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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.
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Wednesday, October 14
 

7:30am CDT

Registration
Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor

Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom Foyer, 5th Floor
  Registration

8:00am CDT

Awards Breakfast: Celebration of Geospatial Excellence
Wednesday October 14, 2026 8:00am - 10:00am CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor
Celebrate the leaders and innovators shaping the geospatial profession. This hosted breakfast honors outstanding contributions and achievements across the community in a welcoming and inspiring setting.
Wednesday October 14, 2026 8:00am - 10:00am CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor
  Hosted Meal

10:00am CDT

Coffee Break in Exhibit Hall
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT
Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level

Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT
Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level
  Coffee Break

10:30am CDT

From Maps to Games: GIS Responses to Implications of Climate Change
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright A, 4th Floor
Hear about diverse applications of geospatial technologies to address climate resilience, environmental change, and sustainable land management across global contexts. Presenters will showcase GIS‑enabled climate action planning tools, remote‑sensing analyses, urban heat modeling, and nature‑based flood mitigation planning. Collectively, these projects demonstrate how spatial data, community engagement, and interdisciplinary methods can drive more informed decision‑making for both contemporary and historical environmental challenges.
Keywords: Climate & Community Resilience, Land Use, Environmental Change, Urban & Ecological Planning


El Niño Southern Oscillation and Pasture Shift in the Moche Valley - La Libertad, Peru
Corey Hoover, MS, PhD candidate/GIS Analyst Section106 Reviewer, Louisiana State University/Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation, Baton Rouge, LA - USA

From Gameboard to Dashboard: Accelerating Climate Action with GIS
Teresa Townsend, AICP, President and CEO, Planning Communities, Raleigh, NC - USA
Breece Robertson, President, Breece Robertson Consulting, Santa Fe, NM – USA

Urban Development Implications on Land Surface Temperatures and Surface Urban Heat Islands in Nairobi City, Kenya
Sharon Onyango, Research Officer - GIS for Climate and Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

From maps to vision: nature-based solutions in Georgetown, South Carolina
Shu-Mei Huang, Coastal GIS Specialist, SC Sea Grant Consortium/College of Charleston, Charleston, SC - USA

Speakers
avatar for Corey Hoover, MS

Corey Hoover, MS

PhD candidate/GIS Analyst Section106 Reviewer, Louisiana State University/Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation
Corey Hoover is a PhD candidate in Anthropology at Louisiana State University and GIS Analyst and  Section106 Reviewer at the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation. His research focuses on the northern coast of Peru covering areas such as environmental archaeology, stable isotope... Read More →
avatar for Teresa Townsend, AICP

Teresa Townsend, AICP

President and CEO, Planning Communities
Teresa Townsend is the founding partner and Chief Executive Officer of Planning Communities, a women-owned, Certified B Corporation advancing conservation, climate action, and community resilience. With nearly 30 years of experience, she is recognized for integrating geospatial science... Read More →
avatar for Breece Robertson

Breece Robertson

President, Breece Robertson Consulting
Breece Robertson is a global leader in geospatial strategy, conservation planning, and climate resilience with over 25 years advancing equitable, data-driven solutions at local, national, and global scales. She has led transformative initiatives at The Trust for Public Land and held... Read More →
avatar for Sharon Onyango

Sharon Onyango

Research Officer, Climate and Health Kenya Medical Research Institute

avatar for Shu-Mei Huang

Shu-Mei Huang

Coastal GIS Specialist, SC Sea Grant Consortium/College of Charleston
Shu-Mei Huang is the Coastal GIS (Geographic Information System) Specialist with S.C. Sea Grant Consortium and College of Charleston. As an extension specialist focusing on data visualization and spatial analysis, she designs interactive web tools to deliver science-based information... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright A, 4th Floor
  Applications and Impacts of GIS

10:30am CDT

Supporting Land Use and Conservation Planning with Geospatial Data and Tools
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright C, 4th Floor
These presentations highlight geospatial programs and platforms that support land use, conservation, and trail planning, emphasizing practical data products and workflows that translate into planning and stewardship outcomes. Together, they show how coastal land cover data, collaborative platforms, and trail economic impact modeling can inform resource management and public investment.
Keywords: land use land over, conservation, geospatial data support, GIS platforms, resource management

From Data to Dollars: Accessing and Applying the Nation’s First Public Trail Economic Impact Model
Steve Bert, MA, AICP, Program Manager, Economic & Policy Assessment, Institute for Transportation Research and Education (ITRE), Raleigh, NC – USA

