In this episode of Pathfinders, GIS expert Brendan Walashek shares his 25-year journey in the GIS industry, starting from early coding days to leading significant GIS projects across Western Canada for McElhanney. Brendan discusses the impact of GIS on various sectors, from urban planning to emergency response, and emphasizes the value of collaboration and adaptation in evolving tech environments. "Keep pounding away; innovation happens when you listen closely and keep pushing," he says. This episode invites listeners to explore how GIS can be a force for good within the engineering field and and to consider ways they can contribute to positive change in their industries leveraging the power of GIS.
Meet Brendan
With over two decades at McElhanney, I have honed my expertise in Geographic Information Systems, steering the development of advanced GIS solutions and web applications. My role encompasses leading a dynamic team, ensuring we deliver cutting-edge geospatial technologies, from web mapping to 3D modeling, that cater to diverse sectors including Asset Management, Planning and Civil Engineering.
“It’s not about one person—it’s about a team, a culture, and the will to push forward together.”
Recognized for strong leadership in the GIS field, I've effectively managed complex projects utilizing custom GIS solutions for various stakeholders in numerous public and private sectors. Collaborating with technical committees, my contributions to GIS innovations have not only advanced our capabilities but also strengthened our client relationships, solidifying McElhanney’s position as a pioneer in the GIS landscape.
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Connect with Brendan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-walashek/
P.A.T.H.
Passion
Brendan’s passion for GIS began with his love for coding and mapping. From his early years coding on a Commodore 64 to applying those skills in physical geography, he combined technical and spatial expertise, sparking a career in GIS. His enthusiasm grew as he saw GIS’s potential to create tangible solutions for clients, shaping his commitment to projects that enhance societal resilience, urban development, and environmental protection.
Action
As a GIS Branch Manager, Brendan has led innovative projects that impact multiple sectors. His work on projects like the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and emergency flood mapping reflect his initiative and dedication. Brendan’s proactive approach to leadership and his commitment to delivering client-centered solutions show how action can drive GIS advancements and inspire change in organizations and communities alike.
Tenacity
Resilience has defined Brendan’s career, particularly when GIS projects faced funding or resource limitations. Through economic downturns, he emphasized the importance of continually refining skills and technology, adapting to challenges in real-time. His ability to persevere, coupled with strategic thinking, allowed him to navigate obstacles and build a sustainable, impactful GIS program over the years.
Humility
Brendan’s journey is marked by humility, as he reflects on the collective efforts of his team and mentors. He values collaboration and sees mentorship as key to fostering a positive workplace culture. His emphasis on supporting others’ growth within GIS showcases his commitment to shared success, positioning him as an authentic leader who recognizes that meaningful change often requires collective effort and adaptability.
Established in 1910, McElhanney is an employee-owned company that provides surveying, engineering, GIS & remote sensing, community & transportation planning, landscape architecture, environmental services, and more. We have 30+ locations across Western Canada, with a specialty office in Florida (USA), to serve cities, communities & parks, energy & resources, and transportation sectors. We operate locally in the communities where we live and work and share staff resources across the company to meet our clients’ needs with efficiency and the best expertise.
Sponsored by BeSpatial Ontario
This episode of Pathfinders is sponsored by BeSpatial Ontario. Join them at bespatialontario.ca to earn GISP credits, access webinars, and stay updated on the latest GIS industry news worldwide.
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