In this episode of "Mapping the Conversations," host Valrie Grant sits down with geospatial industry luminary Dr. Zaffar Mohamed-Ghouse to explore the unchartered potentials of location intelligence and its vital role in harmonizing humanity's relationship with Earth. Their dialogue orbits around the transformative impacts and burgeoning innovations in the field of geospatial technology. This conversation delves into Dr. Zaffar's rich background, his professional journey, and his leadership in global geospatial initiatives like the UN-GGIM.

Dr. Zaffar elucidates the significance of the UN-GGIM's mission, which serves as the converging platform for member states to collaborate on global geospatial issues. The episode highlights the critical role of the private sector in advancing geospatial technology's reach and capabilities. Dr. Zaffar shares insight into the collaborative opportunities available within the UN-GGIM Private Sector Network, and their contribution to global sustainability efforts, including climate change mitigation and disaster recovery.

About The Guest

Prof. Dr. Zaffar Sadiq Mohamed-Ghouse is a second-generation geospatial professional with a profound lineage in the geospatial industry, tracing his interest back to his father's work in satellite imagery for agricultural applications. With a solid foundation in computer science engineering and specialization in remote sensing, Dr. Zaffar has amassed extensive experience, particularly in India with the Institute of Remote Sensing. His career and expertise are marked by his dedication to problem-solving, social transformation through technology, and significant contributions to rural development through geospatial information systems. He is currently recognized for his leadership roles, including serving as the chair of the UN-GGIM (United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management) Private Sector Network.

Key Takeaways

1. Dr. Zaffar Sadiq Mohamed-Ghouse's career in the geospatial industry was influenced by his father's work in agriculture using remote sensing technology.

2. The UN-GGIM serves as a global forum for member states to discuss and collaborate on geospatial information management issues.

3. The UN-GGIM Private Sector Network, chaired by Dr. Zaffar, is a pivotal platform for companies to engage with and support the UN-GGIM's objectives.

4. There is an emphasis on responsible governance in the geospatial industry, particularly with regards to climate change, sustainability, and the Fifth Industrial Revolution.

5. Collaborative projects and innovative approaches such as GeoAI are essential for advancing the field and tackling global challenges.

Quotes

1. "The attraction for me on this particular field is more what I enjoy is problem solving and trying to take this technology to rural areas."

2. "Private sector are the community that is able to scale up any sort of solutions that the industry is looking for."

3. "It's about nation-building. It is about building the world. And everyone has a role in order to build their respective nations being in government, private academia or non-governmental organization."

4. "We as geospatial professionals [are] trying to bring [an] enduring impact on developing a sustainable world."

In this stimulating episode of "Mapping the Conversations," host Valrie Grant is joined by Dr. Rosario Casanova, a recognized authority in the field of geospatial science and education. Dr. Casanova sheds light on the transformative impact of geospatial technology and the critical role of the UN-GGIM Americas Academic Network in advancing location intelligence. The conversation delves into the various hats Rosario wears, particularly focusing on her influential contributions as the president of the UN-GGIM Academic Network for the Americas.

Through the insightful discussion with Dr. Casanova, we uncover the diverse goals and initiatives of the Academic Network, which plays a fundamental role in supporting UN-GGIM Americas through education, research, and collaboration among academia. With a comprehensive view, Rosario illustrates how academia shapes strategies and policies, addresses unique challenges and opportunities in the Americas, and embarks on significant projects to empower geospatial communities.

About The Guest

Dr. Rosario Casanova is a passionate educator and an influential figure in the geospatial industry. With a rich academic background, she currently presides as the President of the United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM) Academic Network for the Americas. Her journey began with an inclination towards maps and spatial thinking, which led her to embrace a career in geospatial engineering and academia. Rosario holds expertise in photogrammetry, GIS, geomatics, and urban planning. She's actively involved in fostering knowledge-sharing among research centers and universities across the Americas, and she's also engaged with professional bodies like the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG).

Key Takeaways

1. UN-GGIM Americas Academic Network is pivotal in fostering geospatial technology knowledge and professional development, influencing policies and strategies across the Americas.

2. The UN-GGIM Academic Network for the Americas serves as an interdisciplinary platform, promoting education, sharing research, and enhancing collaboration among academic institutions.

3. Key projects include exploring the ethical use of geographic information, integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into educational curricula, and nurturing partnerships between academia and the private sector.

4. Encouraging diversity, inclusion, and continuous education in geospatial professions is imperative for developing a robust and relevant workforce.

5. Emerging trends in the geospatial industry, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Cubes, and Digital Twins, are shaping the future of the field.

Quotes

1. "Knowledge is the key for the success or failure of our society."

