September 2023 Newsletter

PENNSYLVANIA SURVEYOR

, |

Presented by Knud E Hermansen, P L S , P E , Ph D , Esq

Register Here

2024 Surveyors’ Conference

January 21-24, 2024 | Hershey, PA

Visit Conference Website

OVERVIEW:

Message from the President

Thoughts on Professional Practice & Education: State Specific Exams

Side-Shot From Harrisburg

NSPS: Capitol Contours

Penn State Wilkes-Barre: “We are” Surveyors!

PSLS Represented at 2023 Boy Scout National Jamboree

Unlocking the Power of Reality Capture: 5 Ways AI Drafting Is Transforming Surveying Workflows

Online Surveying Educational Opportunities at the University of Maine

Member Spotlight: Troy A Leighty

Trig-Star High School Mathematics Competition

Survey says! career not just for the fellas

Representative John Joyce Meets with PSLS

Members in Gettysburg

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Hello everyone,

Where did the summer go? Schools are back in session and football season is here Fall is my favorite season!

Here is a brief update of what’s been going on over the last two months

On July 20, Bob Regola (PSLS Lobbyist and Legislative Chair) and I met with Senator Pat Stefano R-PA (Senate District 32), Executive Director of the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee Jen Smeltz, and District Director John Frick at the Senator’s office in Connellsville, PA, to discuss several legislative matters impacting our profession The meeting lasted for almost an hour We had great discussions with the Senator and his staff regarding our views, passions, and importance of these matters.

On July 28, the PSLS Executive Committee and members from Miller Wenhold Association Management (PSLS staff/management team) met in York, PA, for a Strategic Planning Session The meeting lasted for almost 5 hours and some of the goals for 2024 that came out of that meeting are: 1) developing a positive sense of unity; 2) strengthening the leadership and grassroots volunteer base; 3) assist members with business growth; 4) implement a workforce development program; and 5) improve PSLS communications and membership value

On August 1, Bob Regola and I attended Senator Pat Stefano’s golf outing in Bedford Springs, PA PSLS sponsored a hole for the event Bob and I had productive conversations with the Senator before the outing and after the reception At least the conversations were good The golfing sure wasn’t anything to write home about!

On August 2, Eric Gladhill and his C.S. Davidson, Inc. Gettysburg office hosted Representative John Joyce of Pennsylvania’s 13th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Some South Central chapter members attended, as well as others from Eric’s office, John Palatiello, JB Byrd, and Rep Joyce’s staff They talked about the surveying profession and “The Sense of Congress” resolution

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

On August 24, members of the Executive Committee, Legislative Committee and the Public Relations Committee met at Urban Terrain’s office in Murrysville, PA, for a legislative writing session This was a very productive meeting, and I appreciate all who attended At this meeting, as requested by the PSLS Board of Directors, we finalized our language to be added to SB 403 This is being proposed by the Professional Engineers regarding the approved experience needed to take the Professional Licensing exam We also finalized the next steps for the Right of Entry and also the State Plane Coordinate System Law. We ended the meeting discussing old HB 609.

The PSLS Education Committee has been very busy organizing the upcoming Surveyors’ Conference to be held in Hershey, PA, from January 21-24, 2024. The matrix of classes being offered is complete and touches a wide variety of topics. Currently, registration is open for Exhibitors and Sponsors. Registration for conference attendees is also now open, so make sure to take advantage of the early bird discount.

The process to fill our representative’s seat on the State Registration Board is still ongoing We have been updated by most of the candidates that they have contacted their senators for support and are waiting on word from Governor Josh Shapiro’s office

We continue to offer webinars throughout the year Currently, we are asking for Chapter and State year-end award nominations to be submitted by November 1 Our next State Board of Directors meeting is September 29, 2023

I hope everyone enjoyed their summer and valuable time with their families

God Bless!

Pete E Brothers, PLS

2023 PSLS President

Featured Featured FeaturedSeries Series Series

THOUGHTS ON PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE & EDUCATION SERIES:

STATE SPECIFIC EXAMS

B Y : K N U D E H E R M A N S E N P.L.S., P.E., PH.D., ESQ.

This is the eighth article I have prepared in the series offering thoughts on professional practice and education In this article, I wish to discuss state specific exams

Most states require the applicant for licensure in the state pass an exam on surveying topics the state board of licensure believes is important for surveying practice in the state. Even surveyors applying by reciprocity or comity that have already passed NCEES exams must take and pass the state specific exam to be licensed

I have had or hold surveying licenses in six different states In all but one state, I had to take a state specific exam I have also aided in the preparation and grading of state specific exams Based on my experiences, I have opinions on state specific exams that I will share with the reader Without question, I am going to stir up some controversy. Take heart for those that disagree with me. I have absolutely no influence other than these words to change any policies Furthermore, to date, my words have had no influence in modifying a licensing board’s policy I will also add that I have never shown a proficiency to predict the future If a reader does not agree with me, fear not My arguments will likely not persuade members of licensing boards Go to bed believing you will prevail, despite my arguments, and sleep in peace

We will start with the premise that I believe to be true, that there is law in one state affecting surveyors or surveying practice that is unique to that state. It follows that a surveyor should know that law before practicing or offering services in that state The relevant questio a state specific exam is the method to as knows state specific law

There are seven deficiencies I have obs specific exams.

