywords: Digital Twin, lidar, Census, machine learning, spatial analysis

Geographic Programs and Applications for the 2030 Census
Maria Panaccione-Tweve, Geographer, U.S. Census Bureau, Suitland, MD - USA

Predicting Urban Logistics Hotspots: How Spatial Analytics and Urban Morphology Explain Last-Mile Delivery Patterns
Hailey Irwin, Geospatial and Mobility Analyst, EIT Urban Mobility Master School Alumni, Washington, DC - USA

Integrating Geospatial Technologies, Machine Learning, and Remote Sensing for Urban Climate Resilience, Sustainability, and Equitable Planning
Mahi Patel, Ph.D. Scholar, Silver Oak University, Ahmedabad

Building the Digital Twin: Leveraging LiDAR and GIS for Smarter Asset Management
Steve Mulberry, Geospatial Innovation Strategist, NV5, Meridian, ID - US

Speakers

Maria Panaccione-Tweve

Geographer, U.S. Census Bureau

Maria Panaccione-Tweve is a Geographer at the U.S. Census Bureau who focuses on outreach for Geographic Partnership Programs and supports project management for the Geographic Update Partnership Program Software Web application.

Hailey Irwin

Geospatial/Mobility Analyst, EIT Urban Mobility

Hailey Irwin is a geospatial and mobility professional based in Washington, DC. She holds dual European master's degrees in Sustainable Urban Mobility from Eindhoven University of Technology and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, plus a BSc in GeoDesign and GIS from the University... Read More →

Mahi Patel, Ph.D.

Scholar, Silver Oak University

Steve Mulberry

Geospatial Innovation Strategist, NV5

Steve Mulberry is a Geospatial Innovation Strategist at NV5 with 36 years of GIS expertise. He helps organizations modernize infrastructure through location intelligence, cloud, automation, Digital Twins, and IoT-driven solutions.

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright B, 4th Floor

Geospatial Technology and Methods

10:30am CDT

Panel: Geospatial Industry Readiness: Bring the Modernized NSRS to Your Tools and Workflows

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Juneau, 5th Floor

As the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) nears the full implementation of the modernized National Spatial Reference System (NSRS), the transition from legacy datums like NAD 83 and NAVD 88 to time-dependent, geopotential-based frames, like NATRF2022 and NAPGD2022, presents a significant shift for the GIS community. While the theoretical foundations are established, the practical success of this transition depends on the readiness of the hardware, software and workflows used by the community.

This panel session brings together leading geospatial hardware and software vendors alongside representatives from the open-source community to discuss the technical roadmap for NSRS integration. Panelists will move beyond theory to address how they are updating commercial-off-the-shelf platforms, field collection hardware, and open-source libraries to support State Plane Coordinate System of 2022, time-dependent coordinates, coordinate transformations and the elimination of the U.S. Survey Foot.

Keywords: datum, NSRS, NGS, data, government, agency

Panelists
Galen Scott, NGS Constituent Manager, NOAA's National Geodetic Survey, Silver Spring, MD - USA
Michael Dennis, NOAA's National Geodetic Survey, Silver Spring, MD - USA

Speakers

Galen Scott

NGS Constituent Manager, NOAA's National Geodetic Survey

Galen Scott has spent over 20 years as a Federal civil servant with the National Geodetic Survey (NGS), the nation’s oldest science agency. He currently serves as the NGS Constituent Manager, responsible for engaging the broad array of NGS stakeholders to help them prepare to transition... Read More →

Michael Dennis, PhD, PLS, PE

Geodesist, NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey

Michael L. Dennis, PhD, RLS, PE is a geodesist at NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey (NGS) where he manages the State Plane Coordinate System of 2022 Project. He is also involved in evaluation of data processing and survey network adjustment procedures, development of standards and... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Juneau, 5th Floor

The GIS Profession

10:30am CDT

Solution Mapping: A Collaborative Problem-Solving Technique for GIS Professionals

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Wright C, 4th Floor

What if your team could walk into a room with a list of challenges and walk out with a prioritized set of actionable solutions - all in under an hour? Solution Mapping makes that possible. In this hands-on exercise, participants will experience Solution Mapping firsthand - a facilitated group exercise developed by the Geospatial Professional Network that blends the structured prioritization of Lean Coffee with the collaborative clustering of Affinity Mapping.