NOAA’s New High-Resolution Coastal Land Cover
Lara O'Brien, Great Lakes Regional Geospatial Analyst, NOAA Office for Coastal Management, Chaska, MN – USA

Leveraging ArcGIS Hub Sites for Collaborative Conservation Work on National Forests
Christina Sabochick, Geospatial Analyst, National Forest Foundation, Arlington, VA - USA
Speakers
avatar for Steve Bert, MA, AICP

Steve Bert, MA, AICP

Program Manager, Economic/Policy Assessment, Institute for Transportation Research and Education (ITRE)
I am energized by work that connects data, policy, and people, and seeing how those connections can drive more sustainable and equitable outcomes. Over my career, I’ve worked at the intersection of economics, planning, and visualization, helping communities understand the tradeoffs... Read More →
avatar for Lara O'Brien

Lara O'Brien

Great Lakes Regional Geospatial Analyst, NOAA's Office for Coastal Management
Lara is a geospatial analyst with NOAA's Office for Coastal Management and is located in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. She provides technical support for GIS and remote sensing projects around the region, including coastal wetland and benthic habitat mapping, wild rice monitoring and... Read More →
avatar for Christina Sabochick

Christina Sabochick

Geospatial Analyst, National Forest Foundation

Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright C, 4th Floor
  Applications and Impacts of GIS

10:30am CDT

Esri Hands-On Learning Lab
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Pabst, 4th Floor

Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Pabst, 4th Floor
  Esri Learning Lab

10:30am CDT

Code, Automate, Elevate: Smarter GIS through Innovation
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright B, 4th Floor
Explore how coding, automation, and open-source solutions are transforming modern GIS operations. This session series highlights practical strategies for improving efficiency, scaling workflows, and expanding access to geospatial tools.

Keywords: GIS workflows, UAS, Web Tools, Python, ArcGIS Online

Stop Downloading CSVs: Building Automated GIS Data Workflows
Fiona Fox, GIS Analyst, Lightshift Energy, Arlington, VA – USA

Custom Web Tools for LiDAR Processing
Enoch Jones, P.E., Water Resource Engineer, Hansen, Allen & Luce, Willard, UT – USA

From Bottleneck to Breakthrough: Automating GIS Operations
Paul Petersen, GISP, Technology & Data Services Director, EDM International, Inc., Fort Collins, CO – USA

Open Your Stack: Building Flexible GIS Workflows with Open Source Tools
Chris Brannin, GIS Analyst/Programmer, Shoreland, Inc., Milwaukee, WI - USA
Speakers
avatar for Fiona Fox

Fiona Fox

GIS Analyst, Lightshift Energy
Fiona Fox is a GIS analyst specializing in spatial analysis and geospatial data science. She holds a master's degree in Geospatial Data Science and has professional experience applying GIS, python, and spatial data workflows to solve geographic problems. Fiona has also contributed... Read More →
avatar for Enoch Jones, P.E.

Enoch Jones, P.E.

Water Resource Engineer, Hansen, Allen & Luce
Enoch is a Civil Engineer at Hansen, Allen & Luce (HAL), experienced in ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, EPANET and other hydraulic and hydrologic modeling programs. Enoch’s responsibilities include creating and maintaining GIS maps, databases, and standards; creating and maintaining... Read More →
avatar for Paul Petersen, GISP

Paul Petersen, GISP

Director of Technology & Data Services, EDM International, Inc.
I am the GIS Manager at EDM International in Fort Collins, Colorado. EDM is an alliance of engineers, scientists, biologists and business people working to provide innovative solutions for the utility industry. I love running, craft beer, and the Green Bay Packers.
avatar for Chris Brannin, GISP

Chris Brannin, GISP

GIS Analyst/Programmer, Shoreland, Inc.

Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Wright B, 4th Floor
  Geospatial Technology and Methods

10:30am CDT

GeoSID Talk: Utility Network Journeys: Vendor Migrations, In-House Implementations, and Lessons from the Field
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Mitchell, 4th Floor
As utilities continue transitioning from ArcFM and ArcMap models to the ArcGIS Utility Network (UN), organizations are navigating different paths depending on resources, infrastructure, and operational needs. This session brings together three perspectives from municipal and utility organizations that are actively implementing or operating within the UN. Representatives from Wisconsin's City of De Pere, Kaukauna Utilities, and WPPI Energy will present their respective journeys - from vendor-led migrations to internally managed implementations. The City of De Pere will share their experience working with Avineon to migrate sanitary, stormwater, and water data to the UN. WPPI Energy will discuss their work supporting smaller electric utilities by transitioning using migration software. Kaukauna Utilities will provide the perspective of a mature UN implementation, highlighting five years of operational use for electric, along with internal migrations for water and communications.

