As we step into 2025, we are embarking on a transformative journey that promises to redefine the profession of land surveying. This year will be the Year of the Futurist—a time when we harness the collective power of our community to introduce positive, long-lasting change into every corner of the profession. Together, we will eliminate infighting, enhance communication, bridge education gaps, and unite surveyors of all ages and experience levels in new, dynamic ways. This is my vision, and it is one we can achieve together.

Reflecting on the Journey

You may be wondering where I’ve been and why I’ve been quiet. For the past 11 months, I have been working diligently behind the scenes, dedicating my time and energy to creating an entirely new suite of tools, resources, and opportunities for the surveying profession. These efforts culminated in a dynamic and innovative toolkit designed to meet the evolving needs of our community.

Here’s a glimpse of what has been developed so far:

• Surveying Tools, Guides, and Walkthroughs for New Surveyors: Designed to help newcomers navigate the complexities of the field.

• Virtual Surveying Training Simulators: State-of-the-art simulations that provide hands-on training in a virtual environment.

• Continuing Education Course Writing Tools: Resources to help experienced surveyors share their knowledge and expertise.

• Virtual Classrooms for Course Delivery: Platforms to deliver engaging and accessible education.

• PLS Exam Prep Tools: Comprehensive resources to support those preparing for licensure exams.

• Interview Simulators and GeoLocated Resume Builders: Tools to help professionals advance their careers with confidence.

• Pathways to Career Advancement: Step-by-step guides to help surveyors grow professionally and personally.

A Collaborative Vision for the Future

Over the past year, I took a hard look at the current resources available to surveyors and identified critical gaps. I set out to fill these gaps by developing working models—version 1s—for tools and resources that simply didn’t exist. These tools are designed to be 1000% collaborative, meaning they will continue to improve and evolve based on feedback from the community.

Let me make one thing clear: these tools are not just mine—they are ours. Every tool includes a feedback mechanism so you can share your suggestions and ideas for improvement. When your feedback is implemented, you will receive credit in our change log, ensuring that the collaborative spirit of our community is recognized and celebrated.  Follow the L.E.A.R.N Hub for Continuing Education for Futurists.

To access these tools, you simply need to become a Futurist Member within the community. Becoming a Futurist not only grants you access to the Surveyor Tooladex but also helps sustain our community financially, future-proofing it and preserving our collaborative knowledge base for years to come.

The Benefits of Futurist Membership

Futurist Members are at the forefront of shaping the future of land surveying. Here’s what you can expect as a member:

1. Access to Exclusive Tools and Templates: Members receive custom tools and templates for writing courses based on their field experience.

2. Partnership with the NSPS: Through our collaboration with the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), you can submit your courses and earn Professional Development Hours (PDH) credits. These courses are valid not just in your state but across all 50 states.

3. Opportunities for Additional Income: By using the tools provided by the Land Surveying Educational Advancement Resource Network (L.E.A.R.N.), experienced surveyors can write up to three courses per year and earn a second income while revitalizing the profession.

4. Community Contribution: Your input and expertise help shape the tools and resources available, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of our profession.

If you want to explore the possibilities, visit L.E.A.R.N. to learn more.

Elevating the Profession

In 2025, we will elevate the profession together. One of our key goals is to increase public awareness of the vital role that land surveyors play in society. By working as a united front, we can educate the public about the importance of our work and inspire the next generation of surveyors to carry the torch forward.

We stand at a pivotal moment in history. The tools, resources, and opportunities we have developed are just the beginning. As we move forward, our collaborative efforts will create a stronger, more unified community that is prepared to tackle the challenges of the future.

Building a Legacy

The Year of the Futurist is more than just a rallying cry—it is a commitment to building a legacy for the profession of land surveying. Together, we will:

• Foster innovation and collaboration within our community.

• Provide tools and resources that empower surveyors at every stage of their careers.

• Create opportunities for professional growth and development.

• Educate the public and inspire future generations.

As we embark on this journey, remember that the success of our vision depends on each and every one of us. By working together, we can achieve extraordinary things.

Join the Movement

The Year of the Futurist is here, and it is time to take action. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your career, there is a place for you in this movement. Together, we will elevate the profession, inspire the next generation, and leave a lasting legacy for the land surveying community.

Our First Course and Ebook is Now Available by Deward Karl Bowles, RPLS from Texas entitled "How Land Surveyors Solve Problems You Don't Know You Have (In Ways You Don't Understand)".    You can purchase the Book as a standalone Ebook Course here:

 

For those who would like to take the Course for PDH credit, you can do so inside the L.E.A.R.N hub at this link.  By purchasing the book and course there you will recieve the information for times available to participate in the course delivery through our new L.E.A.R.N Virtual Classroom, where Deward will deliver his course live.

Let’s make 2025 a year to remember. Work with us, contribute your expertise, and help shape the future of land surveying. Together, we can achieve greatness.