I’ve started work with a company, and I’ve been thinking a lot about why I chose them.

At this point in my career, coming up on nearly 28 years in the geospatial industry, that decision isn’t about titles, logos, or compensation.

It’s about where I choose to invest my energy.

And more importantly, why.

The Perspective That Comes With Time

I’m starting to feel a little like the old guy in the room.

I’ve seen this industry when it was command line and niche… and now we’re in a world where people think you can just yell a question into the atmosphere and AI will hand you the answer.

That’s not entirely true, but it’s not entirely wrong either.

I’ve seen the growth.
The evolution.
The innovation.
The adoption.

And I’ve had the privilege to work with and learn from some of the best this industry has to offer.

Which is exactly why I’ve become more selective, a lot more selective.

At this stage, it’s not just about what’s possible.
It’s about what actually matters.

The Reality of Innovation Today

Over the last six years, since starting GEO261 and our growth consultancy business, something has become very clear:

There’s no shortage of innovation.

But there is a shortage of meaningful innovation.

Everyone is building something:

• Bigger

• Faster

• Better

• More cost-effective

But too often, they’re missing the point.

The buyer.
The experience.
The problem.
The mission.

Are you actually interested in your customers, or just interested in being interesting to them?

There’s a lot of flashy, “whiz-bang” tech hitting the market right now.

And more often than ever, I find myself asking:

So what? Who cares?

(And yes, you can thank Anthony Calamito for that drumbeat. It stuck.)

What I Look For Now

After seeing hundreds of “emerging” technologies, I keep coming back to the same questions:

• Who is the team behind this?

• Do they understand the mission, or just the technology?

• Is this solving a real problem, or just showcasing capability?

• Do they actually understand their market, the buyers and competitors?

• What does the company culture look like, from leadership to the most junior team member?

Because at the end of the day:
Technology doesn’t build companies. People do.

Why This One Is Different

This opportunity stood out immediately.

Not just because of the leadership, though that alone is exceptional.

Five individuals. Four co-founders. Small team. But incredibly powerful.

We’re talking about people who have operated at the highest levels, in and out of uniform:

• Industry

• The Intelligence Community

• Department of Defense (Sorry, War)

• Navy, Air Force, Army, and U.S. Special Operations Command

Researchers. Data scientists. Engineers. Operators.

But it doesn’t stop there.

They also bring:

• Business development, strategy, and marketing leadership

• Experience from organizations like IBM, In-Q-Tel, and Dell

• Global advisory roles across DoD and industry

• Congressional and policy advising experience

• Proven startup success

Collectively, over 100 years of experience (by my Marine Corps math).

That matters.

But experience alone isn’t why I said yes.

It’s the Culture, and the Conviction

What stood out most was how aligned they are with how I believe teams should operate:

• Move with intent (70% solution)

• Empower people (don’t legislate the how)

• Stay adaptable (no plan survives contact)

• Be someone others trust and want to work with

But even more than that…..

I felt something I haven’t felt in a while.

Real conviction. Real belief. Real passion for the problem being solved.

And that matters more than anything.

Because if you’ve been in this industry long enough, you know:

Passion isn’t something you can fake.
And it’s not something you feel often, especially not after nearly three decades.

There are a lot of good ideas out there.

Very few you actually believe in.

This is one of them.

The Moment That Sealed It

When I was offered the opportunity, I was very direct:

“I love this, but I also love where I am. I love the people. I can’t leave them hanging.”

“I also love what we’ve built at GEO261 and the opportunities tied to that work.”

Honestly, I thought that might be the end of the conversation.

It wasn’t.

Their CEO and Co-Founder didn’t hesitate. No pause. No corporate spin.

He said:

“Then don’t.”

“Don’t leave them hanging. Bring everyone along. Do what you need to do to succeed here, and be that same engine for others.”

That’s rare.

That level of confidence.
That level of trust.
That level of leadership.

In that moment, I knew exactly what kind of team this was.

And more importantly,

I knew I wanted to be part of it.

Why This Matters

I chose this team because:

• They care about each other

• No individual is bigger than the team

• Ego exist (let’s call it confidence), but it doesn’t get in the way

• They understand both the technology and the mission

• They’re building with purpose, not just capability

And maybe most importantly…..

I believe in what they’re building.

Final Thought

At some point in your career, you stop chasing opportunities.

You start choosing alignment.

You start choosing people.

You start choosing problems worth solving.

And you start protecting where your energy goes.

Because energy is finite.

And where you invest it, matters more than ever.

It was an interesting experiment to be part of the recently released St. Louis Post-Dispatch article titled, “St. Louis geospatial industry is at an inflection point. Will the jobs come?”

And honestly, it also validated some concerns I had going into the interview in the first place.

When you spend well over an hour in conversation—sharing context, nuance, and perspective—and then see only a small fraction used, specifically the part that supports a predetermined narrative, it’s disappointing. Not surprising, but disappointing.

Because the reality is, the story is bigger than what was presented.

Leaving out the strides being made by organizations like Gateway Global and the University of Missouri–St. Louis is a miss. Not acknowledging long-standing, high-quality programs at Saint Louis University (SLU), Lindenwood University, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is also a miss. These aren’t side notes; they are foundational to what this region has built over decades.

St. Louis has never been new to GEOINT.

We’ve been a national leader for a long time.

And when I talk about GEOINT, I mean it the way I’ve always known it—geospatial intelligence as a core discipline within national security. That legacy matters. That ecosystem matters.

A lot of credit belongs to leaders like Robert Cardillo, who helped this region understand, appreciate, and invest in an industry that most people still don’t fully understand. Because let’s be clear:

This industry isn’t emerging.
It’s established.
It’s growing.
And it will continue to grow.

Why? Because every other industry either already depends on location—or will.

If you don’t believe that, go spend some time on Esri’s industry pages. Look across the verticals—logistics, agriculture, utilities, healthcare, finance, retail, defense. The use cases are endless. The relevance is undeniable.

The Problem Isn’t Jobs. It’s Awareness That Leads to Interest—and Interest That Leads to Employment.

I’ve been saying this for years to anyone who will listen:

We have a 6-to-60 spatial literacy problem.

And that problem starts long before students ever reach higher education.

If young people aren’t exposed to geography, geospatial science, and how location impacts the world around them, they don’t pursue it. Then they grow into adult leaders, decision-makers, and executives who still don’t understand it.

And if they don’t understand it, they don’t invest in it.
They don’t hire for it.
They don’t build with it.

That’s the real issue.

It’s not that jobs don’t exist.

It’s that people don’t understand the importance of geography, geographic science, the industries that depend on it, and the jobs within it.