Kristen Vincent, GISP, GIS Manager, City of De Pere, De Pere, WI
Kayla Coonen, Operational Technology Specialist, Kaukauna Utilities, WI
Tyler Caulum, GIS Manager, WPPI Energy, Sun Prairie, WI
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Vincent, GISP

Kristen Vincent, GISP

GIS Manager, City of De Peres
Kristen Vincent is the GIS Manager for the City of De Pere. She has been with the City for 7 years in various GIS roles, coming into her current position in 2023 where she oversees the City’s GIS Division and Drone Program. Kristen is active in the geospatial industry as a certified... Read More →
avatar for Tyler Caulum

Tyler Caulum

GIS Manager, WPPI Energy
Tyler Caulum has worked in GIS for 15 years. For the last two years, he has been the GIS Manager at WPPI Energy. Prior to that he has worked as both a contractor and for municipal government.
avatar for Kayla Coonen

Kayla Coonen

Operational Technology Specialist, Kaukauna Utilities
Kayla Coonen is an Operational Technology Specialist at Kaukauna Utilities (KU), where she has spent the past five years supporting GIS and other digital tools across electric, water, and fiber utilities. She holds a bachelor’s degree in geography from UW-Eau Claire and a master’s... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Mitchell, 4th Floor
  The GIS Profession

10:30am CDT

Panel: Data Governance and Time: Do you have a roads layer from 2000?
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Walker, 4th Floor
The panelists in this session will discuss how organizations handle the volume of GIS data and applications that need to be created, maintained and archived over time. The panel brings together map librarians and GIS professionals to discuss concerns, best practices, and possible futures for organizing, documenting, and preserving spatial data for ongoing use.

Keywords: Data Governance, Libraries & Archives, Historical GIS

Panelists
Matt Gerike, PhD, GISP, Virginia 9-1-1 & Geospatial Services, North Chesterfield, VA - USA
Other panelists - TBD
Speakers
avatar for Matt Gerike, PhD, GISP

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 →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Walker, 4th Floor
  The GIS Profession

10:30am CDT

Panel: Putting Yourself on the Map: Building a GIS Portfolio That Tells Your Story
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Juneau, 5th Floor
This panel discussion will explore practical approaches to building a compelling web-based portfolio that reflects both technical and non-technical GIS roles. Panelists will share real examples of portfolios they have developed in preparation for this session, highlighting how content and storytelling can vary depending on experience and career goals.

Keywords: Professional development, GIS Portfolio, Young professionals

Panelists
Brianna Zumhof, MA., Partner Strategy Manager, Eagleview, San Diego, CA - USA
Tito Ramirez, Manager of Geospatial Analytics & Insights, H-E-B, Austin, TX - USA
Olga Tambazidis, Demographer, Los Angeles Unified School District
Madeline Tripp, GIS & Public Engagement Specialist, VIEWSHED
Speakers
avatar for Brianna Zumhof, MA

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 →
avatar for Olga Tambazidis

Olga Tambazidis

Demographer, Los Angeles Unified School District
Olga Tambazidis is a GIS Technician II with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, where she uses spatial analysis and data visualization to enhance the visual interpretation of data and supporting decision-making to improve countywide health equity. With six years of... Read More →
avatar for Tito Ramirez

Tito Ramirez

Manager of Geospatial Analytics & Insights, H-E-B
Rodrigo "Tito" Ramirez Jr. Manager of Geospatial Analytics & Insights for H-E-B, the #1 grocer in the US based out of Texas. I serve as the vice-chair of the vanguard cabinet and have been in the industry for 6 years now.
avatar for Madeline Tripp

Madeline Tripp

GIS & Public Engagement Specialist, VIEWSHED
Madeline is a GIS & Public Engagement Specialist with VIEWSHED in Yarmouth, Maine. Her work involves collaborating with municipalities to develop online maps and interactive tools that make data approachable and facilitate decision-making. Madeline has a B.S. in Geography with a certificate... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Juneau, 5th Floor
  The GIS Profession

12:00pm CDT

Lunch on own
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
If your lunch hour is open, we highly recommend heading to the 3rd Street Market Hall, with tons of quick lunch options.
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
  Lunch

