In this episode of the Pathfinders Podcast, Peter Veenstra and Duncan Rowe, seasoned GIS professionals, share their 30-year journey in the geospatial industry. They discuss their early passion for maps, the evolution of GIS, and how it has integrated with broader data systems. Emphasizing action and tenacity, they recount their experiences in adapting to technological changes and fostering collaborative teams. The conversation highlights the importance of humility, mentorship, and community, as they reflect on how personal and professional connections have shaped their careers.
"Always deliver and move the ball forward. It's not just about having ideas, but executing them and showing progress. Leadership is about building a community, working with people, and creating something better together."
P.A.T.H.
Passion
In the world of GIS, passion is the driving force that keeps our guests pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers. Peter and Duncan exemplify this passion through their love of maps and spatial data. For them, GIS is more than just a profession; it’s a lifelong journey of discovery. The excitement of visualizing data through maps is like gathering around a campfire—enthralling and captivating. Their passion has evolved over decades, stemming from a fascination with the visual power of maps to a deeper appreciation for the role spatial data plays in decision-making.
Action
Action is the spark that transforms ideas into reality, and Peter and Duncan are living examples of how consistent action fuels innovation. Over the years, they’ve adapted to shifts in the GIS landscape, learning new technologies and applying them in real-world contexts. From launching Commando analytics projects to integrating GIS into broader enterprise systems, they’ve never shied away from stepping outside their comfort zones. Action, for them, means delivering results, pushing forward even when challenges arise, and continuously finding creative ways to solve problems in their work.
Tenacity
Building a career in GIS, especially over the span of 30 years, requires tenacity. Peter and Duncan’s stories reflect a strong sense of perseverance, not only in mastering technical skills but in navigating the shifting demands of the industry. As early adopters of GIS, they faced many moments of doubt, yet their persistence has led to long-lasting contributions, including forming user groups and helping shape how GIS integrates with other data systems. Tenacity, for them, isn’t just about overcoming technical hurdles but about fostering long-term friendships and communities that enrich their professional lives.
Humility
Despite their successes, both Peter and Duncan approach their work with a deep sense of humility. They’ve mentored countless professionals and have always been open to learning from others, acknowledging that there’s always more to discover. They credit much of their growth to the strong community bonds they’ve formed, constantly reminding themselves to value the input of others. Whether it's mentoring younger colleagues or sharing knowledge informally, their humility shines through in their commitment to the greater good—always using data and their skills for positive impact.
Sponsored by BeSpatial Ontario
This episode of Pathfinders is sponsored by BeSpatial Ontario. Join them at bespatiaontario.ca to earn GISP credits, access webinars, and stay updated on the latest GIS industry news worldwide.
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