Participants will identify real problems facing their organizations, use dot voting to surface the issues that matter most, and collectively brainstorm solutions in an open, low-barrier format. Whether you're a analyst looking for fresh ways to engage stakeholders, a team lead navigating organizational change, or a practitioner who wants to bring more collaborative energy to your workplace, Solution Mapping is a technique you can take home and use immediately.

Keywords: solution, mapping, collaboration, actionable, confidence

Tim Nolan, GISP, CGCIO, LAVM, Senior IT Manager, Collin County, McKinney, TX - USA

Moderators

Adam Ratliff

GIS Tech II, City of Las Cruces

Speakers

Tim Nolan, GISP, CGCIO, LAVM

Senior Applications Manager, Collin County

Tuesday October 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright C, 4th Floor

The GIS Profession

12:00pm CDT

GeoLunch: Rapid-Fire Exhibitor Roundup & WLIA Scholarship Raffle

Tuesday October 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT

Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor

Grab lunch and get up to speed fast. This session features rapid-fire presentations from exhibitors, each offering a concise look at new tools, technologies, and services shaping the geospatial industry.

The session will also include the WLIA 50/50 Raffle to raise money for student scholarships, specifically the Damon Anderson Memorial Scholarship.

In 2004, WLIA created a scholarship fund that has been used to help Wisconsin students further their goals in the land records profession. Our fundraisers allow us to support future generations of land records and geospatial professionals with impactful scholarships. We formally named the program the Damon Anderson Memorial Scholarship fund after a man who was a leader dedicated to the education of students of all ages. A description of the scholarship program is on our website: https://www.wlia.org/wlia-foundation

Tuesday October 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor

Hosted Meal

1:00pm CDT

Exhibit Hall Grand Opening & Dessert with Exhibitors

Tuesday October 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level

Kick off the Exhibit Hall in style! Enjoy dessert while meeting exhibitors, discovering innovative solutions, and connecting with colleagues across the geospatial community.

Tuesday October 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level

Networking

2:00pm CDT

Beyond the Map: Turning AVL, Drones, and Hot Spots into Strategic Emergency Response

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Walker, 4th Floor

This panel discussion explores how the City of Wauwatosa has leveraged GIS to strengthen public safety operations and decision-making. Panelists will discuss how emerging “big data” sources offer powerful insights but also introduce challenges that GIS analysts must carefully manage. The conversation will highlight how automated vehicle locator (AVL) data extends beyond basic tracking to support performance measurement, deployment strategies, and response optimization—while acknowledging its limitations.

Attendees will also learn how GIS enables real-time situational awareness during critical incidents like flood responses and crash investigations. Finally, the session will showcase how the Wauwatosa Police Department’s innovative use of GIS in policy development helped secure federal funding to expand and enhance these efforts.

Keywords: Drone, AVL, Flood, Police, Law Enforcement, Public Safety, Emergency Response

Panelists
Dominick Ratkowski, Crime Analyst, Wauwatosa Police Department, Milwaukee, WI - USA
Eric Piza, Lipman Family Professor and Director of Crime Analysis Initiatives, School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Northeastern University
David Cefalu, Detective, Wauwatosa Police Department, Milwaukee, WI - USA
Paul Vepraskas, Geographic Information Systems Manager, City of Wauwatosa, Wauwatosa, WI - USA

Speakers

Dominick Ratkowski

Crime Analyst, Wauwatosa Police Department

Eric Piza

Professor and Director of Crime Analysis Initiatives, School of Criminology and Criminal Justice/Northeastern University

Dr. Piza’s research agenda focuses on the spatial analysis of crime patterns, evidence-based policing, crime control technology, and the integration of academic research and police practice.

David Cefalu

Detective, Wauwatosa Police Department

Detective David Cefalu, DBA started as s police officer with Wauwatosa Police Department in 2006 and currently serves in the Investigative Division.