12:00pm CDT

GPN Chapter Leaders' Forum
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA
This working lunch meeting will serve as an opportunity for designated GPN chapter leaders to gather and discuss best practices, challenges, and successes. Limited to chapter leaders that have met minimum reporting requirements for 2026. 
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA
  Lunch & Learn

12:00pm CDT

Lunch & Learn
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA

Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA
  Lunch & Learn

12:00pm CDT

Lunch & Learn
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA

Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA
  Lunch & Learn

12:00pm CDT

WLIA Board of Directors Meeting
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA
Details TBD
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
TBA
  Lunch & Learn

1:30pm CDT

Addressing for 9-1-1: Foundations, National Standards, and What's Coming in 2027
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Wright A, 4th Floor
Attendees will leave this session with a solid understanding of address data standards and their role in supporting effective 9-1-1 systems. The session opens with an overview of NENA's Addressing for 9-1-1 document, covering governance, addressing authority policies, and the data maintenance practices that form the foundation for location validation and emergency response. It then broadens to the national landscape, examining recent changes to address data standards including NENA's GIS Data Model version 3, a comparison of address data standards across 38 states, and anticipated FGDC updates expected in 2027.

 Keywords: NENA, Addressing Standards, FGDC, Addressing, 911, NG911, Data Governance

NENA’s Addressing for 9-1-1 INF workgroup: Because saving lives starts with the right address
Deb Rozeboom, ENP, PMP, GISP, Client Success Manager, DATAMARK Technologies, Albany, OR - USA
Keri Brennan, GISP, ENP, Subject Matter Expert, GeoComm, Indianapolis, IN - USA
Matt Gerike, PhD, GISP, Geospatial Program Manager, Virginia Geographic Information Network (VGIN)

National and State Address Data Standards in the United States
Ed Wells, GISP, GIS Manager (retired), University Park, MD – USA

Wisconsin or NENA Standards: How our County Applies NG911 Standards - TBD
Speakers
avatar for Matt Gerike, PhD, GISP

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 →
avatar for Keri Brennan, GISP, ENP

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 →
avatar for Deb Rozeboom, ENP, PMP, GISP

Deb Rozeboom, ENP, PMP, GISP

Client Success Manager, DATAMARK Technologies
Deb Rozeboom is a public safety GIS expert with over 21 years of experience managing solutions and services for 9-1-1 and NG9-1-1 systems. She has a proven track record in project management, product management, solutions engineering, and strategic planning.  Her project experience... Read More →
avatar for Ed Wells, GISP

Ed Wells, GISP

GIS Manager (Retired), Retired

Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Wright A, 4th Floor
  Applications and Impacts of GIS

1:30pm CDT

Bringing GIS to Everyone: Tools, Portals, and Workflows for Better Local Decision-Making
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Wright C, 4th Floor
This session highlights practical approaches to making GIS more accessible and impactful for local decision-makers. Through real-world examples, a custom conservation suitability tool and an integrated municipal data portal, it demonstrates how complex spatial and operational data can be simplified into intuitive, user-friendly applications. Attendees will gain insights into improving transparency, supporting sustainability goals, and empowering both staff and community stakeholders with better tools for informed decision-making.
Keywords: Local government, stakeholder engagement, conservation, interactive applications


Informed Decision Making: Tree Canopy and Dashboards
Kassandra Hernandez-Galvan, Asset Management Analyst, City of Warrenville, Warrenville, IL – USA
Tripp Corbin, MCP, GISP, Senior GIS Professional, Consultant, and Instructor, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions LLC, Dacula, GA - USA

Creating an Interactive Conservation Scorecard Application
Madeline Tripp, GIS & Public Engagement Specialist, VIEWSHED, Portland, ME - USA

Speakers
avatar for Kassandra Hernandez-Galvan

Kassandra Hernandez-Galvan

Asset Management Analyst, City of Warrenville
Kassandra Hernandez-Galvan is an Asset Management Analyst with the City of Warrenville, where she supports data-driven decision-making for infrastructure and public works operations. She serves as the administrator for VUEWorks and plays a key role in integrating enterprise resource... Read More →
avatar for Tripp Corbin, MCP, GISP