And beyond that, they don’t understand that these jobs go far beyond technical roles. This isn’t just about GIS analysts or developers. This is about operations, planning, policy, and business strategy—roles across every industry that rely on spatial thinking.

Where We’re Falling Short

As an industry, we haven’t done enough in three critical areas:

1. Early Education
We are not consistently exposing students to geography and geospatial concepts early enough.

2. Career Awareness
We are not clearly communicating the breadth of career opportunities—especially non-technical ones.

3. Pathways
We are not making it easy to understand how to go from interest to education to employment.

That gap—more than anything else—is what’s impacting job growth, company formation, and innovation.

Geography Is the Foundation

At its core, this all comes back to one thing: geography.

Geography is the foundation for understanding how our world works. It connects people, places, data, and decisions. It provides the spatial context needed to address everything from national security and economic development to disaster response, infrastructure planning, and environmental sustainability.

In a world driven by location-based data, geography transforms information into insight.

It helps leaders:

• See patterns

• Anticipate risk

• Allocate resources

• Make smarter decisions

Simply put, geography is not just about maps.

It’s the lens through which we understand complexity—and turn data into action.

We’ve Been Here Before

This isn’t a new message for me.

I’ve written about it before in:

• “Geospatial Excellence: STL has been Geo-Special for a very long time” (April 26, 2023)

• “GEO Relevance & 314 Day: St. Louis’ Past, Present, and Future in Geospatial Relevance”

The region has the institutions.
It has the history.
It has the capability.

What it needs now is alignment around awareness, education, and access. The entire country does.

The Real Inflection Point

So yes—St. Louis, and any city that sees promise in geospatial as an economic development focus area, is at an inflection point.

But not because we’re waiting to see if jobs will come.

The inflection point is this:

Will we finally invest in building a spatially literate population that understands the value of “where”?

Because if we do, the jobs will follow.
The companies will follow.
The innovation will follow.

If we don’t, we’ll keep asking the same question five years from now.

And we’ll still be missing the point.

When most people hear the word wayfinding, they picture signs that point from point A to point B. And that’s not wrong, those systems help people get where they need to go. But that’s only a fraction of what’s possible. True wayfinding isn’t just about navigation. It’s about connection and storytelling, helping people understand where they are, what’s around them, and how their journey fits into the larger story of a place.

Inspired by T-Kartor and their success with City Wayfinding in cities like London, Toronto, New York, and Cleveland, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what’s next. The conclusion I’ve come to is simple: most cities are just scratching the surface. Wayfinding isn’t something that happens to a city, it’s something cities and communities build together.

Fragmented Journeys, Missed Opportunities

Too often, cities approach wayfinding as a series of disconnected efforts. Transit systems design their own signage. Convention centers publish separate visitor maps. Local businesses create their own marketing materials, each working in isolation. Individually, these tools may work fine. But together, they create a fragmented experience.

The result is a city that feels disjointed. Residents get frustrated. Visitors feel lost. Local businesses miss out on valuable foot traffic. Mid-sized cities fall behind global leaders like London, Paris, Seoul, and New York, not because they lack energy or culture, but because moving through them doesn’t feel connected. And that fragmentation doesn’t just affect convenience. It directly impacts economic growth, tourism, civic pride, and a city’s ability to compete globally.

Cities as Connected Ecosystems

Now imagine something different. A city where every journey to work, to school, to shop, to explore, feels seamless, intuitive, and inspiring. A city that empowers residents, captivates visitors, and attracts businesses ready to invest and grow.

In a truly connected city, every pathway tells a story. Streets become corridors of discovery. Districts pulse with local identity. Information isn’t just displayed, it’s shared, interpreted, and alive.

When wayfinding is done right, it becomes much more than a collection of signs and maps. It pulls people toward the shops, parks, museums, and restaurants they love. It fuels economic growth by linking people to local businesses. It reveals a city’s character, its culture, creativity, and charm. And it builds pride, creating places that people want to live in, invest in, and return to repeatedly.

My Vision: A Whole-Systems Approach

The cities that thrive tomorrow will be those that embrace whole-systems thinking, uniting physical and digital, public and private, local and regional into one coherent experience.

This is more than signage or smart-city technology. It’s about creating a shared language that connects people to place. Imagine airports, transit networks, schools, cultural institutions, businesses, and public services working together to deliver one seamless journey. Imagine information that doesn’t just exist, but empowers, helping residents and visitors to move confidently, aiding emergency response, and giving civic leaders the insights to shape smarter growth.

Every sign, map, and digital touchpoint becomes part of a living story, one that deepens understanding, sparks curiosity, and celebrates what makes each city unique.

Why It Matters

When cities invest in integrated wayfinding, the impact is profound:

• Economically, it attracts more visitors, extends their stays, and channels more revenue to local businesses.

• Socially, it creates a more inclusive, accessible experience that builds confidence and pride.

• Operationally, it strengthens safety and resilience by ensuring critical information is clear and coordinated.

• Strategically, it positions the city as forward-thinking — ready for innovation, growth, and global competitiveness.

Ultimately, wayfinding makes information meaningful. It transforms movement into experience, and experience into connection.

An Invitation

These ideas come from the mind of a lifelong geospatial practitioner who believes geography, spatial science, and technology have a marketing problem, and this is our moment to fix it.

Let’s reimagine wayfinding not as an afterthought, but as strategic growth engine. Let’s bring together the public and private sectors, cultural institutions, transit agencies, businesses, and residents to build systems that connect people to the places and spaces they love.

Let’s create cities that are easier to navigate, richer to experience, and stronger in identity. Because when a city tells one clear, unified story where everyone finds their place.

For years, St. Louis has proudly celebrated its legacy as a leader in geospatial talent and technology. This legacy has become a rallying cry for economic development, building on the success of Biotech and AgTech and setting the stage for an even more thriving geospatial ecosystem through education, awareness, and innovation.

If you’re searching for the gold standard in geospatial excellence or looking to contribute to a better St. Louis, look no further than Seiler Instrument and Manufacturing Company, a legacy that began in 1945 as a small survey instrument repair shop on Pine Street in downtown St. Louis. Founded by Eric H. Seiler and his wife Dora L. Seiler, the company flourished under the leadership of their son, Eric P. Seiler Sr., a man who exemplified honor, integrity, and dedication to both his craft and his community.

Eric P. Seiler Sr. made a profound impact, just as his father did before him. Eric Hermann Seiler, the company’s founder, worked at Wissler Instrument Company in St. Louis, where he contributed to the development of balloon theodolites for the Aeronautical Chart Service during World War II. These instruments were used to monitor weather conditions and wind patterns, optimizing flight routes for bombers and military aircraft traveling overseas.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Eric P. Seiler Sr. set the standard for service and excellence. His dedication to something greater than himself was evident in his military service, where he completed two tours of duty (1946 and 1953) before honorably concluding his service in 1955 as a Staff Sergeant. His contributions extended beyond the military, his expertise in survey solutions played a crucial role in the construction of the St. Louis Gateway Arch and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in the 1960s.