First, contents of some state specific exa specific. Some licensing boards test kn common to all or many states

In one state specific exam, I was tasked with calculating coordinates and calculating the area of a parcel Testing for this knowledge is done on the national exams

Second, many exams ask questions that are state specific but are not required for competent practice within the state For example, one state specific exam question I had to answer asked for the penalties imposed for certain infractions by a surveyor. I would suggest that a surveyor could perform services required in the state competently for their entire professional career in that state without knowing what the penalties are for certain infractions in surveying practice Such knowledge, when necessary, can be addressed and found if and when the surveyor faces discipline This is akin to asking drivers on their driving exam what the dollar fine is for speeding

Third, it is not reasonable to test on topics that ordinarily require the surveyor investigate the law as a matter of course during practice For an example of this deficiency, I saw a question requiring a surveyor to know, on a state specific test, what are the number of hours of continuing education allowed for writing an article The surveyor can find this information when and if they decide to write an article What is appropriate is to ensure the surveyor knows continuing education is required for renewing a license

Fourth, testing should only focus on common and widespread knowledge to practice in that state. A state should not test on knowledge that most competent surveyors in the state do not know or need to know I have seen a state specific exam composed of questions that the vast majority of competent surveyors currently practicing in the state would not be able to answer

If the knowledge is not necessary for current surveyors to competently practice, why is the knowledge necessary for new surveyors? These are ‘gotcha’ questions that have no place on a state specific exam. I would go so far as to claim the exam would not survive legal scrutiny if challenged by a test taker.

Fifth, testing should only test on knowledge necessary for practice not knowledge useful for practice. Let me give an example what I mean by necessary versus useful knowledge. An example of useful knowledge would be the time period comprising the statute of limitation for the state. This is not necessary knowledge to practice surveying. The surveyor should not and cannot offer legal advice. Therefore, the surveyor cannot tell a landowner if adverse possession or prescription has occurred or not. It follows, while the surveyor may find the statute of limitations useful knowledge to know, knowing what the statute of limitation is for the state is not necessary knowledge for surveying practice.

Sixth, testing should be confined to fingertip knowledge versus lookup knowledge. Fingertip knowledge is knowledge that the surveyor must know without reminder when offering services. For example, fingertip knowledge would be the knowledge that a written contract is required for surveying services or there are mandatory standards that the surveyor must adhere to when providing typical surveying services. Lookup knowledge is what procedure is required to comply with a right of entry law. Using a non-survey related example, fingertip knowledge is the knowledge that a person must periodically renew car registration. Lookup knowledge is what procedure or paperwork is required to renew car registration.

Seventh, testing should focus on critical knowledge for common services, not unusual services that few surveyors provide. For example, if a state has survey standards for laying out solar envelopes and less than one percent of the surveyors in the state will ever attempt to lay out a solar envelope, questions on solar envelope standards are not appropriate. Knowledge of unusual services would be akin to a person seeking a driver’s license in order to drive their Ford 150 pickup being asked on their driver’s exam how many hours a commercial truck driver is allowed to drive before resting.

I would offer the opinion that if a licensing board eliminated from their state specific exams the deficiencies I have noted, the licensing board would substantially reduce the contents of the exam or even eliminate the state specific exam altogether - perhaps go with an on-line study course and test.

I will focus the remainder of this article discussing the future of state specific exams by suggesting three options. One option is to eliminate state specific exams. The second option is to offer alternatives to examination. The third option is to modify the testing procedures of a state specific exam to be more flexible and in line with NCEES testing.

Eliminating a state specific exam may be appropriate where there are few topics left after filtering them as previously noted or for licensing in cases of comity. In cases of comity, if a surveyor has practiced in one state for a long period of time without fault or discipline, experience and logic suggest the surveyor will practice competently in another state when licensed.

Alternatives to testing for state specific knowledge would require surveyors watch a video explaining state specific law or be sent a fact sheet on state specific law a surveyor should be aware of. Another option is to require attendance at a seminar or viewing videos where speakers explain state specific law.

The final option is to modify the state specific testing procedure. Provide references for the test questions that an applicant can study and allow on-line testing at test centers that can be taken by applicants anywhere and during any reasonable day and time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Knud E. Hermansen began his surveying career in the United States Marine Corps over 30 years ago. After completion of basic training, Knud was sent to surveying school and spent the next three years with the 2nd Topographic Platoon, 8th Engineer Battalion performing control surveys throughout the world. After his discharge from active duty as a sergeant, Knud worked for various consulting firms providing a wide range of services involving boundary surveys, site development, and engineering. During the last several years, Knud has provided consulting services in land surveying, civil engineering, and law. Much of Knud’s present consulting activities involve boundary disputes, easements, land development, liability, title, and contract issues.

* Other books and articles by Knud can be found at https://umaine.edu/svt/faculty/hermansen-articles/

SIDE-SHOT FROM HARRISBURG

The 2023-2024 Commonwealth’s main budget of $45.5 Billion was signed into law by Governor Shapiro on August 03, 2023 approximately one month after a stalemate. With the summer recess soon coming to an end, the House and Senate will return for the rest of the 2023 Legislative session While the legislators were on recess, this was an ideal time for PSLS to work on its legislative agenda We set up key meetings, had many discussions, and attended events

With regards to the PSLS Legislative Agenda, as of now, we will be addressing the following:

SB 403 – Licensing update – removing an existing barrier to becoming a Licensed Professional Land Surveyor

Old HB 609 – We will be introducing a simplified version

State Plane Coordinate System Law

Right-of-Entry

Updating the Registration Law (Act of 1945)

With everything that was mentioned above we will have a very active fall

The proposed Legislative schedule is as follows:

House Session Schedule:

September 26, 27

October 2, 3, 4, 16, 17, 18, 30, 31

November 1 13, 14, 15

Senate Session Schedule:

September 18, 19, 20

October 2, 3, 4, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25

November 13, 14, 15

December 11, 12, 13

With the amount of legislation that PSLS is attempting to get done and to accomplish our agenda, we must continue to donate to the Political Action Committee (PAC). This will enable us to discuss pending legislation affecting the profession and allow us to protect the interests of surveyors I encourage everyone to consider donating to the PAC so that we can protect our profession!