Tripp Corbin, MCP, GISP

Senior GIS Professional/Consultant/Instructor, Cultivate Geospatial Solutions LLC
Tripp is a Senior GIS Professional, Consultant and Instructor for Cultivate Geospatial. With over 28 years of experience, he is a recognized industry expert and leader. Tripp holds multiple GIS and IT certifications including the GISP, severl Esri technical certifications, and more... Read More →
avatar for Madeline Tripp

Madeline Tripp

GIS & Public Engagement Specialist, VIEWSHED
Madeline is a GIS & Public Engagement Specialist with VIEWSHED in Yarmouth, Maine. Her work involves collaborating with municipalities to develop online maps and interactive tools that make data approachable and facilitate decision-making. Madeline has a B.S. in Geography with a certificate... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Wright C, 4th Floor
  Applications and Impacts of GIS

1:30pm CDT

From Data to Decisions: Integrating Imagery, Cloud Workflows, and Spatial Analytics
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Walker, 4th Floor
This session series highlights innovative approaches to measuring urban park accessibility, optimizing cloud-based imagery workflows for distributed teams, and applying lidar data to solve real-world planning, infrastructure, and conservation challenges.

Keywords: Accessibility Modeling, Spatial Analysis, Cloud Imagery, lidar, resiliency

Evaluating Methodological Approaches to Urban Park Accessibility: A Comparative Analysis of Statistical, Network-Based, and Gravity Measures in Quincy, Illinois
Arup Ratan Devnath, Graduate Assistant, Western Illinois University GIS Center, Macomb, IL – USA

Cache Me if You Can: Smarter Cloud Imagery for Distributed Teams
Laura Wilson, PMP, Partner Manager, ROK Technologies, Mount Pleasant, SC - USA

How to Apply your Lidar for the field
Adam Derringer, GISP, Senior Project Manager, Ayres Associates, Madison, WI - USA
Speakers
avatar for Arup Ratan Devnath

Arup Ratan Devnath

Graduate Assistant, Western Illinois University GIS Center
regional planning, and disaster resilience. With over nine years of experience across Bangladesh and the United States, I integrate geospatial technologies with sustainable development and data-driven planning. I am currently pursuing an MSc in GIScience and Geoenvironment at Western... Read More →
avatar for Laura Wilson, PMP

Laura Wilson, PMP

Partner Manager, ROK Technologies
At ROK Technologies, our sole focus is architecting, deploying and managing the ArcGIS® Enterprise suite and desktop applications in cloud environments. Recognized as an Esri Platinum and Cloud Specialty Partner, our AWS, Azure, and Esri team of experts bring extensive knowledge... Read More →
avatar for Adam Derringer, GISP

Adam Derringer, GISP

Senior Project Manager, Ayres Associates
Bio:
Adam Derringer has over 25 years of experience consulting in the geospatial industry and is an Esri SAG award winner. He works to help local, state, and federal stakeholders collaborate, properly plan for, and apply appropriate GIS and Remote Sensing technology for innovative solutio... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Walker, 4th Floor
  Applications and Impacts of GIS

1:30pm CDT

Resting Places & Data Spaces: GIS in Cemeteries, Communities, and Commemoration
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Mitchell, 4th Floor
From backyard burials to digitally mapped legacies, this session explores how GIS is reshaping the way we document, manage, and honor the spaces of the dead. Through three distinct but interconnected projects, presenters will share how modern tools like Survey123, Experience Builder, and municipal GIS systems are bringing new visibility and structure to cemeteries, private burial sites, and veterans’ graves.

But this work isn’t just technical - it’s deeply human. Attendees will hear how unexpected challenges, community partnerships, and evolving policies shaped each project, revealing the sometimes messy, emotional, and surprising realities behind the data. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of private land burials, mobilizing volunteers to honor veterans, or helping towns bring order to aging cemetery records, this session highlights how GIS professionals act as stewards of both data and memory.

Expect practical lessons, candid reflections, and a reminder that even in the most grounded datasets… there are stories waiting to surface.