Eric Sr.‘s legacy is deeply rooted in family, craftsmanship, and service. With immense pride in his father’s background, working with Zeiss in Germany, Eric Sr. built a culture of excellence that flowed naturally into Seiler Instrument and Manufacturing Company philosophy: putting the customer first and delivering precision solutions. During his time as CEO, he was known for his long-standing question, “Who’s the Boss?” and everyone knew that “The Customer” is the boss. Without the customer, you do not have a business and Eric always reinforced this idea to all his people to make sure the customer wants to do business with you. His leadership helped propel the company to the forefront of military and geospatial technologies, providing sights and mounts for mortars and howitzers, as well as surveying, mapping, construction, and drone solutions for private sector clients and government agencies like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Seiler Instrument’s commitment to St. Louis runs deep. The company’s first two office locations were at 922 Pine Street and later 1629 Washington Ave. in downtown St. Louis. In 1968, the company moved to Webster Groves, and in 2009, it relocated to Tree Court Industrial near highways 270 and 44.

For 78 years, from 1946 until his passing last year, Eric P. Seiler Sr. was a leader, mentor, and inspiration to everyone at Seiler Instrument and Manufacturing Company. His vision propelled the company forward, always with a focus on precision, quality, and integrity. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he valued family, teamwork, and community. His legacy lives on in the company he built, the values he instilled, and the impact he left on St. Louis and the geospatial industry.

I’m incredibly honored to dedicate Geo Next Day on April 1st, as part of STL Tech Week, to celebrating the life and legacy of Eric P. Seiler Sr. His vision and leadership helped build Seiler Instrument & Manufacturing Company into a cornerstone of the geospatial industry. For over 80 years, Seiler has been a leader in geospatial solutions, precision manufacturing, and optical instrument repair, serving industries ranging from surveying and mapping to construction, military, and aerospace.

Eric’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence shaped both St. Louis and the broader geospatial community. His name is synonymous with precision and integrity, qualities that continue to drive Seiler’s success today.

I've touched on this in past blog posts and LinkedIn updates, but my journey with St. Louis began back in the late 1990s while I was in Arkansas, either attending or pretending to attend Arkansas State University. At that time, St. Louis was simply "the closest big city" to northeastern Arkansas (sorry, Memphis—you’re loved too). My connection to the city was largely through watching the St. Louis Cardinals, one of the only Major League teams you could follow in Arkansas, alongside the Dallas Cowboys. It was an exciting time, with Mark McGwire of the Cardinals and Sammy Sosa of the Cubs chasing the single-season home run record.

That was my entire understanding of St. Louis back then. I think a lot of people still see it through a similar lens: a baseball town, a beer town, and home of the Gateway Arch aka the symbol of westward migration. When I moved here in 2002, those impressions remained, but I added one more, it was now home to my employer, The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency or NGA.

Fast forward 23 years, and my understanding of St. Louis has been completely transformed, not because the city itself changed (everything evolves, after all), but because I learned to see beyond my own limitations. What once seemed fixed is now a landscape of possibility, shaped as much by perspective as by progress.

My perspective on St. Louis has completely shifted and I’ve come to understand how unique St. Louis truly is through a combination of personal and professional experiences.. More importantly, I’ve gained friends in the Show-Me State who are showing me what it really means to be a St. Louisan.

No other “big small town” boasts the kind of neighborhood diversity that St. Louis does. The city alone has 79 official neighborhoods, and the broader metro area is made up of over 200 municipalities, each with its own distinct communities and character. This creates a unique dynamic: strong neighborhood bonds, communities that are forced to collaborate due to their geographic closeness, and governance structures that can shift from one baseball mound to the next.

I get it now, this place is called the Show-Me State for a reason. You need someone to show you how St. Louis is the ultimate underdog in the race to become a top-tier innovation hub. You need a friend to show you how to navigate the city’s incredible cultural centers, each neighborhood bringing something unique to the table. You need a friend to show you the deep, complex history of a city built by immigrants, shaped by resilience, and still pushing forward through a blend of past and future.

Geographically, St. Louis tells its own story. Centrally located in the Northern Hemisphere, this river town was once a major hub for rail, air, and river commerce in the 19th century. It was the place everyone had to pass through to go anywhere else, the true 'Gateway to the West.' That legacy of movement, connection, and exchange of ideas still shapes the city today.

Back when I was younger, I didn’t have the internet the way we do now. I didn’t have access to the endless resources we take for granted. And yet, even now, something about Midwestern culture keeps St. Louis underrated. Maybe that’s what makes this city so special. Those who take the time to see it for what it is, who let it show them its potential, are the ones who truly understand its power.

Why St. Louis Deserves Your Attention

As we head into conference season with major events like TechSTL’s Tech Week and USGIF’s 2025 GEOINT Symposium, many of you will be visiting, considering moving here, or bringing business opportunities to St. Louis. So let me share why I think this city is not just cool, but special beyond the professional opportunities.

Earlier this year, I visited St. Louis CITY SC headquarters and saw a massive graphic on the first floor, a word cloud capturing many of the incredible neighborhoods that make up the city and county of St. Louis. (Someone pointed out that Kirkwood was missing, don’t worry, we see you!)

These neighborhoods are often overlooked unless you live here, but they are filled with amazing people, restaurants, bars, parks, events, schools, museums, and endless entertainment. They are defined by their people, assets, and unique identities. We refer to these areas as downtown, midtown, south county, north county, west county, south city and we even define them as innovation districts. St. Louis isn’t just a city, it’s a collection of vibrant, distinct communities that include but are not limited to:

• Central West End – is a dynamic hub for young professionals, medical students, and affluent residents, offering a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. With elegant turn-of-the-century homes, upscale apartments, and a bustling nightlife, the neighborhood thrives on its vibrant energy. Its walkable streets are lined with top-tier restaurants, boutique shops, and cultural hotspots, all set against the backdrop of world-class medical and research institutions like Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine.

• The Grove – A dynamic, LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood bursting with creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural vibrancy. Known for its bold street art, thriving nightlife, and an eclectic mix of locally owned businesses, The Grove is a hub for innovation, inclusivity, and community-driven revitalization.