Paul Vepraskas

GIS Manager, City of Wauwatosa

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Walker, 4th Floor

Applications and Impacts of GIS

2:00pm CDT

Examining Spatial Patterns of Population Shifts, Access, and Safety in Urban and Regional Systems

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Wright C, 4th Floor

This session examines how spatial analysis is used to understand population change, infrastructure access, and transportation safety in urban and regional contexts, with attention to equity. Together, the presentations show how displacement, shifting populations, and uneven access to infrastructure and safe mobility shape conditions across cities and communities. By highlighting patterns of movement, access, and risk, the studies demonstrate how spatial analysis makes these uneven geographies visible and measurable.

Keywords: Spatial analysis, Planning, Infrastructure, Demographics, Municipal GIS

Advancing Equity and Efficiency in Sidewalk and Ramp Requests: A GIS-Driven Approach for the City of Houston
Jessica Lott, Director of Technical Solutions, dymaptic, Paducah, KY – USA

Mapping Safety for Children: Using GIS to Prioritize Traffic Safety Around Schools and Parks
Oghenetega Ogodo, AICP, Transportation Planner, TYLin International City Solutions (Formerly Sam Schwartz), Chicago, IL – USA

Mapping the Impacts of Gentrification: A GIS Framework for Analyzing Displacement
Reginald Archer, PhD, GISP, Associate Professor, Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN – USA

Population Shift-Share Analysis: Planning in No Growth Scenarios
Lynn Dupont, GISP, Licensed Landscape Architect, GIS Manager, Principal Planner, New Orleans Regional Planning Commission, New Orleans, LA - USA
Malissa Givhan, Title Vi Coordinator, New Orleans Regional Planning Commission, New Orleans, LA - USA

Speakers

Jessica Lott

Director of Technical Solutions, dymaptic

Oghenetega Ogodo, AICP

Transportation Planner, TYLin International (City Solutions Team)

Oghenetega Ogodo, AICP, is a Transportation Planner with TYLin International's City Solutions team who uses spatial analysis to make safety risks in transportation systems visible and measurable. She specializes in applying geospatial methods to identify high-risk intersections, corridors... Read More →

Reginald Archer, PhD, GISP

Associate Professor, Tennessee State University

Associate professor of Applied GIS in the Department of Environmental Science at Tennessee State University (TSU). He teaches GIS & Remote Sensing topics and directs both the Geospatial Graduate certificate program and the Geospatial Research, Analysis, and Instructional Lab at TSU... Read More →

Lynn Dupont, ASLA, GISP

Principal Planner/GIS Manager, New Orleans Regional Planning Commission

Nominated by URISA, Lynn Dupont was appointed in 2022 to serve a 3-year term on the NGAC, a US Federal Advisory Committee focused on providing advice and recommendations on national geospatial policy / management issues, the advancement of the US National Spatial Data Infrastructure... Read More →

Malissa Givhan

Title VI Coordinator, New Orleans Regional Planning Commission

Malissa Givhan, Title VI Coordinator, for the New Orleans Regional Planning Commission and Community Planner for Ubuntu Community and Neighborhood Planning emphases applied planning statistics. She has served with the Capital Area RPC and the Federal Transit Administration Office... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Wright C, 4th Floor

Applications and Impacts of GIS

2:00pm CDT

Esri Hands-On Learning Lab

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Pabst, 4th Floor

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Pabst, 4th Floor

Esri Learning Lab

2:00pm CDT

Geospatial Strategies for Sustainable Water and Environmental Management

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Wright B, 4th Floor

These sessions highlight the growing role of geospatial technologies in addressing critical water resource and infrastructure challenges across diverse environments. Through a combination of practical workflows and advanced analytical techniques, presenters demonstrate how GIS, remote sensing, and modeling tools can address challenges such as drought, infrastructure aging, and flood risk.

Keywords: remote sensing, flood modeling, water resource management, lidar, climate resilience

Improving Idaho Water Storage Infrastructure with Site-selection Modeling for High-Elevation Subsurface Water Storage Structures
Mel Campbell, GIS Analyst, Bannock County GIS, Idaho Falls, ID - USA

Geospatial Innovation for Aging Canals: A Path to Water Security
Avantika Ramekar, PhD., GIS Analyst, Prairie Engineers, Cordova, TN - USA

Assessing the Influence of Vegetation Cover Change on Flood Severity: A GIS and Remote Sensing Case Study of Chikwawa District, Malawi
Margaret Chilinda, Graduate Student, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ – USA

