Building stronger connections between experienced surveyors and emerging professionals was the focus of RICK Engineering’s inaugural Geo • Games • Gala, an industry gathering designed around interaction rather than formal presentations.
Held in Tucson, Arizona, the Oct. 23 event offered attendees opportunities to meet professionals from different companies, public agencies and related industries. The programme included games, sponsor exhibits, trivia challenges and shared gathering spaces.
Organized by Brian Laird, associate principal at RICK Engineering, the event was intended to create an informal setting where participants could build relationships and enjoy time with peers across the surveying community.
The venue's layout supported networking throughout the afternoon. Trivia activities took place near the stage, while a central cabana provided space for attendees to connect with sponsors and vendors. Pickleball courts hosted surveying-themed challenges, and bar and picnic table areas offered additional places for conversations.
The gathering attracted professionals at different career stages, including individuals who do not regularly attend industry meetings. Some participants also travelled from outside Arizona.
For early-career surveyors, the event provided an opportunity to meet experienced professionals willing to share advice and industry knowledge. It also introduced attendees from outside the profession to surveying and its career opportunities.
One sponsor brought a prospective surveying professional to the event, giving the individual an opportunity to learn about the field through direct conversations with industry participants.
RICK Engineering plans to build on the event by strengthening connections with local colleges and technical education programmes. Organizers also aim to introduce surveying to students earlier and reach people considering careers in the profession.
The event's informal format may offer another way for industry professionals to connect with emerging talent beyond traditional meetings and presentations. Its organizers also hope to attract surveyors who have not previously participated in professional gatherings.
Surveying depends on experienced professionals transferring technical knowledge and practical expertise to the next generation. Events that bring early-career and established surveyors together can support those relationships while increasing awareness of career opportunities.
RICK Engineering's planned outreach to educational institutions could extend that effort by introducing more students and prospective workers to the profession.
Source: Rick engineering.