• The Ville - is a historic and resilient community that has long been a beacon of Black excellence, culture, and education. Home to legendary institutions like Sumner High School, it has nurtured icons such as Tina Turner, Chuck Berry, and Annie Malone. The Ville’s legacy includes the pioneering Homer G. Phillips Hospital, which trained generations of Black physicians, and figures like Madame C.J. Walker, the first Black millionaire. This neighborhood embodies the spirit of activism, achievement, and innovation, shaping history while continuing to inspire future generations.

• The Hill – A historic Italian-American enclave renowned for its rich cultural heritage, family-owned restaurants, and strong sense of community. Famous for its authentic Italian cuisine, charming delis, and decades-old bakeries, The Hill is a St. Louis gem where tradition and hospitality thrive.

• Dogtown – The heart of St. Louis’ Irish community, Dogtown traces its roots back to the 19th century when Irish immigrants settled in the area, later playing a crucial role in building Forest Park for the 1904 World’s Fair. Today, it remains a lively neighborhood known for its rich heritage, local pubs, and the city’s most spirited St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. With a mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy, Dogtown offers a welcoming atmosphere that blends tradition with a strong sense of community.

• Soulard – One of St. Louis’ oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods, Soulard is famous for its historic 19th-century red-brick architecture, lively blues music scene, and the iconic Soulard Farmers Market, the oldest public market west of the Mississippi. Known for its strong French heritage, this neighborhood is home to some of the best Cajun and Creole-inspired cuisine in the city. It also hosts St. Louis’ largest and most spirited Mardi Gras celebration, drawing visitors from across the region and the country for its parades and festivities. Soulard seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern energy, making it a beloved hub for food, music, and culture.

• Cherokee Street – The beating heart of St. Louis’ Latino community, Cherokee Street is a lively hub of culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Lined with authentic taquerias, panaderías, and mercados, it offers some of the city’s best Mexican cuisine. The neighborhood is also a haven for artists and makers, featuring colorful murals, independent boutiques, and vintage shops. Throughout the year, Cherokee Street comes alive with events like the Cinco de Mayo festival, showcasing its rich heritage and diverse, welcoming spirit.

As my friend and all-around amazing human, St. Louis native Chaz Mason, puts it: “There’s a place for everyone, but it’s not the only place. Each of these areas has its own personality, but there’s incredible and inviting overlap.”

More Than Just Neighborhoods: St. Louis' Unmatched Events

Beyond its neighborhoods, St. Louis hosts incredible annual events that bring people together:

• Soulard Mardi Gras (Feb/March) – One of the largest outside of New Orleans.

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Run (March) – Draws 250,000+ people to the Dogtown area.

• Fair St. Louis (July 4th) – Fireworks, concerts, and air shows at the Arch.

• Festival of Nations (Aug) – A celebration of cultural diversity featuring vendors from 70+ backgrounds held on the grounds of Tower Grove Park.

• Japanese Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden (Labor Day) – One of North America’s largest, featuring sumo, tea ceremonies, and traditional performances.

• St. Nicholas Greek Festival - Typically occurring over Labor Day Weekend, Hosted by the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, this festival features Greek food, live music, dance performances, and church tours

• Forest Park Balloon Race (Sept) – A 50+ year tradition with a mesmerizing Balloon Glow, The largest metropolitan balloon race in the country.

Landmarks & Attractions

St. Louis is famous for its iconic sites, but each offers much more than meets the eye:

• Gateway Arch – the most iconic symbol of St. Louis, stands 630 feet tall, making it the tallest monument in the U.S. and the world’s tallest stainless-steel structure. As part of Gateway Arch National Park, it represents America’s westward expansion and offers visitors a breathtaking ride to the top with panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River.

• Mississippi River – the second-longest in North America, has long been a vital artery of trade, exploration, and history. It played a crucial role in U.S. expansion, served as a major route for Native Americans and early settlers, and remains one of the world’s busiest commercial waterways, transporting over 500 million tons of goods annually. The river also holds deep historical significance as part of the Underground Railroad, where enslaved people sought freedom by crossing its waters.

• Anheuser-Busch Brewery – offers visitors a chance to tour its historic facility, learn the craft of brewing, and even sample fresh beer while admiring the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. But St. Louis is more than just Budweiser, it’s a thriving beer city with over 50 craft breweries, including Schlafly, Urban Chestnut, 4 Hands, Perennial, and Side Project, each offering unique and innovative brews.

• Busch Stadium & Ballpark Village – are at the heart of St. Louis’ rich sports culture, home to the Cardinals, who hold the second-most World Series titles in MLB history, behind only the Yankees. The city also boasts a passionate fan base for the NHL’s St. Louis Blues, the UFL’s Battlehawks, and Major League Soccer’s St. Louis City SC, making it a true sports town.

• Forest Park – Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. and bigger than Central Park in NYC, is a cultural and recreational gem. Home to the 1904 World’s Fair, it houses top attractions like the Saint Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Science Center, all free to the public. The park also features The Muny, the nation’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater, and the historic Forest Park Golf Course.

Food & Drink

St. Louis has a distinct culinary identity, with must-try specialties:

• Toasted Ravioli – Invented by accident at Charlie Gitto’s on The Hill.

• St. Louis-Style Pizza – Imo’s is famous for this thin, cracker-like crust with Provel cheese.

• Gooey Butter Cake – A ridiculously addictive and beloved local dessert.

• Ted Drewes Frozen Custard – A South City classic. Nothing better than TD on a summer evening.

• Crown Candy Kitchen – Famous for its epic BLT (there’s no shortage on the B), milkshakes, and nostalgic charm.

• Cathy’s Kitchen – A Ferguson gem, owned and operated by an amazing couple with a menu that’s inspired by a 15-state road trip exploring culinary diversity.

Looking for a wine pairing? Missouri was America’s wine capital before Napa, with Augusta and Hermann offering historic wineries just 45 minutes from the city. Not into wine or beer? St. Louis boasts a thriving craft distillery scene, featuring bourbon, rye whiskey, vodka, gin, rum, and moonshine. Local favorites like StilL 630, Switchgrass Spirits, and Nobletons Distilling House emphasize grain-to-glass craftsmanship with Missouri-grown ingredients. Many offer tastings, tours, and exclusive small-batch releases, much like Anheuser-Busch.

Spoiler Alert: Nothing, and I mean nothing compares to a night at The Thaxton Speakeasy with friends.

Tucked away in the historic Art Deco Thaxton Building, this hidden Prohibition-era gem in downtown St. Louis feels like a different world. Whether you’re enjoying a single expertly crafted cocktail or indulging in a few, you won’t find a more incredible ambiance or better-mixed drinks anywhere in the city.

And let’s talk about the owner, one of the most incredible humans you’ll ever meet, deeply passionate about her craft, her guests, and creating an unforgettable experience. Bonus: It’s also the perfect spot for private events and weddings.