Let’s not forget that the PAC is our voice!! Please visit our website at www psls org to donate

BOB REGOLA STATE LOBBYIST, REGOLA CONSULTING

CAPITOL CONTOURS

Welcome to another edition of Capitol Contours with JB.

A few highlights since our last update include:

In June, leaders of the North Carolina Society of Surveyors (NCSS) attended a field hearing on Grid Security and Resilience held in Pinehurst by the Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee of the U S House Committee on Energy and Commerce The surveying profession’s work with utilities on the siting, permitting, and “bookend” surveying, both above or underground, for most infrastructure projects which begin with and end with a survey for planning, design, construction, as-built records, and asset management The NCSS delegation communicated to Subcommittee members by expressing that surveyors contribute critical services on energy, climate, and grid security projects. In July, the House Energy and Commerce Committee leadership unveiled draft legislation, the Pipeline Safety, Modernization and Expansion Act of 2023, ensuring the buildout for more pipelines, enhancing federal and state pipeline safety programs, and to direct Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to implement cutting edge technology innovation programs Rep John Joyce (R-PA), of the 13th Congressional District, is a member of the Full Committee

In July, PSLS members, as well other executives of CS Davidson, Inc , hosted a meeting with Rep Joyce in Gettysburg The Congressman and the PSLS delegation discussed the benefit to the public of professional licensure for surveyors and engineers, and the NSPS issue paper on the topic Eric Gladhill, PLS and colleagues were joined by NSPS Government Affairs Consultant John Palatiello and NSPS Federal Lobbyist John

"JB" Byrd

In June, the National Geospatial Advisory Committee (NGAC) met in person for the first time since the Pandemic Gary Thompson, PLS, a NSPS member and Chief of the North Carolina Geodetic Survey, was appointed Chair for the second consecutive year and presided over the two-day session.

The NGAC recently published an "Assessment of 3D Elevation Program," a 45-page report authored by NGAC's 3DEP Subcommittee. NSPS is referenced in the report on pages 11 and 45 The report concludes, "The vision for the next generation of 3DEP will build a modern elevation foundation for stronger, more resilient communities that strengthen and expand the U S economy, improve environmental and ecological decision-making, and ensure effective and efficient communication and transportation infrastructures "

In August, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which oversees the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), announced a delay in the implementation of the new Elevation Certificate (EC) that had been announced in June Due to problems with access to the new form, the existing EC will be accepted until November 1 The new form can be accessed from the FEMA website, but technical difficulties continue to impede downloading A guidance document provides assistance in the interim

In August, Vice President Kamala Harris announced in Philadelphia that the U.S. Department of Labor has issued its final regulations on the Davis-Bacon Act. The discussion of the survey issues begins on page 312. It is generally the same as the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) issued March 18, 2022, on which NSPS commented in strong opposition.

In July, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hosted a meeting of its Precision Agriculture and Rural Connectivity Task Force. NSPS Member Brent Birth of Pennsylvania is on the mapping working group of the task force

Over the last several months, NSPS members in Alabama, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, and Wyoming have appeared and participated in “listening sessions” hosted by House and Senate members of the respective Agriculture Committees in Congress to provide input on the 2023 Farm Bill Working with NSPS Lobbyist JB Byrd numerous state societies have advocated including the BASE Mapping Act as an amendment to the Farm Bill For the House Bill, such listening sessions have mostly been conducted by House Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson As a result of these numerous events, the surveying profession has been heard repeatedly as drafting of the respective bills progresses.

JOHN "JB" BYRD FEDERAL LOBBYIST, NSPS

PENN STATE WILKES-BARRE: “WE ARE” SURVEYORS!

By: Dr. Henrique Candido de Oliveira, Penn State University

Penn State Wilkes-Barre has been at the forefront of surveying engineering education since its creation in 1957 when it introduced its associate degree program in surveying technology. In 1994, the University expanded its offerings by introducing a bachelor's degree program, and since then, the program has continuously developed and expanded As of today, Penn State Wilkes-Barre stands as the sole university in Pennsylvania and one of only a few institutions nationwide offering an accredited bachelor's degree program in surveying engineering

At Penn State, our students, whether pursuing an Associate or Bachelor's degree, experience a dynamic education that combines extensive fieldwork, laboratory sessions, and real-world problem-solving in Surveying and General education courses This approach fosters deep engagement in campus activities, enhancing their overall university experience. In the upcoming year the Surveying Program will update its curriculum, bringing even more new technologies and techniques to the classroom.

Throughout their undergraduate journey, students are exposed to a diverse range of surveying disciplines, including Plane Surveying, Legal Aspects of Surveying, Least Square Adjustment, Geodesy, Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, and GIS To support the learning process of these subjects, students utilize an array of cutting-edge equipment such as Total Stations, Optical Levels, GNSS receivers/antennas, UAVs, and LASER Scanning Systems To gain a deep understanding of data processing, students initially perform manual calculations, which are then followed by the utilization of state-of-the-art software packages like Civil3D, Leica-Infinity, Carlson, ArcGIS Pro, Cyclone, and more.

Considering the current global demand for surveyors and the high-quality training offered by our Surveying Program, our students encounter no difficulties engaging in paid internships and receiving job offers while still studying In this regard, the PSLS provides valuable support to our Program, enabling our students to attend the annual conference at no cost This opportunity not only facilitates networking but also enriches their educational experience through informative training sessions

PENN STATE WILKES-BARRE: “WE ARE” SURVEYORS! - CONTINUED

At Penn State Wilkes-Barre, we take pride in immersing our students in a world of cutting-edge industry equipment through captivating oncampus presentations and demonstrations These engaging events are organized by the Surveying Program in collaboration with the Students Surveying Society, which hosts weekly meetings In the recent 2022-23 academic year, the campus received more than 15 distinguished companies, eager to connect with us Our students also have the incredible opportunity to journey across the state and beyond, serving as ambassadors for Penn State in technical visits, conferences, and competitions – such as the NSPS competition held in Washington DC last March, also supported by PSLS