Keywords: Cemetery Management, Commemoration, Community Engagement, Digital Stewardship, GIS Applications or GIS Databases

Modernization and Mishaps in Private Burials
Monique Hassman, MS, PhD., GIS Coordinator/Land Information Officer, Vernon County Land Information Office, Viroqua, WI – USA

Using Community Engagement and GIS to Honor Washington County Veterans
Michael Vander Sanden, GISP, GIS Coordinator, Washington County, West Bend, WI – USA

Cemeteries: Helping towns manage and provide access
Rosemary Mosher, GIS Specialist, VIEWSHED, Yarmouth, ME – USA
Judy Colby-George, GISP, Principal, VIEWSHED, Yarmouth, ME - USA
Speakers
avatar for Monique Hassman, MS, PhD

Monique Hassman, MS, PhD

GIS Coordinator/Land Information Officer, Vernon County Land Information Office
Monique Hassman serves as the GIS Coordinator and Land Information Officer for Vernon County’s Land Information Office. Trained as an anthropologist, she completed her graduate studies and earned a GIS certificate from UW–Milwaukee. Her work is driven by a deep interest in human... Read More →
avatar for Michael Vander Sanden, GISP

Michael Vander Sanden, GISP

GIS Coordinator, Washington County
Michael is the GIS Coordinator at Washington County. With nearly 25 years at the county, he's been involved in developing the program from its infancy. Current primary responsibilities include ArcGIS Enterprise and database management, application development and overseeing the drone... Read More →
avatar for Judy Colby-George, GISP

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 →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Mitchell, 4th Floor
  Applications and Impacts of GIS

1:30pm CDT

Esri Hands-On Learning Lab
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Pabst, 4th Floor

Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Pabst, 4th Floor
  Esri Learning Lab

1:30pm CDT

Building Winning GIS Teams: From Individual Growth to Scalable Impact
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Juneau, 5th Floor
High-performing GIS programs aren’t just built on technology, they’re built on people, strategy, and the ability to scale impact beyond the core team. This session brings together three perspectives on what it takes to create and sustain successful GIS teams in today’s evolving landscape.

We’ll start at the individual level, exploring how participation in professional communities like the Esri Young Professionals Network and the Geospatial Professional Network helps emerging professionals build skills, expand networks, and accelerate career growth. From there, we shift to the manager’s perspective, introducing a “Moneyball”-inspired approach to assembling and developing a high-performing GIS team by recognizing talent, maximizing strengths, and making strategic people decisions. Finally, we’ll see how these principles come together in practice, with a real-world example of scaling GIS impact across hundreds of events by empowering non-GIS staff with self-service mapping tools.

Together, these presentations tell a cohesive story: when individuals grow, teams strengthen and when teams are designed well, their impact can scale far beyond their size.

Keywords: Professional Development, Networking, Mentoring, Team, Growth, Building to Scale

Turning Community Participation into Career Momentum
Logan Stevens, ArcGIS Enterprise Release Engineer/Esri YPN Advisory Board Member, Esri, Charlotte, NC - USA
Marcus Seepersad, Brand Marketing Specialist, Esri, Redlands, CA - USA

A GIS Manager's Team Development - the Moneyball Approach
Greg Babinski, MA, GISP, EthicalGEO Fellow, GIS Management Consultant, GIS Management Consulting Services LLC, Edmonds, WA – USA

Scaling Event Maps Without Scaling the GIS Team
Nathan Holman, Geospatial Solutions Administrator, American Cancer Society, Decatur, GA - USA


Speakers
avatar for Logan Stevens

Logan Stevens

ArcGIS Enterprise Release Engineer, Esri

avatar for Marcus Seepersad

Marcus Seepersad

Brand Marketing Specialist, Esri

avatar for Greg Babinski, MA, GISP, EthicalGEO Fellow

Greg Babinski, MA, GISP, EthicalGEO Fellow

GIS Management Consultant, GIS Management Consulting Services LLC
Greg Babinski is a GIS management consultant and founder of GIS Management Consulting Services LLC and the GIS Management Academy™, located in Edmonds, Washington. Between 1998 and 2021 he served as GIS Manager, GIS Finance Manager, and GIS Marketing & Business Development Manager... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Holman

Nathan Holman

Geospatial Solutions Administrator, American Cancer Society
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Juneau, 5th Floor
  The GIS Profession

1:30pm CDT

Driving Effective Data Governance at the Enterprise Level
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Wright B, 4th Floor
In order to drive effective data governance, policy must balance breadth and specificity, move quickly to prevent impending critical operations, and ensure that organization is protected from both a security and trust perspective. Attend this session to learn how to build data governance and cybersecurity frameworks that start small and can effectively navigate legacy systems and existing policies.

Keywords: Leadership, Data, Governance, Enterprise, Cybersecurity

​Mapping Power and Responsibility: Governance and Ethical Risk in GIS-Based
Abdulkader Murad, Ph.D., Professor, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Khuloud Ali, Dr., Assistant Professor, IMAGINE Studios

Enterprise and Data Governance
Wendy Peloquin, GISP, LAVM, Director of Commercial Sales Operations, Avineon, Jacksonville, FL - USA

Securing the Map: A Director's Framework for GIS Cybersecurity in Government
John Nolte, GISP, Director of Enterprise IT, Denver Water, Denver, CO - USA
Speakers
avatar for Abdulkader Murad, Ph.D.