2. "For me, our [task] should be including education on ethical, soft skills... and also continuing education."

3. "The geographical science world is something that you just have to start going and then it will catch you."

In this episode of "Mapping the Conversations," Valrie Grant delves into the transformative powers of geospatial technology with Mark Reichardt, a luminary in the field. Their exchange sheds light on the groundbreaking advancements that are shaping our understanding and interaction with the world around us. Reichardt's in-depth experience lends a unique perspective on the evolution of the geospatial industry and its future potential.

Mark provides insightful commentary on the current trends in geospatial technology, emphasizing the impact of analytics, AI, machine learning, and enhanced positioning. Furthermore, he discusses how these technological strides are empowering our responses to global challenges such as climate change. Mark also shares some career advice for aspiring geospatial professionals, emphasizing the importance of staying agile and informed to adapt to rapid technological changes.

About The Guest

Mark Reichardt is a prominent figure in the geospatial industry, with a storied career that spans over two decades. Having served as the president and CEO of the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC), Mark has been instrumental in advancing digital mapping and technology modernization programs, particularly with the U.S. government. His contributions have been vital in the integration of systems through the establishment of open standards. Mark has also worked with the Federal Geographic Data Committee to develop international programs for spatial data infrastructure, and has recently taken on the role of Senior Consultant with Geospatial World.

Key Takeaways

1. AI, machine learning, and GPUs are revolutionizing our ability to work with the voluminous geospatial data being generated daily.

2. The concept of digital twins and advanced lidar imaging are emerging as game-changing trends for creating accurate models of the natural and engineered environments.

3. Mark opines that the geospatial community should prioritize addressing climate change through improved policy and technology applications.

4. Geospatial World plays a pivotal role in facilitating discussions among industry professionals, influencing public policy, and fostering collaborations within the industry.

5. Continuous learning and proactive networking are crucial for those interested in building a career in geospatial technology.

Quotes

1. "Remain informed and agile to technology trends because they're going to be both beneficial and disruptive, and adaptation is going to be critical." - Mark Reichardt

2. "I see the future of geospatial as fully integrated with our information society, where most everything is empowered by place and time." - Mark Reichardt

3. "Climate change...it's an inescapable reality that we're dealing with." - Mark Reichardt

4. "AI... We've all been dreaming of the potential for AI to help us." - Mark Reichardt

5. "Don't be shy, be part of the discussion and that'll help you find your pathway." - Mark Reichardt

Sonja Betschart, co-founder of We Robotics and the Flying Labs network, discusses the power of geospatial technology and drones for social good. She shares her journey and the challenges she faced in creating a network of local experts in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean and  Asia-Pacific. Sonja emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships in driving positive change and highlights the role of technology as a tool for community engagement and conversation. She also discusses the impact of geospatial technology in creating sustainable and resilient communities. Overall, Sonja's message is to harness the power of local expertise and empower communities through technology.

About The Guest

Sonja, an Ashoka Fellow and seasoned change agent, serves as the co-founder and co-pilot at We Robotics, bringing a wealth of experience from diverse sectors, including non-profit, start-ups, and multinationals. With strategic guidance and proven methods, she empowers ventures to transform ideas into impactful organizations. Passionate about the "Who" and "How" in the Tech for Good sector, Sonja focuses on equitable access to technologies and creating sustainable value inclusively. Holding Master degrees in Marketing and SME Management, Sonja is also skilled in Design Thinking, Project Management, and Principled Negotiation. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Women in Social Enterprise in 2023, she has been elected as one of Switzerland's 100 Digital Shapers, earning a place in the Hall of Fame in 2022.

Key Takeaways

1. Geospatial technology, particularly drones, allows communities to create their own data and make better decisions.

2. Collaboration and partnerships are essential for driving innovation and creating sustainable solutions.

3. Technology should be designed with the needs and perspectives of local communities in mind.

4. The power of storytelling can change mindsets and advocate for the use of technology for social good.

Quotes

1. "Alone we go fast, together we go far."

2. "Technology is never the solution, but it can add to a solution."

3. "The highest expertise lies at the grassroots and local community level."

4. "Let's together think about the power of local expertise."

Learn more about the Flying Labs Network at ⁠Home - Flying Labs⁠

Dr. Nadine Alameh, inaugural Executive Director of the Taylor Geospatial Institute, discusses the institute's mission to leverage geospatial technology to solve global problems. She highlights the importance of collaboration and the need to build a research collaborative among the consortium members and the wider geospatial community. Dr. Alameh also emphasizes the institute's focus on agriculture, food security, health, and national security, and the potential impact of geospatial science on these areas. She shares her excitement about the upcoming projects and initiatives at the institute and encourages aspiring geospatial professionals to be curious, fearless, and assertive in their pursuit of a career in the field.