We invite readers of the PSLS newsletter to join us in our mission to expand the number of professionals in the USA, particularly within our state You can contribute by spreading the word about our program to prospective surveying students

MEMBERSHIPPARTNER PROGRAMPARTICIPANTS

Thanks to the organizations participating in the Membership Partner Program

Gold Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc

Silver

Arthur A. Swallow Associates, LLC

J H Hickman Surveying, LLC

Keystone Surveying and Mapping, Inc

Lennon, Smith, Souleret Engineering, Inc

Bronze

McMillen Engineering, Inc

Morris Knowles & Associates, Inc

P. Joseph Lehman, Inc.

NSPS Competition group photo

Students during the competition

PSLSRepresentedat2023BoyScout NationalJamboree

BY: D. ROBERT DAVIDSON, PLS, ESQ, SUSQUEHANNA CHAPTER, ASSISTANT SCOUT MASTER TROOP 33 G COLUMBIA MONTOUR COUNCIL

The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) held their National Jamboree from July 19, through July 28 at The Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean, West Virginia The Summit Bechtel Reserve is a 10,000-acre High Adventure Base and Adventure Camp At the Jamboree, over 12,500 Scouts from all over the United States could participate in a vast range of experiences, including, whitewater rafting, zip-lining, rock climbing, marksman sports, kayaking, archery, fishing, and mountain biking Scouts also had the opportunity to earn 38 different merit badges Surveying was among the merit badges offered

Surveying Merit Badge, introduced in 1911, was one of the original 57 badges in the Boy Scouts of America, which was founded in 1910 It is one of only a few that still exist from the original merit badge offerings The National Society of Professional Surveyors has supported the Surveying Merit Badge at many Jamborees, including 2023 Kyle Schultze, an Illinois PLS and Eagle Scout, coordinated the badge offering Kyle, along with David Collier, a New Hampshire LS, NSPS Director and Eagle Scout, Kyle Allred, an Illinois PLS and Eagle Scout, Tom Silva, an Ohio PS and NSPS Director, James “Jeff” Jeffreys, a North Carolina PE, PLS, Matt Banton, an Oregon PLS, Jeremy Hutchins, a Virginia L S and Rob Davidson, a Pennsylvania PLS and Eagle Scout helped 226 Scouts earn the Surveying Merit Badge

One of the highlights of the week was the completion of the badge by a Texas Scout, making him one of a very few Scouts to have earned all 138 Merit Badges. Scouts were required to measure a 5-sided lot using a robotic total station and write a metes and bounds description of the lot they surveyed, determine elevations using a level and rod, review a deed and complete other badge requirements, including discussing surveying as a career. Scouts came away with knowledge of what it means to be a surveyor, and several expressed an interest in considering the field as a profession.

Surveying Merit Badge is one of the more difficult badges to obtain because of a lack of Cou prom

cil

Unlocking the Power of Reality Capture: 5 Ways AI Drafting Is Transforming Surveying Workflows

BY: ROBERT E. SINCLAIR

By now, most of you are probably tapping into the productivity that comes from collecting survey data via aerial imagery or LiDAR However, have you noticed that these new methods – while efficient in the field – are creating new challenges in the office?

Already stretched thin, office teams are left scrambling to process photogrammetry and point cloud mega files, desperately hoping their program won’t crash (again). Then, they’re forced to divert valuable time and effort to tediously tracing site plan features while still handling their typical permitting and entitlement duties. Meanwhile, field data backlogs continue to grow as permitting and design bottlenecks continue to sabotage schedules…

Sound familiar?

Efficiently collecting site data via UAVs or mobile or terrestrial scans is only half the battle Finding an office workflow that complements cutting-edge field processes is what will truly unlock the full potential of reality capture in surveying – which is where AI can help AI geospatial feature extraction is alleviating office stressors by turning photogrammetry and point cloud data into fast, accurate site plans

Here are five ways that AI drafting is helping surveyors make the most of their reality capture workflows:

Maximizing Productivity through Parallel Workflows

Delegating drafting to AI enables consultants to optimize their time by tackling multiple aspects of a project concurrently. Typically, this divideand-conquer approach to productivity would mean recruiting, hiring, and training additional team members However, with AI’s easy access and minimal learning curve

Optimizing Cost Efficiency

AI drafting presents a game-changing approach to achieving an economical cost per acre when transforming photogrammetry or point cloud data into site plans As project demands continue to outpace the available workforce, AI allows consultants to allocate staff and resources more effectively When comparing the cost per acre of AI feature extraction versus billable hours spent manually tracing site elements, autonomous drafting will likely win out every time – especially when considering the speed of AI and the more valuable tasks an employee could be completing instead.

Capitalizing on Employee Expertise

In the current labor market, skilled surveyors and drafters are in high demand and hard to find Why waste their valuable expertise tracing parking lines and curbs? Feature extraction is a critical part of site plan development, but shifting this uninspiring task to AI can optimize employee effectiveness AI drafting saves time and yields high-quality results while allowing staff to concentrate on work that benefits from their critical thinking and real-world knowledge

Elevating Accuracy and Detail

Reality capture and AI drafting bring unparalleled accuracy to site plans. While traditional point-to-point surveying requires approximations and graphical representations of non-critical elements, quality aerial imagery or LiDAR allows for comprehensive, pixel-accurate feature extraction by well-trained machine learning models. Such advancements empower consultants to make informed decisions based on highly accurate data, ultimately enhancing project outcomes and instilling more confidence in early-stage designs.

