2021 Geo-Resolution Conference
Geo-Resolution 2021: Building a 21st Century Geospatial Ecosystem
From Hard Problems to Opportunities
On September 14, 2021, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and Saint Louis University (SLU) co-hosted Geo-Resolution, an annual conference to foster collaboration between government, academic and industry partners and to grow the geospatial ecosystem in the greater St. Louis region.
The 2021 conference featured NGA Director Vice Admiral Robert Sharp; SLU President Fred. P. Pestello, Ph.D.; Harris-Stowe State University Interim President LaTonia Collins Smith, Ed.D.; Esri Founder and President Jack Dangermond; and Maxar Executive Vice President of Global Field Operations Tony Frazier.
Speakers and panelists discussed the latest developments in the geospatial ecosystem, how geospatial science can solve some of the world’s most challenging problems, the importance of preparing the next generation of skilled workers, and the ethical considerations surrounding an increasingly connected world. A special broadcast featured young professionals discussing their careers in geospatial fields. Students were also are invited to participate in a poster session about the critical role of geospatial techniques in their research.
Moderated Conversation: “Leaders’ Look” – Developments in the Geospatial Ecosystem
- Vice Admiral Robert Sharp, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Director
- Dr. Fred Pestello, Saint Louis University, President
- Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith, Harris-Stowe State University, Interim President
- Moderator: Sarah Fenske, St. Louis Public Radio, Host/Producer
Morning Keynote Address : Jack Dangermond, Esri, President
Panel One: Hard Problems in a Geospatial World
In a world of hard problems, everything happens in time and space. Geospatial science captures those problems and aids in building solutions. As problems evolve in their complexity, the geospatial profession must do the same. This panel will explore how government, industry and academia are maturing geospatial technologies and their application to problems of today and tomorrow.
- Dr. Nikki Markiel, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Senior GEOINT Authority for Geomatics
- Dr. Vasit Sagan, Saint Louis University, Director of Geospatial Institute, Associate Professor
- Dr. Ian Howat, The Ohio State University, Professor, Distinguished University Scholar
- Moderator: Robert Cardillo, Saint Louis University, Distinguished Fellow
Panel Two: Preparing the Next Generation of Geospatial Experts
The exponential growth of location data and imagery require a new workforce with digital skills and an understanding of geomatics to tackle hard problems. This panel focuses on how to create an equitable talent pipeline through traditional academic degrees, workforce development, educational outreach and training trajectories for those looking to transition into the geospatial field.
- Zekita Armstrong, Gateway Global, President and CEO
- Andrew Hayden, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency College, Director
- Brian Feldman, Launch Code, Vice President Talent Solutions
- Dr. Freddie Wills, Harris-Stowe State University, Vice President for STEM Initiatives and Research Partnerships
- Moderator: Dr. Tara Mott, Esri, Account Manager; USGIF Saint Louis Area Working Group, Co-Chair
Special Broadcast: Why a Geospatial Career? Ask Young Professionals
- Austin Johnessee, Maxar, Geospatial Analyst
- Chris Nava, Booz Allen Hamilton, Data Scientist
- Dr. Kemba Noel London, Saint Louis University, Researcher
- TyRik Thompson, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Analyst
- Behnjamin Zib, Leidos, Sr. Geospatial Analyst/Production Manager
- Victoria Tuli, City of Seattle, Management System Analyst Assistant
- Moderator: Tara Vansell, Lindenwood University, Instructor
Afternoon Keynote Address: Tony Frazier, Maxar, Executive Vice President of Global Field Operations
Panel Three: Geospatial Ethics: Privacy, Persistent Surveillance and Connectivity
Personal activity is tracked by GPS location and shared with outsiders at increasing rates. Individual data can be broadcast during daily activities. What are the safeguards, and how is the need for public safety balanced with the expectation of privacy? Explore ethical issues involved in living in a world of ever-increasing surveillance and connectivity.
- Dr. Enbal Shacham, Saint Louis University, Co-Director of Geospatial Institute, Professor in Public Health
- Kevin Pomfret, Williams Mullen, Attorney, John Hopkins University, Adjunct Professor, USGIF Geospatial and Remote Sensing Law Working Group, Co-chair
- Allison Stevens, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Acting General Counsel
- Moderator: Father Michael Rozier, M.D., American Geographical Society, EthicalGEO Fellow; Saint Louis University, Associate Professor in Public Health
Panel Four: Geospatial Opportunities and Innovation
Local leaders talk about opportunities in the St. Louis region as a geospatial center of excellence. They will share the initiatives that pave the way to an inclusive, coordinated, innovative and growing ecosystem.
- Andy Dearing, Spatial STL Advisors, President
- Dara Eskridge, InvestSTL, Executive Director
- Jason Hall, Greater St. Louis Inc, CEO
- Sue Pollmann, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, West Executive, N2W Program Manager
- Moderator: Eric Druker, GeoFutures, Board Member
Geospatial Ecosystem Announcements
- Justin Bennett, President of Geodata IT, USGIF SLAWG, Co-Chair
Poster Session Winner Announcement
- Vice Admiral Robert Sharp, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Director