From Assets to Insight: Rethinking Stormwater for a Resilient Future
Johnny Harley, GISP, GIS Analyst, TREKK Design Group, Fairway, KS - USA

Speakers

Mel Campbell

GIS Analyst, Bannock County

Mel received their M.S. in GIS and B.S. in biology from Idaho State University with the goal of merging their logical mindset and their love of nature to make an impact on how human interactions shape our environment. Mel is employed as a GIS Analyst for Bannock County, Idaho and... Read More →

Avantika Ramekar, PhD

GIS Analyst, Prairie Engineers

Dr. Ramekar is a Geospatial Scientist at Prairie Engineers. She has served on a committee with the American Association of Geographers (AAG), where she actively contributed to advancing geospatial knowledge and research. At Prairie, she applies her expertise in GIS across a range... Read More →

Margaret Chilinda

Graduate Student, Arizona State University

Margaret Chilinda is a Graduate Student pursuing a Master of Science in Global Technology and Development at Arizona State University. She holds a BSc in Natural Resource Management from Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), Malawi, where her undergraduate... Read More →

Johnny Harley, GISP

GIS Analyst, TREKK Design Group

Johnny Harley, is a GIS Analyst for TREKK Design Group in Kansas City, MO. I have worked in utilities for 7 years and was previously a GIS Analyst for Black & McDonald. Johnny graduated from Northwest Missouri State with a BS in Geography and an MS in GIS. He specializes in mobile... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Wright B, 4th Floor

Geospatial Technology and Methods

2:00pm CDT

Driving GIS Success: Leadership, Governance, and Project Management in a Changing Workplace

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Wright A, 4th Floor

This session focuses on leadership best practices and strategies that have proven success in scaling and delivering GIS across organizations. In this modern age of hybrid and remote work, it is more important than ever to build strong relationships and operate with best practices such as those from the Project Management Institute (PMI) so that work and teams align to organizational priorities, achieve goals on time and budget, and garner executive support. Building trust, maintaining accountability, supporting staff development, and using governance, standards, and technology are all essential to sustaining GIS program consistency and reducing burnout.

Keywords: leadership, management, project management, executive, team building

Leading GIS Teams in a Remote World
Christian Hartnett, MSc, MBA, GISP Adjunct Professor of GIS/Vice President Practice Technology, SWCA Environmental Consultants, Austin, TX – USA

Driving GIS Success: Leveraging Executive Engagement, Governance, and KPIs
Curtis Pulford, Enterprise GIS Manager, City of Phoenix, New River, AZ – USA

Applying Project Management Principles to Geospatial Projects and Programs
Ashley Hitt, GISP, PMP, COO, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions, Indianapolis, IN - USA

Eight Ways to Identify Opportunities for GIS in Public Works
Adam Carnow, AICP, GISP, Public Works Industry Specialist, Esri, Charlotte, NC - USA

Speakers

Christian Hartnett, MSc, MBA, GISP

Vice President Practice Technology, SWCA Environmental Consultants

Christian T. Hartnett is the Director of Practice Technology at SWCA Environmental Consultants. He began working with GIS during his undergraduate studies in archaeology at the University of Texas at Austin. He went on to earn a Master's of Science in GIS and Spatial Analysis in Archaeology... Read More →

Curtis Pulford

Enterprise GIS Manager, City of Phoenix

Curtis is the Enterprise GIS Manager for City of Phoenix, the fifth-most populous city in the United States. It is also the state capital and largest city in the state at 517.9 square miles. Our metropolitan area is the 11th largest by population in the United States, with approximately... Read More →

Ashley Hitt, GISP, PMP

COO, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions LLC

Adam Carnow, AICP, GISP

Public Works Industry Specialist, Esri

Adam Carnow is the Public Works Industry Marketing Specialist at Esri. He is a keynote speaker and thought leader. He collaborates with his colleagues, Esri Partners, customers, and the public works community to lead the successful application of GIS across the public works disciplines... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Wright A, 4th Floor

The GIS Profession

2:00pm CDT

GeoSID Talk: Hearts and Minds, Influencing GIS at your Organization

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Mitchell, 4th Floor

Getting GIS adopted isn’t just about building great maps - it’s about navigating people, culture, and communication. This GeoSID session brings together three complementary perspectives on what it really takes to make GIS stick within an organization.