Enhancing Safety with Efficiency

UAV or mobile site data collection helps keep surveyors out of traffic and hazardous conditions With AI drafting, consultants no longer have to trade safety in the field for long hours and frustrations in the office Processing digital site data with AI makes reality capture not only the safest option but also the most efficient

UNLOCKING THE POWER OF REALITY CAPTURE: 5 WAYS AI DRAFTING IS TRANSFORMING SURVEYING WORKFLOWS - CONTINUED

To truly capitalize on your streamlined fieldwork, you need an efficient office counterpart. When it comes to revolutionizing site plan development, AirWorks Automate is leading the way. More teams are skipping tedious feature extraction and jumping straight to design and more complex tasks using AirWorks’ AI-generated, pixel-accurate layers that integrate directly with ArcGIS, Autodesk, Bentley, and more. With an average turnaround of 4 days, surveyors in every industry are leveraging AirWorks to deliver more projects faster and pave the way for expedited permitting and construction

By augmenting reality capture with AI, you really have nothing to lose – except maybe your current frustrations AirWorks’ AI drafting might just be the key to the streamlined, cost-effective workflow you've been dreaming of

ONLINE SURVEYING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MAINE

By: Raymond J Hintz, PLS, PhD, Professor and Program Coordinator

Online educational options at the University of Maine are accessed by clicking on an icon at online umaine edu/surveying The certificate and degree options are:

Undergrad certificate in surveying engineering technology (SVT) – 15 credits of surveying – as of July 26, 2023 there are 111 students enrolled for Fall 2023.

BS in SVT (ABET ETAC accredited) – 125 credits – as of July 26, 2023 there were 230 students enrolled for Fall 2023

Graduate certificate in SVT – 12 graduate credits of surveying

Professional Science Masters in Engr & Business SVT concentration – 30 graduate credits of surveying and business

Master of Science in Engr Technology SVT concentration – 30 graduate credits of surveying

Currently there are 37 graduate students in surveying across the three graduate options.

In the approval process is the Doctorate of Engineering Technology SVT concentration (online, hopefully functional within the next year) which returns the highest degree possible in surveying to the University of Maine after a 20-year absence The focus of this article will be on the undergraduate curriculum

Four full time faculty (all licensed PLS’s) exist with the help of “retired” professor emeritus Knud Hermansen who obviously you all know in PA. Knud actually teaches more classes and students than before he retired! The full-time faculty include two PhD’s in surveying and two MS’s in surveying

Our focus is to get all BS students to licensure as a professional land surveyor Thus, completion of the Fundamentals of Surveying exam is required before graduation with a success rate on the exam of greater than 90% Note some of our seniors are already PLS’s so obviously the FS exam is not required as they completed it before they enrolled. The success of graduation and licensure of our graduates is detailed in our alumni list at https://umaine.edu/svt/alumni/ and detailed further (by state) in our newsletters at https://umaine edu/svt/resources/newsletters-announcements/ The success of University of Maine SVT is acknowledged by receiving the NCEES surveying academic excellence award in every year it has existed

The curriculum for the BS degree is a combination of surveying, business, English, and communications with the usual components of math and physics The student is thus being prepared for success at running a surveying business or a professional position at a surveying and engineering firm. 98% of the lectures are online asynchronous so they can be watched at any time and watched multiple times. The online courses follow the standard university academic calendar and all homework and exams have exacting due dates.

SVT at U Maine is funded by 14 University of Maine Foundation accounts totaling over $500,000 derived from donor support Only income from the accounts is used to support scholarships and necessary expenses The principal donations remain forever

An out of state online student in one of the five degree/certificate options takes advantage of e tuition which is in-state*1.25 (Fall 2023 undergrad $500/credit, graduate $732/credit). If not enrolled in an online program these costs would be $1158 and $1696 respectively so the economic advantage of being degree or certificate seeking is demonstrative.Online education combined with the e tuition rate allows us to currently have students from 41 states and 3 foreign countries

SVT has just entered into an educational agreement with Topcon Corporation Essentially Topcon will be replacing all equipment and software on a 3-year cycle at no cost This allows us to always be teaching from the latest and greatest surveying tools This equipment is shown in lectures in all our classes. In situations where fieldwork is deemed necessary in a class an online student finds a surveying mentor near their home that provides equipment support. Topcon, AutoDesk, Carlson, Blue Marble, and ESRI provide software to all remote students at free or extremely discounted student version prices

ONLINE SURVEYING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MAINE - CONTINUED

Many perspective students are obviously initially scared of the concept of a completely remote education.The faculty have all the standard communication mechanisms such as office hours, academic advising, questions and answers, etc but it is performed on an internet-based mechanism such as Zoom Many graduates feel the need to come to graduation simply to say they have been to campus at least once They are rewarded with some special SVT graduation festivities outside of the traditional university one A perspective student can view some example lectures and homework to learn how the process exists successfully in a remote environment

The licensure process has an educational component in all 50 states A working surveyor seeking licensure (perhaps with a family) cannot economically leave work for a live education The evolution of technology has brought the education to the surveyor

SVT encourages contact.If you have any questions about educational opportunities at the University of Maine, please contact Ray Hintz at ray.hintz@maine.edu.

Attendee registration is now open! Check out the great line up of sessions and speakers! There will also be opportunities at the conference to network with others in the surveying community We will also be hosting a “Member Appreciation Party” on Monday evening after the banquet full of games, live music, snacks, and beverages. This is a members-only event that you won’t want to miss!

Interested in being an exhibitor or sponsor? Check out the many ways you can market your company to the land surveying profession in Pennsylvania! We have revamped the sponsorship packages to give companies more exposure and recognition

View the conference website for more details.

Rodriguez Workforce Development Program

Check out this innovative workforce development program. The 4th cohort is starting. The program has jump started new careers for many individuals in surveying!