Abdulkader Murad, Ph.D.

Professor, King Abdulaziz University
Abdulkader A. Murad is a Fallow at the Charted Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors, FCInstCES, and a member of URISA. Currently, he is a Professor of GIS at King AbdulAziz University, Previous to this, he was is the GIS Advisor for the Vice President for projects in king AbdulAziz... Read More →
avatar for Khuloud Ali, PhD

Khuloud Ali, PhD

Assistant Professor, IMAGINE Studios
Dr. Khuloud Ali is the co-founder of IMAGINE Studios (Intelligent Modeling for Architecture & Green Interactive Net-Zero Engineering Lab, Architecture Studio Delivering Applied Research, Design, Drafting, Simulation, and Visualization; ROR: 051dks184) and currently leads its Research... Read More →
avatar for Wendy Peloquin, GISP

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 →
avatar for John Nolte, GISP

John Nolte, GISP

Director of Enterprise IT, Denver Water
John M. Nolte, GISP is the GIS Manager of Denver Water's Administrative Services GIS. He has been in the industry for nearly 30 years and has worked in various positions. He is a board member of URISA International and an instructor for the GIS Leadership Academy. He lives in Denver... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Wright B, 4th Floor
  The GIS Profession

2:30pm CDT

Coffee Break & Raffle Drawings in Exhibit Hall
Wednesday October 14, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level
Enjoy coffee and raffle drawings in the Exhibit Hall as we bring the Exhibit Hall to a close in the Empire Ballroom (Lobby Level).
Wednesday October 14, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Empire Ballroom, Lobby Level
  Coffee Break

3:30pm CDT

Wisconsin's WLIP: A Blueprint for the NSDI?
Wednesday October 14, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor
Wisconsin has had great success with their Wisconsin Land Information Program (WLIP).  This program incentivizes, standardizes, and rolls up several foundational thematic data sets, from all 72 counties into products available for in-state and broader audiences. 

The featured panelists in this session will discuss if this might be a model that is adaptable for national use - examining what makes it work, and what could be scalability and administrative challenges

 Keywords: Local Data; State Data, National Themes, WLIP, NSDI

Panelists:
Curtis Pulford, Enterprise GIS Manager, City of Phoenix
Megan Compton, Senior NSDI Advisor, FGDC
Mike Friis, Director, Resource Policy Bureau, WI Department of Administration
Howard Veregin, State Cartographer, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Eric Damkot, Director of GIS/Land Information Officer, Washington County
Moderators
avatar for Matt Gerike, PhD, GISP

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 →
Speakers
avatar for Curtis Pulford

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 →
avatar for Megan Compton

Megan Compton

Senior NSDI Advisor, Federal Geographic Data Committee
As a leader in geospatial and tech, I’m driving the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI)—basically, I’m mapping the future (literally). I manage the National Geospatial Advisory Committee (NGAC), guiding our brilliant members to tackle complex geospatial challenges, while... Read More →
avatar for Mic​hael Friis

Mic​hael Friis

Director, Resource Policy Bureau, Wisconsin Department of Administration

avatar for Howard Veregin

Howard Veregin

Wisconsin State Cartographer, University of Wisconsin, Madison
Forty years of experience in digital cartography and GIS (Geographic Information Systems). PhD in Geography from UC Santa Barbara. Nearly 10 years of experience as a university professor, with teaching and research interests in cartography and GIS. Nearly 10 years of experience directing... Read More →
avatar for Eric Damkot

Eric Damkot

Director of GIS/Land Information Officer, Wisconsin Land Information Association
Eric is a UWGB alum where he majored in biology and environmental sciences. After graduation he joined a GIS program at Washington County that was in its infancy and for the past 25+ years has been involved in nearly all aspects of the county’s growing GIS program. Eric is a WLIA... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor
  Keynote Address

4:30pm CDT

GIS-Pro 2026 IGNITE
Wednesday October 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor
Get ready for rapid-fire presentations that pack big ideas into bite-sized, entertaining packages! Our Ignite session brings together creative minds in GIS for lightning-fast talks that will have you laughing, learning, and maybe groaning at a few well-placed puns and dad jokes along the way.

