Surveyors

Become familiar with surveyor terms, projects, and tools used in this profession by reading publications about the topic. Professional associations publish various newsletters, journals, and magazines that are helpful. Here are a few to check out:

• Surveying and Land Information Science Journal: https://aagsmo.org/salis-journal
• Cartography and Geographic Information Science: https://cartogis.org/publications/journal
• NEWS & VIEWS: https://multibriefs.com/briefs/NSPS

You should also listen to "Surveyor Says! The NSPS Podcast" (https://nsps.us.com/page/Podcast), which is produced by the National Society of Professional Surveyors. The society also offers Trig-Star (https://trig-star.com), a competition that "recognizes and rewards high school students who excel in mathematics, particularly Trigonometry, and their teachers. The goal of the program is to demonstrate practical uses for mathematics and bring greater awareness of the surveying profession."

One of the best opportunities for experience is a summer job with a construction outfit or company that requires survey work. Even if the job does not involve direct contact with survey crews, it will offer an opportunity to observe surveyors and talk with them about their work.

Some colleges have work-study programs that offer on-the-job experience. These opportunities, like summer or part-time jobs, provide helpful contacts in the field that may lead to future full-time employment. Volunteering at an appropriate government agency is another way to explore the field. The U.S. Geological Survey and the Bureau of Land Management usually offer volunteer opportunities in select areas.