David Brent, PLS – Associate Surveyor | 10 Years of Experience
1. Why/how did you get into Surveying?
Land surveying is a profession that I stumbled into after high school. It started off as a summer job on a field crew pounding construction stakes. I eventually ran my own field crew and then worked my way into the office.
2. What was your career path to get into Surveying?
For me, it was all on-the-job experience. I started off in the field and then transitioned into the office and started pursuing my professional license.
3. What is your favorite part of Surveying?
I enjoy the diversity of the projects we get to work on and the variety of services we provide. It has also been exciting to the see the advancements in technology within our industry since I first started.
4. What is your advice for anyone looking to get into Surveying?
If possible, try to find a mentor. I’ve had a few different mentors throughout my career and they’ve each contributed significantly to my growth as a land surveyor. Because there are so few college surveying programs out there, mentorship and on-the-job training are a great way to break into our profession.
Mike Long, PLS, CFedS – Director of Surveying | 40 Years of Experience
1. Why/how did you get into Surveying?
I was an Architectural draftsman and was asked to assist on a Survey crew. It was great to work outdoors using Survey instruments and to see how the data made its way onto paper.
2. What was your career path to get into Surveying?
My journey started with the US Army. My aptitude tests placed me into the Geodetic Survey program which I surprisingly excelled. This allowed me to work all over the country on a 3-person crew, including a 3-month project in Puerto Rico.
3. What is your favorite part of Surveying?
I enjoy working with talented people forming a team to complete a project.
4. What is your advice for anyone looking to get into Surveying?
Enroll in a Survey program. This will enlighten you on all the elements that make up Land Surveying. There are so many opportunities online and this will make you a well rounded Land Surveyor.