First, learn practical, field-tested strategies for gaining organizational buy-in, breaking through resistance, and demonstrating the real value of GIS in everyday workflows. Next, dive into the often-overlooked world of organizational dynamics: understanding the motivations, relationships, and politics that shape how (and whether) GIS initiatives succeed. Finally, discover how to translate your technical work into compelling, human-centered stories that resonate with non-technical audiences and decision-makers.

Together, these talks highlight a critical truth: successful GIS implementation requires more than technical expertise - it demands empathy, strategy, and strong communication.

Keywords: GIS Management, Organizational Change, Buy-In

How to get your organization to buy into GIS: tips and tricks
Ethan McGhee, Systems Application Specialist GIS, City of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, CA - USA

GIS vs. the Organization
Carmi Neiger, Ph.D., M.Arch., Lecturer, DePaul University, Glenview, IL – USA

Maps Don't Speak for Themselves: Storytelling for GIS Professionals
Holly Kluever, COO, dymaptic, Norwalk, IA - USA

Speakers

Ethan McGhee

Systems Application Specialist GIS, City of San Luis Obispo

Ethan McGhee is a geospatial professional serving as a Systems Application Specialist II for the City of San Luis Obispo, focusing on GIS applications for local government. He holds a B.S. in Environmental Management and Protection from Cal Poly (2021) and is pursuing a M.S. in Spatial... Read More →

Carmi Neiger, Ph.D., M.Arch.

Adjunct Professor, DePaul University

Holly Kluever

COO, dymaptic

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Mitchell, 4th Floor

The GIS Profession

2:00pm CDT

GeoSID Talk: Unlocking the Mutual Value of Internships: Why Intern? Why Hire?

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Juneau, 5th Floor

Why should a student pursue a GIS internship? And why should an organization invest the resources to host one? This session explores the compelling "why" behind GIS internships from three distinct viewpoints: a current intern, a former intern turned GIS technician, and a manager who champions emerging talent.

For emerging professionals, internships are crucial opportunities to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world spatial problem-solving, offering hands-on experience that classrooms simply can't replicate. For organizations, an internship program is a strategic investment. It provides a chance to inject fresh perspectives into workflows, tackle backlogged projects, and cultivate a reliable pipeline of tested GIS professionals.

Join us as we unpack the mutual benefits of these programs. Whether you are looking to launch your career or build your team's capacity, you will leave with actionable strategies to maximize the experience.
Keywords: Intern, Internship, Manage, Leadership, Career, Experience

Why Intern? Why Hire? Unlocking the Mutual Value of GIS Internships
Adam Ratliff, GIS Tech II, City of Las Cruces, Las Cruces, NM - USA
Liz Parrish, MBA, GISP, Sr. Manager of Geospatial Analytics & Insights, H-E-B, Dallas, TX - USA
Ron Burns, GISP-E, GIS Data Steward Intern, Aurora Water, CO - USA

Moderators

Tim Nolan, GISP, CGCIO, LAVM

Senior Applications Manager, Collin County

Speakers

Adam Ratliff

GIS Tech II, City of Las Cruces

Liz Parrish, MBA, GISP

Sr. Manager of Geospatial Analytics & Insights, H-E-B

Liz Parrish is the Sr. Manager of Geospatial Analytics & Insights for H-E-B. She has earned multiple industry certifications and is a 2x Esri SAG award winner. Liz is passionate about enabling organizations and individuals in achieving success through well-curated geospatial strategies... Read More →

Ron Burns, GISP-E

Data Steward Intern, Aurora Water

My name is Ron Burns, and I am an emerging GISP focused on applied mapping analytics, public service, and community work. I serve as a GIS Data Steward Intern with the City of Aurora Water Department, supporting asset intake workflows, raw water flow mode

Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Juneau, 5th Floor

The GIS Profession

3:30pm CDT

Refreshment Break in Exhibit Hall

Tuesday October 13, 2026 3:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level

Tuesday October 13, 2026 3:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level

Coffee Break

4:00pm CDT

GIS as a Catalyst for Data-Driven Decisions for Public Works and Utilities

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Mitchell, 4th Floor

Organizations are seeking to move from reactive to proactive operations by implementing technology to power data-driven decisions. This session will demonstrate how organizations use GIS to improve decision making in permitting, fleet management, and utilities.
Keywords: County, Permit, Mobile, Fleet, Spatial Asset Management, Gas, Water, Utility Network, Tracing, Geoprocessing Services, Field Collection