Simply put, The Thaxton Speakeasy is a world-class experience. It’s my number one for drinks!

Culture & The Arts

Looking for a touch of culture? St. Louis has you covered! The city is home to world-class museums like the St. Louis Art Museum, National Blues Museum, City Museum, National Museum of Transportation, and the Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve. You can also catch incredible performances at The Muny, Stifel Theatre, and The Fabulous Fox Theatre. It’s no surprise that St. Louis has produced legends like Chuck Berry, Tina Turner, Nelly, Miles Davis, and Josephine Baker, as well as actors like Jon Hamm, Cedric the Entertainer, and John Goodman.

A City of Opportunity

At the heart of St. Louis, and much of the Midwest are values like humility, kindness, and being a good neighbor. For a long time, I thought that’s why we don’t brag more. But it runs deeper than that, it’s just not in our DNA. What is in our DNA is the Show Me mentality: don’t just talk about it, be about it. Some will say that actions speak louder than words. Or, as my favorite saying goes… “Game recognizes Game.”

My goal with this blog was to “Show You”, and I haven’t even touched on affordability, job growth, top-tier universities, geospatial innovation, or St. Louis’ central location. I’ll dive into all of that leading up to the GEOINT Symposium.

Like every major city, St. Louis has challenges, but its advantages far outweigh them. To close, I’ll paraphrase Congressman Wesley Bell, who recently honored the entire St. Louis region on the House floor where he said and I’m paraphrasing.

“St. Louis is more than our food, beer, and traditions—it’s about the resilience and bonds that define our community. Our city reflects both beauty and struggle, from economic inequality to racial injustice, but we’ve never backed down from hard truths or necessary change. 314 Day reminds us of the power of unity, from our diverse neighborhoods to thriving businesses. St. Louisans rise in the face of adversity, organizing for justice and rebuilding together. Today, we recommit to our city’s spirit—turning challenges into opportunities for growth, justice, and meaningful change.”

So, next time you're in town, or considering St. Louis for business, an event, or even a new home, look beyond the beer and baseball. You’ll be surprised at what you find. See you in St. Louis!

The Marine Corps instills a leadership philosophy rooted in decisiveness, adaptability, and integrity. These principles, forged in the high-stakes world of military operations, have profound relevance in business and life.

The Four Tenets of Marine Corps Leadership:

1. EMBRACE THE 70% SOLUTION: If there’s 70% confidence, Marines make those choices…now. “Between a good decision now and a great decision later, you choose the good decision now,”.

2. DON’T LEGISLATE THE “HOW”: There’s no manual for advisers in a hostile environment. “A large part of our job is just figuring out what our job is,” So they follow “the commander’s intent”. Commanders say what results should look like and leave the rest up to Marines.

3. FALL IN LOVE WITH FLEXIBILITY: “Don’t fall in love with the plan”, Marines are taught that “no plan ever survives first contact.”

4. BE A “GOOD M*****F*****R”: It’s Marine shorthand for being a good person. Do you place your mission first? Do you take care of your people? Do you go the extra yard? Do you give a damn? “Your reputation is out there, I’ll ask a guy I know, “Is this guy a good m*****f****r?” If he is, then he’s in the good m*****f****r club. And if he’s not, f**k him.”

Why This Matters

From a young age, my mother instilled in me that there were three things she couldn’t stand: liars, cheaters, and thieves. She never called it "high character", it was just expected and understood. Fast-forward to 1998, and four years after high school, I found myself in the Marine Corps.

Like many, I didn’t enlist with a grand plan. I had demonstrated an elite-level ability to consume adult beverages, dominate bar trivia, and fail college classes. But the Marine Corps reshaped my perspective. It demanded discipline, respect, and above all, integrity. The expectation was simple yet profound:

Marines never lie, never cheat, never steal.

Those weren’t just words; they were the foundation of everything. Marines hold themselves and each other accountable. It’s about honor, courage, and commitment. And years later, I’ve realized this principle applies far beyond the military.

The GOOD M*****F*****R’s Club (The GMC): A Rising Tide Lifts All Ships

For years, I joked about starting a GMC, a group built on integrity, honesty, and accountability. A place where we celebrate wins, own losses, and lift each other up. Success isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about bringing others along.

Recently, on a fishing trip with some of the best and most honorable men I know, this very concept came up. That’s when I learned that across the industry, something similar already existed, the Honest Brokers Club (HBC). A group of 40+ individuals from 30+ companies (mostly small-businesses or mid-sized), committed to transparency, ethics, and collaboration. And, as fate would have it, I was just a few rants away from an invite, and one of the founding members (let’s call him “Silverback”) was in the room with a bourbon and a smirk. Let’s see who reads this and who asks about the HBC.

The timing was perfect. A member of the fishing-foursome recently shared a blog post titled “The Reputational Cue Ball”, a reflection on integrity, especially in these uncertain times. It made me think:

What does integrity look like today?
How do we maintain it in both personal and professional spaces?

The answer? By living it. By making honor, honesty, transparency, and collaboration the non-negotiables in our relationships.

The Power of Integrity: Why It Matters More Than Ever

In a world obsessed with ambition and competition, true success is rooted in character. These values aren’t just lofty ideals, they are the foundation of trust, respect, and lasting impact.

• Honor & High Character: Trust is the currency of influence. People gravitate toward those with integrity. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about owning your actions and holding yourself to a higher standard.

• Honesty: The cornerstone of credibility. When you tell the truth, especially when it’s hard, you earn respect that money can’t buy.

• Transparency: The bridge to authenticity. Open, honest communication fosters trust, loyalty, and stronger relationships.

• Collaboration: No one wins alone. The best leaders create opportunities for others, embrace different perspectives, and lift people up.

Winning the Right Way

In today’s unpredictable world, character matters more than ever. Businesses that prioritize integrity outlast those that chase short-term gains. Leaders who operate with honor inspire real loyalty. Success without character is fleeting, but success built on integrity leaves a legacy.

Be honorable. Be honest. Be transparent. Be collaborative.

Because in the end, how you win matters just as much as winning itself. And trust me, everyone will eventually know how you did it.

Happy 314 Day, St. Louis!

As we celebrate 314 Day, I find myself reflecting on this city's journey, its triumphs, challenges, and relentless pursuit of geospatial relevance on both a national and global scale. I’ve been both critical and deeply supportive of St. Louis in this endeavor, because I believe in what we can be.

Let’s be honest, we are not yet the dominant force in geospatial innovation, education, and workforce development. And maybe we don’t need to be, but one thing is non-negotiable, we must be, and we will be relevant. The truth is, we are relevant and have been for a while now. St. Louis has been a cornerstone of geospatial relevance for decades, and over the past 10 years, that relevance has only grown. Our challenge now is to push even further, to not just sustain but elevate our impact for years to come.