Partner:

Workforce Development: Rodriguez University

Introduction to Infrastructure

South Kensington, Philadelphia, PA

Partner:

FUNDING PARTNERS:

Spring Point Partners (2020)

Microsoft (2021, 2022)

PROJECT DATES:

2020 (Cohort #1), 2021 (Cohort #2), 2022 (Cohort #3)

Rodriguez University, a division of Rodriguez, has partnered with Hopeworks and PowerCorpsPHL to design and implement a workforce development program geared towards careers in civil engineering and land surveying that do not require a college degree "Introduction to Infrastructure" is a 16-week (100+ hours) program that involves a series of interactive learning experiences designed to introduce basic but vital concepts, ignite student's interest in the built world around us, and equip them with the skills needed to enter the job market.

Each week, new topics are introduced to the class that relate to careers in infrastructure. The program begins with a deep dive into the history of Philadelphia’s underground infrastructure and transportation systems. By the end of the program, students have gained knowledge in engineering scale, utility plan interpretation, field data collection, stormwater systems, CAD/GIS, and various other skills in preparation for obtaining an internship or permanent position

COURSE TOPICS:

●History of Philadelphia Infrastructure

●PA One Call Notifications

●Utility Coordination

●Google Workspace

●CAD Drafting, GIS, and 3D Modeling

●Route & Topographic Surveys

●Philadelphia City Plans

●Highway Supervisor’s Plans

●Interpreting Water, Sewer & Stormwater Plans

●Interpreting Gas, Electric, & Telecom Plans

Hopeworks

Dan Rhoton, Executive Director dan@hopeworks org

PowerCorpsPHL Julia Hillengas Executive Director juliahillengas@educationworks.org

Member Spotlight

Troy A. Leighty

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am Troy A Leighty, residing in tranquil North Huntingdon Township of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania My life is enriched by a 23-year marriage to my wife and our son who works as a machinist I pursued an education at Pittsburgh Technical Institute and Westmoreland Community College, paving the way for a career in surveying and mapping With a quarter-century of experience under my belt, I've dedicated a significant portion of my life to the surveying field. Currently licensed in both Pennsylvania and West Virginia, my professional home for the past 18 years has been within the Survey Department at Morris Knowles & Associates, Inc.

What is the most unique project you have worked on, and why?

One project that stands out is monitoring elevation on a gas pipeline during long wall mining operations The uniqueness lies in the dynamic challenges this project presents Imagine checking your back sight and discovering a vertical shift of 6 to 8 feet within just 24 hours due to ground collapse without any visible cues of change. It's an unnerving scenario that requires immense reliance on skills, experience, and equipment to navigate. The constant need for adaptability and precision in such conditions truly sets this project apart.

Did you have a mentor, and if so, how did it affect your career?

Indeed, mentorship has been a cornerstone of my journey I've been fortunate to learn from several mentors, each leaving a significant impact on my skills from both field and office perspectives Their guidance provided me with practical insights, problem-solving strategies, and an understanding of the nuances of the profession One mentor's belief in me transformed a missed opportunity into a promotion to department coordinator, propelling me onto a path towards licensure. Mentorship was the bridge that connected my experiences into a career as a Professional Land Surveyor

What advice can you give to young surveyors?

To the next generation of surveyors, I offer these insights: Embrace new technology and experiences The ever-changing landscape of technology demands an open mind and willingness to adapt. While learning from mentors is invaluable, mastering newer technology will be key to your future in the surveying career. Approach challenges with enthusiasm, and don't underestimate your potential. You might surprise yourself with your abilities and experience Stay committed to excellence, integrity, and adaptability as these are your greatest assets

If you were reincarnated as a famous landmark, what would it be and why?

As a surveyor, I'd humorously dread being reincarnated as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The idea of always being slightly "out of plumb" would drive a surveyor to madness. The tower's unique tilt, a blend of architectural marvel and imperfection, mirrors the delicate balance we seek in our work striving for accuracy while navigating the unexpected

Tell us an interesting or funny surveying story.

In my early days, I encountered a mentor with scribbles in the "Boundary Retracement and Principle and Procedures for Pennsylvania" book. I was taken aback by his audacity to correct Dr. Knud Hermansen's work. Later, I found myself in this coworker’s cubicle discussing a project when he dialed the University of Maine, and Dr Hermansen answered Turns out, they had a longstanding connection, and he was assisting in making corrections for new volumes of the book This tale underscores the depth of mentorship and the unanticipated connections that thread through our professional lives

ADDITIONAL RECORDED WEBINARS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE!

Do you need more credits for your PLS license renewal or are you looking to expand your professional development? The Pennsylvania Land Surveying Institute (PLS Institute) is a hub for recorded webinars on essential topics to the surveying profession It was launched in August 2022, and earlier this year, we doubled the number of recorded webinars available!

All PLS Institute recorded webinars are eligible for credit/Professional Development Hours (PDHs) in Pennsylvania We hope this allows you to learn and earn credit/PDHs when it is most convenient, to further your professional development at your own pace

There are currently fourteen archived webinars available for purchase. Pricing is $50 per hour for members and $70 for non-members The webinars vary in length from 1-3 hours Make sure to log into your PSLS online account to get the member discount

JOB BOARD

Lead Boundary Surveyor - NPS ESP ProgramHarrisburg, PA

Boundary Surveyor Technician - NPS ESP Program - Harrisburg, PA

Professional Land Surveyor - RK&K - Baltimore, MD

Surveyor 1 - PA Game Commission - Franklin, PA

VIEW MORE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Books Available

Mike Brinkash recently released his updated 2nd Edition of Pennsylvania Boundary Commissions and Case Reviews Purchase it here

Dr Knud Hermansen’s popular book, Boundary Retracement Principles and Procedures for Pennsylvania, is also available for purchase. Order it here.

View all the books available through the PSLS store here.