A GIS-Based Approach to Permit Management
Jeff DuMez, GIS Coordinator/LIO, Brown County Planning & Land Services Department, Green Bay, WI - USA
Mike Nordquist, Solutions Engineer, Pro-West & Associates, Walker, MN – USA
Driving Innovation: How St. Johns County Transformed Fleet Management
Summer Manestar, MSc., GIS Analyst, St. Johns County Public Works Department, Saint Augustine, FL - USA
Olivia Testasecca, MSc., GIS Analyst, St. Johns County Public Works Department, Saint Augustine, FL – USA
Powering Modern Utilities: Real-World GIS Solutions for Efficiency, Compliance, and Field Operations
Sarah Brenneman, GIS Specialist, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions, Noblesville, IN - USA

Speakers

Jeff DuMez

GIS Coordinator/LIO, Brown County Planning & Land Services Department

Jeff is the GIS Coordinator and LIO for Brown County, as position he has held since 2001.

Mike Nordquist

Solutions Engineer, Pro-West & Associates

Mike configures and deploys GIS solutions that help solve local governments’ organizational challenges. His expertise spans the breadth of GIS including enterprise GIS administration, data management, and training. Before joining Pro-West, Mike served as a GIS Analyst at Wright... Read More →

Summer Manestar, MSc

GIS Analyst, St. Johns County Public Works Department

Summer is a GIS Analyst with the St. Johns County Public Works Department, where she supports planning and engineering initiatives through geospatial data management, advanced spatial analysis, and drone-based surveying. She holds a BA in Coastal Environmental Science from Flagler... Read More →

Olivia Testasecca, MSc

GIS Analyst, St. Johns County Public Works Department

Sarah Brenneman

GIS Specialist, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions

Sarah Brenneman is a GIS Specialist at Cultivate Geospatial Solutions, where she creates tailored GIS solutions that address specific client needs. With a strong GIS background, she has contributed to numerous projects, focusing on developing interactive web applications and user-friendly... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Mitchell, 4th Floor

Applications and Impacts of GIS

4:00pm CDT

GIS at the Front Line: Advancing Emergency Response, Damage Assessment, and Next-Gen 9-1-1

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Walker, 4th Floor

This session highlights how GIS is transforming public safety across the full emergency lifecycle—from preparedness and response to recovery and next-generation systems. Learn how Denton County used advanced network analysis and automation to design data-driven EMS response zones and implement proximity-based dispatch across multiple jurisdictions. Explore a practical, defensible GIS workflow for post-tornado damage assessment that improves consistency, supports equitable property valuation, and strengthens documentation for appeals. Finally, discover how GIS is enabling the future of 9-1-1 by supporting indoor and 3D location accuracy, helping agencies meet evolving federal requirements while enhancing real-world response capabilities in PSAPs and school districts.

Keywords: Indoors, 3D, School Safety, Z-axis, Fire, Response, Network Analysis, Parcel Assessment, GeoEnrichment, Local Government, Spatial Analysis, Hazard Analysis, Emergency Response

GIS to the Rescue: 3D, Indoor Mapping, and Federal Policy
Keri Brennan, GISP, ENP, Subject Matter Expert, GeoComm Inc., Indianapolis, IN - USA

The Creation of Texas’ First Countywide Fire Department
Christine Fox, GIS Analyst, Denton County, Denton, TX – USA

Speakers

Keri Brennan, GISP, ENP

Subject Matter Expert, GeoComm

Keri Brennan, GISP, ENP is a Product Manager for Public Safety GIS Content and Mapping with GeoComm. Keri has over 27 years of GIS experience as a consultant, trainer, and product manager with focus in providing solutions to local, state, and federal governments, especially in the... Read More →

Christine Fox

GIS Analyst, Denton County

Christine earned her B.S. in Ecology for Environmental Sciences and a GIS certification from the University of North Texas. She began her GIS career mapping invasive plant species at Katmai National Park. After returning, she worked as a GIS Technician with Denton County Election... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Walker, 4th Floor

Applications and Impacts of GIS

4:00pm CDT

Esri Hands-On Learning Lab

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Pabst, 4th Floor

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Pabst, 4th Floor

Esri Learning Lab

4:00pm CDT

Collaborative GIS for Transparent, Data-Driven Government

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Wright B, 4th Floor

These presentations highlight how government GIS supports transparency, data-driven decision-making, and cross-agency coordination. From open data hubs that reduce information requests, to parcel-level market modeling that improves tax equity, to integrated right-of-way systems that connect assets and operations, each demonstrates how modern GIS enables more collaborative, efficient, and trusted public sector outcomes.