In my 2023 blog post, “Geospatial Excellence: STL has been Geo-Special for a very long time…”, I highlighted St. Louis’ legacy in geospatial dating back to August 1952, when the city became home to the Aeronautical Chart and Information Center (ACIC), evolving through the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) and the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) to what we now know as the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). We saw groundbreaking work continue in 2004 when Dr. Curt Davis established MU’s Center for Geospatial Intelligence, with support from former NGA Director and Director of National Intelligence, James Clapper. And of course, institutions like the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Geospatial Technical Operations Center (NGTOC) who supports the National Map and their neighbor Fort Leonard Wood’s TRADOC Proponent Geospatial have solidified Missouri’s role in national geospatial leadership.

Education and evangelism have played a critical role in expanding our reach. Champions like Tara Vansell at Lindenwood University and Dr. Randy Pearson at Southern Illinois University (SIUE) and his GeoMARC Research Center have driven major progress, yet the question remains: what does the next level of relevance look like for St. Louis and the St. Louis Region?

Recently, in a moment of frustration, rooted in my impatience for faster progress and measurable impact, I reached out to a mentor, someone I deeply respect, to talk about measuring impact. I was asking, “are we making a real difference? Are we changing lives?” They reminded me:

• In 2017, St. Louis had never hosted a GEOINT Symposium. Now, we’ve hosted multiple and are hosting it again this year. Note: This incredible man was slightly wrong, the 1^st ever was hosted in STL., but I guess that validates our relevance even more.

• There were no Educational Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with universities. Today, we have two, one with The University of Missouri-St. Louis and one with Harris-Stowe State University.

• GeoFutures, the Taylor Geospatial Institute, the Taylor Geospatial Engine, Moonshot Labs, the Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) with T-REX, and the Geospatial Innovation Center at T-REX—none of these existed before.

• The Harris-Stowe State’s GeoHornet Lab and UMSL’s Geospatial Collaborative didn’t exist and are now shaping the next generation of talent.

And then they hit me with a direct measure of impact…..what about Dr. Freddie Wills and the HBCU Immersion Program at Harris-Stowe State University, which just celebrated its third cohort, this time with an incredible experience at Geography 2050 in New York City. That’s measurable change. That’s lives being shaped.

Even the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) has recognized St. Louis for its unique government, business, philanthropic, academic, and nonprofit collaborations, an exemplar of how a city can drive national security engagement and innovation.

And let’s not forget the local leaders who have put in the work like Bill Caniano, Julie Murphy, and Zekita Armstrong, who, through their efforts have supported Gateway Globals development of the Geospatial & IT Workforce and Apprenticeship Campus (GIWAC) and coming soon their Geospatial Stimulation Theater, bringing the geospatial certification program for high school students to life. That’s measurable change. That’s lives being shaped.

Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter

Over the next eight weeks, St. Louis will host STL TechWeek, another GEOINT Symposium, and a variety of events showcasing our geospatial ambitions. But for us to level up, we need to lean into interdisciplinary collaboration, leveraging our strengths in AgTech, Biotech, FinTech, and Artificial Intelligence to reach our goal of real and measurable impact.

We have:
The passion
The people, but we need more
The connections
The environment to make it happen

I remain bullish on St. Louis’ geospatial future. I will continue to demand measurable results, and I believe we all should. But there’s no doubt, we have the promise to become truly special on a global scale.

Over the coming weeks leading up to GEOINT 2025, I’ll be sharing more about why I appreciate St. Louis, not just for its geospatial relevance, but for its leadership in innovation districts, AgTech, Biotech, the people, the midwestern values, and its growing opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Happy 314 Day, my friends. Let’s keep building.

Who are the top 10 living geospatial thought leaders whose insights you prioritize, whose talks you never miss, and whose writings you always read?

The response was overwhelming. The comments flooded in, filled with passionate endorsements for individuals shaping our industry. What started as a personal challenge quickly became a celebration of geospatial leadership, highlighting an incredible range of experts across software, data science, policy, open-source, and more.

The Numbers: A Telling Story

7,000 impressions
109 comments
55 likes, hearts, lightbulbs, and clapping hands
15+ countries and territories represented
59 women and many people of color recognized

Perhaps the most exciting takeaway? 142 unique names were mentioned, a testament to the depth of talent across our industry.

Additionally, several names surfaced multiple times, revealing a strong consensus around key figures driving the geospatial field forward.

And one name stood out above the rest: Paul Ramsey, mentioned six times, solidifying his position as one of the most recognized voices in geospatial today. He is and will forever be my favorite!

The Most Recognized Voices in Geospatial

Beyond Paul Ramsey, other leaders emerged with multiple mentions:

Mentioned Four Times

• Chris Tucker

Mentioned Three Times

• Nicholas Brown

• Tee Barr

• Steven Pousty, Ph.D.

• Will Cadell

• Chris Holmes

• Keith Masback

Mentioned Twice

• Dee Jordan

• Lee Schwartz

• Patrick Cozzi

• Peter Rabley

• Anthony Calamito

• Linda Foster

• Cathrine Nakalembe

• Dawn Wright

• Narelle Underwood

• Kevin Pomfret

• Josh Campbell

• Nadine Alameh

• Ben Tuttle

• Greg Scott

These names reflect the collective admiration of the geospatial community, leaders whose work, vision, and contributions are shaping the future of our industry. Note: The complete list can be found at the conclusion of this post.

The Takeaway: A Community of Influencers

This exercise reinforced something I’ve believed for a long time:

The geospatial industry is growing at an incredible pace. Thought leadership within it may feel rare and hard to find, but perhaps that’s because the people who truly lead aren’t the ones chasing trophies or recognition. Instead, they are givers, collaborators, and visionaries…..people who are about something bigger than themselves.

They are the ones who elevate the field through mentorship, innovation, and a commitment to shared success over individual accolades. They are the "connective tissue" of our industry, linking expertise, ideas, and opportunities in ways that impact every other sector.

Geospatial science, technology, and tradecraft are about more than just maps and data. They are about solving real-world problems, telling important stories, and informing critical decision-making.

The fact that so many people struggled to name ten thought leaders off the top of their heads speaks volumes. But the names that did emerge? They represent the voices guiding us forward.

The giants who built this field won’t lead us forever. It’s up to us to support and cultivate the next wave of visionaries.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going…….

This discussion has already introduced me to new voices, reminded me of colleagues I don’t see often enough, and sparked impactful new relationships. But it’s just the beginning.

Who else should we be paying attention to? Who’s missing from this list? Who want’s in on the action? Let’s keep this dialogue alive, and continue elevating the thought leaders who inspire and shape our industry every day.