TRIG-STAR HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS COMPETITION

By: Michael Given, NSPS Director

The Pennsylvania Land Surveyors’ Foundation sponsored the 2023 Trig-Star High School Mathematics Competition hosted by Penn State Wilkes-Barre on March 24, 2023. Trig-Star is an annual High School Mathematics Competition sponsored by the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) and the local sponsor. The goal is to recognize and challenge the best students of mathematics from among school districts across the United States utilizing a competition with awards. The purpose of the Trig-Star program is:

To build an awareness of surveying and mapping as a profession among math high school students, career guidance counselors, and high school math teachers;

To acquaint high school students with the use and practical applications of mathematics in the surveying professions;

To promote real world applications of mathematics in high school;

To honor high school students who have demonstrated their superior skill among classmates at the local, state and national levels

Thirty-two students from four local high schools participated in the daylong event. We started the morning off with the one-hour Trig-Star Mathematics Competition administered by PSLS President Pete Brothers and NSPS Director Michael Given. Penn State Wilkes-Barre Assistant Professor Henrique Oliveira and students in the surveying engineering program provided survey equipment demonstrations. After lunch the students participated in campus tours followed by a presentation by an alum of the surveying engineering program at Penn State Wilkes-Barre We ended the day with the Trig-Star Awards Ceremony NSPS and the Pennsylvania Land Surveyors’ Foundation congratulates the following Trig-Star winners that will receive a plaque commemorating the event:

First Place – Amir Samadian, 12th grade, Wilkes-Barre Area STEM Academy

Second place – Oscar Arroyo-Mejia, 11th grade, Wilkes-Barre Area STEM Academy

Third place – Tyler Benjamin, 11th grade, Wilkes-Barre Area STEM Academy

First Place winner Amir Samadian also received the Penn State Wilkes-Barre trophy for the 2023 Trig-Star Mathematics Competition to display at Wilkes-Barre Area STEM Academy until next year’s competition.

NSPS and the Pennsylvania Land Surveyors’ Foundation wish to thank Penn State Wilkes-Barre for hosting the event and also a special thanks to all of their staff that made the 2023 Trig-Star Mathematics Competition a great success

SURVEY SAYS! CAREER NOT JUST FOR THE FELLAS

By: Kathryn Finegan Clark

This was originally printed in the Bucks County Herald

Cynthia L. “Cindy” Skoriak, of Durham Township, is one of the 6% of land surveyors who happen to be women. Cynthia L. “Cindy” Skoriak spends her working days in a job almost completely dominated by men. It’s also a kind of under-the-radar occupation that is a mystery to most people.

The Durham Township woman is a land surveyor, the only female surveyor I’ve ever known or heard of, actually Career experts claim only 6% of surveyors are women It is a demanding career that is both science and art

Cindy, both a mother and grandmother, is following in the footsteps of some noteworthy men who once made their living as surveyors George Washington, Lewis and Clark and Mason and Dixon, for example Land surveying is the basis for all our roads and buildings and division of parcels of land. Cindy traces her interest in measuring land back to her childhood days.

‘‘I was born in Oklahoma,” she said “We later lived in Wyoming, Kansas and Illinois My parents would frequently travel back to Oklahoma and I was that kid in the back of the station wagon reading maps to try to figure out exactly where we were ”

She believes a drafting class she took in high school also headed her in the direction of her lifelong career And there was her native ability to be able to comprehend an object, to actually “see” it in three dimensions. “That’s a gift,” she said, believing a person either has it or doesn’t. Cindy graduated from the College of Wooster in Ohio with a degree in urban planning. She and her husband, Neil, moved to Durham in the 1970s.

A 40-year veteran in the field, she spent years stomping around through woods and hills and valleys with a team of surveyors calculating the height, depth, relative position and property lines of pieces of land

She said, “I started out working in a three-person crew ” My lettering, my penmanship was good so I became the note keeper, making notes in a little yellow book I got a lot of exercise ” She works in the office now at First Order LLC, a surveying firm in Bethlehem, reviewing commercial plans STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) is big news in education today but it wasn’t when Cindy was in school Her special love was geometry and that’s the basis of surveying

When Cindy first started work, the tools were simpler than today; now surveyors use a digital theodolite, a kind of telescope that measures horizontal and vertical angles, and sometimes even drones. The principles, though, are the same as the ones used to lay out plans for Stonehenge in 3500 B.C.

Cindy said she only once encountered overt discrimination as a woman in a man’s field She said it came from a municipal official who didn’t really know her or her work Male co-workers were always supportive and helpful, especially when she was new at the job “They were really patient in giving me time to learn,” she said

She was to be part of a team and they needed her work to be very good Cindy is treasurer of the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors. She has also served for years, either as member or alternate, with the Durham Township Planning Commission, work she said she has always enjoyed.

Kathryn Finegan Clark is a freelance writer who lives in Durham Township. She can be reached at kathyclark817@gmail.com.

The West Virginia Society of Professional Surveyors cordially invites you to their 2023 Fall Symposium, being held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Huntington, WV on October 5-6, 2023. The theme is focused on "Mapping the Future for the Surveying Profession." Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in valuable continuing education seminars led by experts and thought leaders from both the state and the wider region

REPRESENTATIVE JOHN JOYCE MEETS WITH PSLS MEMBERS IN GETTYSBURG

On August 2, C.S. Davidson, Inc.’s Gettysburg office hosted Representative John Joyce who represents Pennsylvania’s 13th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Some South Central chapter members attended as well as others from Eric’s office, John Palatiello, JB Byrd, and Rep. Joyce’s staff. They talked about the surveying profession and “The Sense of Congress” resolution. Rep. Joyce’s dad was a surveyor It was a productive meeting! Thanks to Eric Gladhill for helping to organize this meeting!

PLS FOUNDATION FANTASY FOOTBALL

PSLS and the PLS Foundation are excited to facilitate the 3rd annual Fantasy Football League. All proceeds will go to the PLS Foundation to support its scholarship programs. Good luck to the participating teams listed below. The winner will receive rights to the championship trophy and have their name engraved on it.