Keywords: Government GIS, Transparency, Access

The Modern GIS Hub: Transparency, Trust, and Fewer FOIA Requests
Crystal Williams, GIS Director, McLean County GIS Consortium, Bloomington, IL – USA

Managing the Right-of-Way as a Shared System: Connecting GIS, Assets, and Activity
Matt Harman, MBA., Sr. Vice President, AtomAI Solutions, Inc., Saratoga Springs, UT - USA

Speakers

Crystal Williams

GIS Director, McLean County GIS Consortium

Crystal Williams is the GIS Director for McLean County GIS Consortium in Illinois and a FOIA officer who supports countywide transparency and public access to information. She leads regional geospatial strategy, multi‑agency collaboration, and the development of public‑facing... Read More →

Matt Harman, MBA

Sr. Vice President, AtomAI Solutions, Inc.

Matt Harman is a longtime leader in public sector technology with more than 20 years of experience in GIS, enterprise asset management, right-of-way coordination, permitting, and organization change. He works with public agencies to modernize infrastructure operations, improve decision-making... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Wright B, 4th Floor

The GIS Profession

4:00pm CDT

From Field to Front Office: Streamlining GIS Workflows, Upgrades, and Access Across the Organization

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Wright C, 4th Floor

This session explores how to strengthen GIS operations across an organization by connecting efficient field data collection, strategic system management, and accessible geospatial resources. Attendees will learn how an organization leveraged ArcGIS Field Maps for accurate, rules-driven workflows, best practices around planning and executing Esri upgrades and migrations while minimizing risk and downtime, and how an internal centralized geospatial storefront can improve data access, collaboration, and user engagement. Together, these approaches demonstrate how to build scalable, resilient GIS programs that deliver greater organizational value.

Keywords: Data collection, administration, best practices, administration, collaboration, ROI

Inside the Rock County Employee Geospatial Storefront
Jennifer Borlick, Geospatial Services Administrator, Rock County, Janesville, WI – USA

Preparing for Esri Upgrades and Migrations
Wendy Peloquin, GISP, LAVM, Director of Commercial Sales Operations, Avineon, Jacksonville, FL - USA

Building Smarter Field Workflows with ArcGIS Field Maps
Jessica Lott, Director of Technical Solutions, dymaptic, Paducah, KY - USA

Speakers

Jennifer Borlick

Geospatial Services Administrator, Rock County

Jennifer Borlick is the Geospatial Services Administrator for Rock County (Wisconsin) in the Planning, Economic and Community Development Agency. She represents the department on the Land Records Committee and the Rock County Land Information Council, where she also serves as Cha... Read More →

Wendy Peloquin, GISP

Business Development Manager, Avineon

Wendy Peloquin, GISP, LAVM is the Director of Commercial Sales Operations at Avineon with over 18 years of industry experience. She earned a B.S. in Geography and a Certificate in GIS from UGA and a Masters degree in GIS Administration from the UWF. Wendy is an active member of... Read More →

Jessica Lott

Director of Technical Solutions, dymaptic

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Wright C, 4th Floor

The GIS Profession

about <br>

4:00pm CDT

GeoSID: Building from the Ground Up: Real Stories from GIS Small Business Owners

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Wright A, 4th Floor

Starting a GIS consulting business can feel like stepping into the unknown: equal parts exciting, unpredictable, and, at times, downright intimidating. In this session, three small business owners will share their personal journeys of building GIS consulting firms from the ground up. Through candid stories, they’ll highlight the real-world challenges they’ve faced, the lessons learned along the way, and the practical strategies that helped them navigate everything from landing clients to managing growth.