The Complete List of Names as Nominated By Their Peers!

Paul Ramsey, Chris Tucker, Nicholas Brown, Tee Barr, Steven Pousty, Rhiannan Price, Olivia Powell, Barbara Ryan, Rebecca Firth, Paloma Merodio, Dr. Julia Wagemann, Cyhana Lena Williams, Ingrid Vanden Berghe, Krystal Azelton, Adina Gillespie FRAeS, Diane A Dumashie FRICS, CEDR, APM, PhD, BSc, Kate Fairlie, Catherine Ball, Timothy Burch, Craig Roberts, Craig Sandy LS GAICD, Lisa Bush GAICD, Vanessa Lawrence, Lawrie E. Jordan III, Drew Clark, Anousheh Ansari, Peter H. Diamandis, Barbara Belvisi, Emily Calandrelli, Kylie Ahern, Julie Inman-Grant, Louise Baxter, Kelly Bayer Rosmarin, Donna-Maree Vinci GAICD, FGIA, GCB.D, CEW, MACS (Snr), Katrina Konstas, Brent Jones, Gary Kent, Dave Doyle, Jacob Heck, Tim Murphy PLS, Michael Filipski, Chris Freeman, Norman Ellerbrock, Ben Shinabery, Sophia Parafina, Michele Tobias, Brian Maddox, Coleman McCormick, Ghermay Araya GISP, CSM, Abe Usher, Rob Painter, Patrick Biltgen, Jacqueline Kazil PhD, Chitra Sivanandam, Elizabeth Lyon, Sean Gorman, Sean Wohltman, Christina Monaco, Joe Governski, Melanie Corcoran, Renee Will Ph.D., Patty Mims, Aimee McGranahan, Phillip Bearden, Tony Frazier, Maggie Cawley, Mike Spaeth, Madison Condon, Sarah Kapnick, Susan Kalweit, Katharine Hayhoe, Dr. Nikki Markiel, Brian Monheiser, Lou Von Kahle, Eldrich Frazier, Donna Frazier, Frank Romo, Kevin Hope, Robert (Bob) Sharp, Deirdre Dalpiaz Bishop, Kevin O'Connell, Ananyaa Narain, Mark Reichardt, Sanjay Kumar, Marc Prioleau, Valrie Grant MSc, GISP, MBA, GCB.D, David Henderson, Christopher H. Barlow, Bryn Fosburgh, Marie Price, Denise McKenzie, Mike Botts, Clinton G. Johnson, Alexandre Robin, Scott Simmons, Budhendra Budhu Bhaduri, Meredith Gore, Brian McClendon, Todd Huffman, Jeffrey Harris, Ted Cope, Letitia Long, Dr. Silburn Clarke CLS, FRICS, DFJCS, DBA, Dr. Earl Edwards, Nadine Brown, Cecille Blake, Bheshem Ramlal, Simone Michelle Lloyd GISP, MSc, PG Dips GINF, GIS, ED, David McCollin, Michelle St. Clair, Jacob Opadeyi, Philip Hippolyte, Mark Codling, Tarik Dixon, Schuyler Erle, John Hanke, Ian Schuler, Sina Kashuk, Kyle Barron, Steve Coast, Ed Parsons, Tom MacWright.

Around this time last year, we made a pivotal decision, GEO261 needed a true headquarters, a space that reflected not just where we worked, but who we were evolving. Up until then, we operated from home offices in Illinois and North Carolina, meeting wherever we could, coffee shops, borrowed conference rooms, or client spaces. St. Louis has long been a vital hub for the geospatial community, and with the upcoming opening of NGA Campus West in 2025, alongside significant public and private investments in geospatial innovation, research, and education, the region’s commitment to geospatial excellence was undeniable. It was no longer just an industry presence; it was a driving force in regional economic growth. For GEO261, the message was clear, it was time to establish our headquarters and take our seat at the table.

The choice of where to establish our office was an easy one. We had recently built a strong relationship with John Berglund and the Starwood Group, owners of the iconic Post Building at 900 N. Tucker. A landmark since its construction in 1930, the Post Building had long served as a hub for connecting St. Louis to the world, first as home to the Globe-Democrat newspaper, then as headquarters for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch until 2020. Today, it has been reimagined as a commercial space designed to fuel the next wave of fintech, geospatial, and entrepreneurial ventures. The Post, alongside T-REX, St. Louis’ renowned innovation hub, and The Globe Building, a premier center for technology and cybersecurity, forms the backbone of the Downtown North Insight District. It’s a district built on big data, geospatial, fintech and digital transformation, shaping St. Louis’ future while connecting us to global decision-makers.

More Than an Office—A Collision of Ideas

Within the Post Building, we found more than just office space, we found a developing ecosystem of like-minded innovators. Among our new neighbors was Cartel Strategies. No, not the cartel from Narcos or the one giving Marty and Wendy Byrde headaches in Ozark, this Cartel is something entirely different. "Cartel" is the Cuban word for poster. Their name is a tribute to the power of poster art, a nod to multicultural inclusiveness, impactful design, and collaboration with an edge.

Founded by Cuban American designer Carlos Zamora, Cartel Strategies is a brand strategy and design agency known for creating bold, compelling visual identities. They weren’t just another creative firm; they were the masterminds behind the branding for the entire Downtown North district. Their team specialized in distilling complex ideas into simple, striking visuals that resonated on an emotional level.

At first, our conversations were casual, sharing thoughts on branding, messaging, and the nuances of storytelling in business. Over time, those conversations turned into something more. Carlos and his team began pointing out gaps in our own branding, things we hadn’t even realized were missing. We thought we had nailed our identity, but working with Cartel revealed something bigger, we hadn’t just built a consulting firm, we had built a growth strategy company.

The Rebrand: A Transformation Beyond Aesthetics

What followed was one of the most eye-opening and transformative experiences we’ve ever been through. For six months, we went deep, not just into colors and logos, but into the psychology of how our brand was perceived. Cartel’s approach mirrored our own methodology when working with clients, be interested, not interesting. They took the time to understand who we were, what we stood for, and most importantly, how we wanted our clients to see us.

Through this process, we learned how much words matter. How colors, shapes, and typography aren’t just design choices, but powerful signals that shape how people perceive a company. We discovered the science behind storytelling, the way the brain processes brand identity, and how to position ourselves for long-term success.

By the end of it, we had gone through a complete rebranding, not just a visual overhaul, but a fundamental shift in how we communicate our value. The result? A brand that finally felt as strong, sophisticated, and forward-thinking as the solutions we provide.