Expect diverse topics and fresh perspectives delivered in this energetic, fast-paced format. Our moderator will keep things lively with humor between presentations, while speakers share innovative approaches, creative solutions, and inspiring insights from across the geospatial community. These quick talks prove that big ideas don't always need big time slots—sometimes the most memorable learning happens in just a few focused minutes.

Fair warning: you might find yourself both educated and entertained, with a few eye-rolls thrown in for good measure!

 Survey123 Recruit Test
Nicole Dogan, GISP, Senior GIS Analyst, Town of Flower Mound, Flower Mound, TX – USA

Fire Risk Monitoring Workflow
Zhuba Goldenlamb, M.S. in GIS (In Progress), GIS Certificate, Environmental Technician, California State University Long Beach, Los Angeles, CA – USA

It’s a Match: Finding your Perfect GIS Mentor
Hannah Walters, GIS Analyst, Denver Water, Denver, CO – USA

 From CAD to GIS: Automating Pavement Data Workflows with FME 
Katie Godding, GISP, GIS Analyst, Terracon, Stoughton, WI - USA 

Volunteer with GPN
Adam Ratliff, GIS Tech II, City of Las Cruces, New Mexico

Quirky Wisconsin 
Colter Sikora, GISP, GIS Lead, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, Madison, WI

Summary of 2025-26 GIS Management Survey
Peter Croswell, PMP, GISP, CMS, President, Croswell-Schulte IT Consultants, Frankfort, KY – USA
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Dogan, GISP, MS

Nicole Dogan, GISP, MS

Senior GIS Analyst, Town of Flower Mound
Nicole has a Masters in Geographic Information Sciences from the University of Texas in Dallas, along with her GISP Certification. She works for the Town of Flower Mound and has for the past 23 years, as a GIS Technician, GIS Manager and Senior GIS Analyst. There she works with all... Read More →
avatar for Zhuba Goldenlamb

Zhuba Goldenlamb

Environmental Technician, California State University Long Beach
Began mapping estuaries in Mexico and a college creek restoration project during my B.S. studies. Now completing an M.S. in GIS while applying remote sensing to track fire ecology and restoration recovery in Joshua Tree National Park.
avatar for Hannah Walters

Hannah Walters

GIS Analyst, Denver Water
Hannah Walters is a GIS Analyst for Denver Water in Colorado, where her focus is in GIS applications for watershed analysis. She is the incoming chair of the Vanguard Cabinet and Vice President of the Rocky Mountain chapter of GPN. Hannah graduated from the University of Colorado... Read More →
avatar for Katie Godding, GISP

Katie Godding, GISP

GIS Analyst, Terracon
I studied GIS and Geography at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse and the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater from 2011–2015. After graduating, I worked briefly in geospatial consulting before spending eight years with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. During... Read More →
avatar for Colter Sikora, GISP

Colter Sikora, GISP

GIS Lead, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Colter Sikora is the GIS Lead for Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.
avatar for Adam Ratliff

Adam Ratliff

GIS Tech II, City of Las Cruces
Adam Ratliff is a GIS Tech II with Las Cruces Utilities, where he helps provide accurate and accessible spatial data to support city operations and planning. His work focuses on maintaining reliable geospatial information, improving data workflows, and supporting teams that rely on... Read More →
avatar for Peter Croswell, PMP, GISP, CMS

Peter Croswell, PMP, GISP, CMS

President, Croswell-Schulte IT Consultants
Mr. Croswell is the President and lead consultant of Croswell-Schulte Information Technology Consultants. He is an expert in information technology and GIS implementation and management with over 40 years experience as an IT and GIS practitioner, program manager, and an IT/GIS consultant... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Crystal Ballroom, 5th Floor
  Ignite

6:00pm CDT

GIS-Pro 2026 Evening Social at New Fashioned
Wednesday October 14, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
The New Old Fashioned
Join us for an evening of networking, fun, and Milwaukee flavor at The New Fashioned in the Deer District. This unique venue blends local food, drinks, and interactive experiences—including games like HyperBowling, dartball, and more—for a memorable night out.
Connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed, high-energy setting while enjoying a taste of Wisconsin traditions with a modern twist. From local beverages to interactive entertainment, this social event is the perfect opportunity to unwind and build connections beyond the conference.

Please wear your conference badge for entry.
Wednesday October 14, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
The New Old Fashioned 1122 N. Vel R. Phillips Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53203
  Networking
 

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