Following the presentations, a moderated panel discussion will dive deeper into what it truly takes to start, run, and sustain a GIS consulting practice. The conversation will explore not only the technical and operational aspects of entrepreneurship, but also the less visible side - uncertainty, risk, and fear.

Attendees can expect an honest, grounded discussion about how fear shows up in entrepreneurship and how to work through it without letting it stall progress. Panelists will share practical approaches for building confidence, maintaining momentum, and creating a business that is both sustainable and personally fulfilling. Whether you’re considering going out on your own or looking to grow an existing firm, this session offers real insights from those actively navigating the path.

Keywords: small business, consulting, entrepreneurship, career growth, leadership

Panelists
Judy Colby-George, GISP, Owner/Principal, VIEWSHED, Yarmouth, ME - USA
Other panelists - TBD

Speakers

Judy Colby-George, GISP

Owner/Principal, VIEWSHED

Judy is the owner of Viewshed, a Landscape Architecture, GIS, and Planning firm. She has worked with all levels of governments, regional planning agencies, and various private clients for over 30 years. Judy has extensive experience with public participation GIS and working with... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Wright A, 4th Floor

The GIS Profession

4:00pm CDT

The GIS Career Lifecycle: Growing and Evolving Your Career Journey and Evolution

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Juneau, 5th Floor

This session explores the GIS career journey from early professional uncertainty through mid-career transitions and career advancement, highlighting both expected and unexpected paths along the way. Attendees will learn how to move from academic GIS work into real-world practice, navigate ambiguity, and build confidence beyond foundational technical GIS skills. The discussion also covers diverse career paths beyond traditional analyst roles, including opportunities in leadership, project management, operations, and product-focused work, emphasizing the importance of communication, curiosity, and relationship-building. Finally, the session addresses the “missing middle” of mid-career professionals which is often a key point defining the choice to pursue deeper technical or business centric focuses. This session offers strategies for finding direction, mentorship, and growth opportunities while deciding between technical specialization and leadership pathways.

Keywords: career, growth, learning, leadership, management, mentorship
Stuck in the Middle: Navigating the Mid-Career GIS Identity Crisis
Christina Brunsvold, MS, GISP, Lead GIS Administrator/Project Manager, CAL FIRE, Sacramento, CA - USA

Beyond the Map: Career Paths GIS Doesn’t Talk About
Johnny Harley, GISP, GIS Analyst, TREKK Design Group, Fairway KS - USA
Brianna Zumhof, Partner Strategy Manager for Government, Eagleview, San Diego, CA – USA

Mapping the Transition from Student to Geospatial Professional
Allison Bednar, GIS Analyst, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, Tampa, FL - USA

Speakers

Christina Brunsvold, MS, GISP

Lead GIS Administrator & Project Manager, CAL FIRE

Christina is the Lead GIS Administrator and Project Manager for CAL FIRE. She leads the team within Information Technology who manages and maintains the geospatial infrastructure that is critical to CAL FIRE's mission and used by countless CAL FIRE employees, allied agencies, and... Read More →

Johnny Harley, GISP

GIS Analyst, TREKK Design Group

Brianna Zumhof, MA

Partner Strategy Manager, Eagleview

Allison Bednar, M.S.

GIS Analyst, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council

Allison Bednar serves as a GIS Analyst for the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. Allison supports TBRPC’s planning efforts through spatial analysis, cartography, and data visualization. She has experience with vulnerability assessments, tree canopy analyses, and urban heat studies... Read More →

Tuesday October 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Juneau, 5th Floor

The GIS Profession

5:00pm CDT

Exhibit Hall Networking Reception

Tuesday October 13, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm CDT

Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level

Join us in the Exhibit Hall for an evening of networking with exhibitors and fellow attendees. Enjoy refreshments while exploring solutions, making connections, and continuing the day’s conversations.

Tuesday October 13, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm CDT
Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level

Networking

6:45pm CDT

GeoPoker & Milwaukee Landmark Crawl

Tuesday October 13, 2026 6:45pm - 9:00pm CDT

Offsite

Join this offsite networking experience combining GeoPoker with a guided landmark crawl through Milwaukee. Participants will visit key locations, collect playing cards, and engage with fellow attendees in a fun and social setting.

Tuesday October 13, 2026 6:45pm - 9:00pm CDT
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