A Partnership for Growth

Looking back, partnering with Cartel was more than a branding exercise, it was a real-life growth opportunity. We thought we knew our story, but they helped us tell it in a way that truly connected with our audience.

For any of our friends looking for branding, marketing, or strategy expertise, look no further than the team at Cartel Strategies. They are an honest, hardworking, creative, and insightful group who are deeply invested in their clients' success. We couldn’t be prouder of our rebrand, and we’re even more excited about the road ahead.

I’ll admit, I’m disappointed that St. Louis is only now getting national attention for being the “world leader in creating technology that sees the world”1.  I’m a bit biased (and no offense to anyone that thinks geospatial is new news here), but St Louis has been a geospatial center of excellence for a very long time now.  It’s why I moved here following my Honorable Discharge from the Marine Corps (yes, that’s a humble brag) in 2002.  I've spent almost half of my life working as a geospatial professional, and all but 4 of those years were right here in St. Louis. The increased attention is - due in large part - to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA)2 building their new second headquarters facility, and the economic development opportunities that will come as a result of it.  But there is so much rich geospatial history in the region that is hiding in plain sight, and I am disappointed that no one has stood up to share the broader story of the geospatial history in St Louis.  So I am here to set the record straight and shine some light on the other geospatial contributors in the region that improve and enhance everyday life for the masses and do so hiding in  plain sight.

In 2016, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency under the direction of Robert Cardillo announced their decision to upgrade their St. Louis based operations by building a new $1.75B dollar facility just north of downtown St. Louis.  At that point I had lived and worked in St. Louis for just over 14 years and one thing in St. Louis was consistent…people asking, what do you do and where do you do it? What is Geospatial and what is NGA?  Some would quickly respond, “oh, the mapping place across from the brewery” and others thought I was speaking in tongues.  My OG’s (or original GEOINT’ers3) will appreciate the challenge that comes with explaining what it is that  we do, and that I got so tired of trying to explain it over the years that I  just started telling everyone that I'm an astronaut.  In my mind, there were three events that made geospatial a real and relevant industry to non-geo people in the St. Louis region.  First, it was Cardillo’s decision to upgrade NGA facilities in St. Louis.  Next, a 60 Minutes piece on Planet Labs and NGA in January of 2019.  Finally, a September 2020 CBS This Morning piece with (then NGA Director) Vice Admiral Bob Sharp about how NGA’s team of model builders played a critical role in the discovery of Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden.  It was then that people really started to understand what NGA is,  how important geospatial science really is, and how St. Louis could be the place where geospatial companies, innovators, startups and tech talent come together to thrive.  I’m excited about the increased interest in the geospatial industry, and I’m thankful to NGA for their commitment to working with, working in, and developing unclassified initiatives like Moonshot Labs, the Education Partnership Agreement (EPA) with The University of Missouri - St.Louis, and the Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) with T-REX . I’m thankful to T-REX for leading the charge and developing the Geospatial Innovation Center, and to their partners in the Downtown North Insight District, the Globe Building and The Post Dispatch Building for their commitment to empower and enrich lives, solve problems and keep America safe.  I’m thankful for the Taylor Family4, the creation of the Taylor Geospatial Institute,  and for their continued support and generous contributions to Greater St. Louis Inc, GeoFutures, and the commitment to geospatial as a focus area for economic development.  All of these initiatives are amazing and will make powerful impacts in the region.  As a career geospatial professional, I want to take this opportunity to recognize and thank some of the people and organizations that got us here.  

Hiding in Plain Sight…

This history dates back to August of 1952 when St. Louis became home to the Aeronautical Chart and Information Center (ACIC), a precursor to NGA. Many have known NGA as that “mapping place across from the brewery”5, but few have ever truly understood the impact St. Louis has on geospatial missions across the globe and beyond. Mapping the moon for NASA and Apollo astronauts, safety of navigation for Aeronautical and Maritime operations, precision targeting and global positioning systems (GPS), combat support to military operations, and disaster response and humanitarian mission support, are all examples of St. Louis leading the charge in advanced geospatial science.

NGA St. Louis makes regional, national and global impacts, and it is responsible for only a fraction - albeit a critically important fraction - of the geospatial excellence and thought leadership coming out of St. Louis.  Look no further than the University of Missouri in Columbia (125 miles from downtown St. Louis)  where you can find Dr. Curt Davis a founding member and current director of MU’s Center for Geospatial Intelligence,  an interdisciplinary center that focuses on geospatial intelligence needs critical for national security, homeland defense and military combat support. Since 2004, he and his team have done extraordinary research focused on geospatial sciences and geospatial technologies for the Department of Defense and federal civilian agencies.  

Drive 90 minus south-ish to Rolla, Missouri (105 miles from downtown St. Louis) and you will find the The U.S. Geological Survey’s National Geospatial Technical Operations Center (NGTOC) who provides leadership and world-class technical expertise in the acquisition and management of trusted geospatial data, services, and map products for the Nation. NGTOC supports The National Map as part of the National Geospatial Program (NGP).

Drive another 45 minutes southwest to Fort Leonard Wood Missouri (140 miles from downtown St. Louis) and you will find yourself smack dab in the middle of geospatial at the Army’s TRADOC (Training And Doctrine) Proponent Geospatial. The TPO-GEO performs as the Army's centralized manager for coordination, integration, and synchronization of all Army geospatial information, digital terrain data and geospatial service requirements for capability development, force development, training, experimentation, and modeling and simulation.

Head back through St. Louis and and across the Mississippi River to Scott Air Force Base in St. Clair County Illinois (25 miles from downtown St. Louis) and you will find the home of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), Air Mobility Command (AMC), and the Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) who couldn’t execute their missions without a commitment to the use of geospatial technologies and tradecraft.

These are just some of the many examples that the region could point to, and there are countless examples of geospatial excellence from industries like agriculture, environmental management, and public health.  I would be remiss if I didn’t also highlight the great contributions of the Federal Systems Integrator (FSI) community and the many technology companies producing the sensors, software, and solutions required to make geospatial ordinary and easy consumable by all.  

It takes a Village…

St. Louis has truly established itself as a geospatial region of excellence, with the incredible impact of geospatial technology and innovation not only on the city but on the world at large. From supporting national defense, to enhancing emergency response, geospatial technology has proven to be a game-changer, making it an exciting time to be a part of this community and witness the commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving greatness.  The positive impacts of the STL community and  the geospatial community on my life are immeasurable, and that’s ONLY because I engaged, embraced, and learned from the very best to ever do it.  You can’t fake ‘Geo’ and you can’t do it alone. It takes a village. Reach out if you want to learn more, get connected, and make a difference! Maybe we can catch a Cardinals  game and enjoy a cold beer, because we are a center of excellence for that too!

Subscribe now