Connect education to real-world outcomes
Explore the ways institutions are aligning programs with workforce needs and preparing students with in-demand geospatial skills.
Plenary Session
Saturday, July 11, 2026
San Diego, California
Where education meets innovation
Hear from educators and industry leaders shaping the future of geospatial education and workforce readiness.
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Featured speakers
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Frank Romo
Chief Executive Officer | RomoGIS
Romo develops community-centered STEM and workforce programs that empower young people with skills in GIS, drones, AI, and data storytelling. His work connects education, workforce development, and civic engagement to inspire the next generation of leaders and change makers.
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Dr. David A. Padgett
Director, Geographic Information Sciences Laboratory | Tennessee State University
For over 30 years, Dr. Padgett has provided GIS-based technical assistance to hundreds of environmental justice and community-based organizations. In 2019, he was awarded the American Association of Geographers Presidential Achievement Award.
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Jeffrey Ulricksen
Assistant Director, Spatial Services | University of Rhode Island
Ulricksen focuses on space planning, allocation, and advancing a university-wide geospatial strategy to expand ArcGIS usage across campus operations. He applies GIS-driven methods to streamline workflows and integrate data across campus systems.
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Chad Segrist
GIS Pathway Lead | Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men
Segrist helped establish one of Michigan’s most impactful secondary GIS and drone pathway programs. Through his work, students are introduced to advanced technologies, such as GIS, drone mapping, spatial analysis, and digital cartography.
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