About The Guest

Dr. Nadine Alameh is the inaugural Executive Director of the Taylor Geospatial Institute. With a background in computer engineering and a passion for geospatial technology, Dr. Alameh has dedicated her career to advancing the field of geospatial science. She has worked at NASA and the Open Geospatial Consortium, and now leads the Taylor Geospatial Institute, where she focuses on building a research collaborative, developing a research infrastructure, preparing the next generation of geospatial scientists, and facilitating the commercialization of geospatial technologies.

Key Takeaways

1. The Taylor Geospatial Institute aims to be the partner of choice for geospatial science, collaborating with various industries to solve global problems.

2. The institute focuses on agriculture, food security, health, and national security, leveraging geospatial technology to make a positive impact in these areas.

3. Collaboration and building a research collaborative are key priorities for the institute, fostering partnerships with industry and other organizations.

4. The institute is hiring 20 geospatial researchers to support its research initiatives and expand its expertise in various fields.

5. The next big things in geospatial science include digital twins, AI, cloud-native geospatial technology, and scaling geospatial solutions for global impact.

Quotes

1. "Geospatial is great. If there's one message out of this, the path is unique." - Dr. Nadine Alameh

2. "We want to be the partner of choice for geospatial, as anybody is trying to do their thing, whether it's changing public health, whether it's changing the transportation system in the US, whether it's changing the underground infrastructure." - Dr. Nadine Alameh

3. "The longer I stay in the field, the more I see the opportunities and the more I appreciate it." - Dr. Nadine Alameh

Learn more about TGI and the opportunities at ⁠https://taylorgeospatial.org/⁠ 

Barbara Ryan joins Valrie Grant in a conversation about how the geospatial industry is shaping the geospatial conversation. They discuss the significance of the WGIC's new brand and its representation of the geospatial industry. Barbara highlights the evolution of the geospatial conversation, emphasizing the need for integration and collaboration across different disciplines. She also discusses the challenges and opportunities the industry faces, including the importance of diversity and inclusivity. Barbara shares insights into WGIC's initiatives and collaborations, such as their work on geospatial public-private partnerships and the metaverse. She emphasizes the role of industry in advocating for the sector and driving innovation. Barbara concludes by discussing the future of the geospatial conversation and the need for open-mindedness, expanded partnerships, and increased diversity in the industry.

About The Guest

Barbara Ryan is the Executive Director at the World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC). With a background in the geospatial industry, she has worked with organizations such as the US Geological Survey, the World Meteorological Organization, and the Open Earth Observations. Barbara has also served on various boards and advisory committees, including the Jane Goodall Institute.

Key Takeaways

1. The WGIC's rebranding represents the geospatial industry's presence in various domains, including the atmosphere, land, oceans, underground, and the built environment.

2. The geospatial conversation has evolved to recognize the need for integration and collaboration across different disciplines.

3. The industry faces challenges in engaging with international governance mechanisms, fostering collaboration between academia and industry, and promoting diversity and inclusion.

4. The geospatial industry has the opportunity to advocate for its role in society, shape policy discussions, and create business opportunities.

5. The future of the geospatial conversation lies in the development of spatial digital twins, the metaverse, and increased collaboration and interoperability among industry players.

For more information on WGIC and to access the reports mentioned in this episode visit www.wgicouncil.org 

Dr. Earl Edwards discusses the transformative potential of low-cost drones in the field of geospatial technology. He highlights the advancements and innovations in low-cost drone technology that have made them more accessible and valuable for geospatial data collection. Dr. Edwards also explores the various use cases of low-cost drones, such as mapping, surveying, monitoring, and disaster management. He emphasizes the importance of software and data processing in maximizing the value of the data collected with drones. Dr. Edwards provides advice and considerations for individuals and organizations interested in integrating low-cost drones into their geospatial projects. He concludes by discussing the future trends and advancements in low-cost drone technology, including artificial intelligence, swarming technology, and beyond visual line of sight operations.

About The Guest

Dr. Earl Edwards is a lecturer in the Geospatial Information Sciences Program and Coordinator of the MSc in Geoinformatics at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine in Trinidad. With over 25 years of experience in the geospatial field, Dr. Edwards has expertise in areas such as GNSS, GIS, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence for geospatial data analysis.

Key Takeaways

1. Low-cost drones have undergone significant advancements, including miniaturization, improved battery life, enhanced GNSS, and higher-resolution imaging technology.

2. Low-cost drones have versatile applications in real-time mapping, 3D modeling, land surveying, monitoring, agriculture, environmental conservation, disaster management, urban planning, and infrastructure management.

3. Common challenges and limitations of low-cost drones include limited battery life, data accuracy, payload capacity, regulatory constraints, operational complexity, and security concerns.

4. Software and data processing play a crucial role in maximizing the value of drone-collected data, including flight planning, real-time monitoring and control, autonomous navigation, data integration and visualization, and data sharing.

5. Future trends in low-cost drone technology include the use of artificial intelligence, swarming technology, more efficient energy solutions, improved sensor technology, beyond visual line of sight operations, advancements in computing power and edge computing, and the availability of open-source software for drone processing and data analysis.

Valrie Grant interviews Albert H. Anoubon Momo, Vice President of Emerging Markets and Funded Projects at Trimble, about his journey in the geospatial industry and his involvement in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Albert discusses the lack of diversity in the industry and the pivotal moment when Trimble's CEO took a stance on DEI. He shares his role in promoting DEI within Trimble, his involvement with organizations like the National Society of Black Engineers and Cadasta, and his work with the World Geospatial Industry Council. Albert emphasizes the importance of diverse representation in shaping the future of geospatial technology and driving innovation. He also highlights the challenges the industry still faces and the need for intentional actions to recruit, retain, and promote diverse talent. Albert encourages collaboration across different sectors and stakeholder groups to create a more holistic and sustainable DEI initiative. He concludes by urging the industry to keep pushing for progress and for the leadership of geospatial companies to reflect the diversity of the countries they operate in.

About The Guest

Albert H. Anoubon Momo is the Vice President of Emerging Markets and Funded Projects at Trimble. He is also the Chair of the Board at Cadasta Foundation and the Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee at the World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC). Albert is a passionate advocate for DEI in the geospatial industry and has been actively involved in promoting diversity and inclusion both within Trimble and in the broader geospatial community.

Key Takeaways

1. Lack of diversity and representation in the geospatial industry is a significant challenge that needs to be addressed.

2. Intentional efforts are required to recruit, retain, and promote diverse talent in the industry.

3. Creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion.

4. Collaboration across different sectors and stakeholder groups can contribute to more holistic and sustainable DEI initiatives.

5. The geospatial industry needs to learn from other sectors that have made progress in DEI, such as agriculture and land administration.

* For more information on DEI in the geospatial industry take a look at the WGIC Report on Leadership Diversity in the Geospatial Industry https://wgicouncil.org/leadership-diversity-in-geospatial-industry-a-wgic-perspective/ that Albert mentioned.

In this episode, host Valrie Grant interviews Ms. Deirdre Bishop, Chief of the Geography Division of the US Census Bureau and Chair of the high-level group on the UN-IGIF. They discuss the United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (UN-IGIF) and its impact on global geospatial information management. Ms. Bishop shares her background in geospatial information management and how she became involved with the UN-IGIF. She explains the objectives and components of the UN-IGIF and how it differs from other geospatial frameworks. Ms. Bishop also discusses the challenges and rewards of implementing the UN-IGIF and provides advice for those interested in getting involved in the field of geospatial technology.

About The Guest

Ms. Deirdre Bishop is the Chief of the Geography Division of the US Census Bureau. She also serves as the President of the US National Section of the Pan-American Institute of Geography and History and chairs the high-level group on the UN-IGIF (United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework). With over 20 years of experience in geospatial information management, Ms. Bishop has made significant contributions to the field and is a trailblazer in the global geospatial community.

Key Takeaways

1. The UN-IGIF is a comprehensive framework that helps countries develop and strengthen geospatial information management.

2. The UN-IGIF integrates statistical and geographic information to provide decision-makers with valuable tools for addressing global challenges.

3. Implementation of the UN-IGIF varies depending on each country's starting point, but all countries can benefit from its guidance.

4. The UN-IGIF contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals by providing a foundation for reporting on progress and identifying areas for action.

5. The high-level group on the UN-IGIF focuses on communication, capacity development, and sustainable funding to support the implementation of the framework.

More information on the UN-IGIF can be found at UNSD — UN-GGIM.

In this episode, host Valrie Grant engages in a conversation with Paloma Merodio Gómez, Co-chair of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UNGGIM). They delve into the critical role of geospatial technology in addressing global challenges, with a particular focus on UNGGIM's initiatives and policies.

About The Guest:

Episode Summary:

Key Takeaways:

1. UNGGIM's mission is to provide leadership in coordinating, maintaining, and leveraging geospatial information for sustainable development.

2. Geospatial information is essential for monitoring progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

3. UNGGIM supports disaster management, climate change assessment, urban planning, and land administration through geospatial information.

4. Regional committees and partnerships with the private sector and academic institutions enhance geospatial information management.

5. Geospatial data is crucial for decision-making and addressing global challenges.