Urban Distilling (Randy Miller)

Legion of Doom (Richard Shewman)

Team Brothers (Pete Brothers)

Step2TheSide (Michael Kreiger)

Philly Philly Spellmania (Dave Spellman)

Urban Bourbon (Logan Sayre)

Ghost Riders (Katherine Shewman)

PLI n’ at (Chris Walker)

Urban Terrain Utes (Derek Horneman)

King Henry’s Surveyors (Christine Kent)

Big Mikes Posse It’s a Given (Mike Given)

Control Pnt FT Warren, NJ (John Lynch)

The Plane Crash That Gave Americans GPS

From Blender Blades to Helicopter Blades Colorizing Lidar Point Clouds

Exclusive Report from the FIG Working Week in Orlando

Monuments Going Up in Smoke

BEFORE YOU GO......

Markets: Stocks inched up, ending a four-day skid as worries over interest rates and a possible government shutdown were offset by renewed optimism around AI. AMC, the stock that launched a thousand memes, climbed almost 7% after the WGA’s tentative deal with Hollywood studios ensured investors that there will actually be new movies to show in theaters next year

Random Headlines:

The richest billionaire in your state with this map.

Ultimate fall colors bucket list: 10 U S destinations you need to see #1 is in PA!

This website lets you visualize almost every US company’s supply chain

Watch this condensed evolutionary history of the human brain

Ever wonder what’s inside Big Ben Spoiler: a lot of bells

Panorama views of scenic places in the world

Football season is sandwich season, so here’s the best one in every state

A deeply satisfying YouTube channel devoted solely to videos of a hydraulic press smooshing household items

Geography Trivia

We’ll give you a US airport and you have to name the most popular domestic destination from that airport (as of May 2023). Example: If we said Salt Lake City, the correct answer would be Denver.

Boston Logan International

Detroit Metro Wayne County

Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental

Los Angeles International

Newark Liberty International

Philadelphia International

Charlotte Douglas International

We’ll give you a dish, and you have to name the US state most closely associated with that dish.

Apizza

Green chile cheeseburger

Hotdish

Sugar cream pie

Toasted ravioli

Taylor Ham

ANSWERS ON PAGE 24

“Identify your problems, but give your power and energy to solutions.”

TONY ROBBINS

PSLS OFFICERS

State Directors

Allegheny Heartlands Chapter: Joseph Hood, PLS & James Mostoller, PLS

Bucks Chapter: Brian Yorkiewicz, PLS & David Spellman

Delaware Valley Chapter: Jason Bertzos, PLS & Karl Kriegh, PLS

Harrisburg Chapter: John Clark III , PLS & James Hartman, PLS

Laurel Highlands Chapter: Ryan Deglau & Randall Myers, PLS

Lehigh Valley Chapter: Stephen Ombalski, PLS & Arthur Swallow, PLS

Mid-State Chapter: David Archibald, PLS & Gregory Shufran, PLS

North Central Chapter: K Robert Cunningham, PLS

Northeast Chapter: Glenn Johnson, PLS & Brent Birth, PLS

Northwest Chapter: Ryan Courtney, PLS & Allen Yard, PLS

Pocono Chapter: Gregg Davis, PLS & Brian Zick, PLS

Reading Chapter: John Fuehrer, PLS & John Huck, PLS

South Central Chapter: Thomas Farcht, PLS & Timothy Rojahn, PLS

Southwest Chapter: Donald Groesser, PLS & Vincent Paparella, PLS

Susquehanna Chapter: Timothy Wentz, PLS & Robert Weaver, PLS

Officers:

Pete Brothers, PLS, President

Lawrence Leso, PLS, President - Elect

Dylan Sites, PLS, Vice President

Troy Leighty, PLS, Secretary

Terry, McMillen, Jr., PLS, Treasurer & Immediate

Past President

Michael Given, PLS, NSPS Director

Sustaining Member Firms

Civil Training, LLC

Attn: John Cooke

5300 Wellington Branch Drive, Suite 100 Gainesville, VA 20155

P: 732-859-8353

F: 732-377-5454

john cooke@civiltraining com

www civiltraining com

Cooper Aerial Surveys

Attn: Pete Priestner

412 East Street Rd Trevose, PA 19053

P: 800-229-2279

pete@cooperaerial com

www cooperaerial com

Keystone Precision Solutions

Attn: George Allport, Jr

1670 East Race Street Allentown, PA 18109

P: 610-266-2699

georgejr@keypre com

www keypre com

Klein Agency, LLC

Attn: Mark Amirault

PO Box 219 Timonium, MD 21094

P: 410-832-7600

F: 410-832-1849

mamirault@eakagency com

www kleinagencyllc com

Porter Consulting Engineers, P.C.

Attn: L. Ashley Porter 552 State Street, Meadville, PA 16335

P: 814-337-4447

aporter@pceengineers com

https://www pceengineers com/

Precision Laser & Instrument, Inc.

Attn: Robert J. Barth 85 11th Street Ambridge, PA 15003

P: 724-266-1600

F: 724-266-8161

rjb@laserinst com

www laserinst com

Steckbeck Engineering & Surveying, Inc.

Attn: Jason E Chernich, PLS

279 N Zinns Mill Road Lebanon, PA 17042

P: 717-272-7110

jchernich@steckbeck net

Szalankiewicz Engineering

Attn: James Szalankiewicz

PO Box 206 Elderton, PA 15736

P: 724-354-4852

sellc@windstream net

Wetland Studies & Solutions, Inc.

Attn: Eric Calladine

5300 Wellington Branch Dr , Suite 100

Gainesville, VA 20155

P: 703-679-5600

F: 703-697-5601

ecalladine@wetlandstusies com

www wetlandstudies com

ANSWER KEY

Airports:

Washington, DC (DCA)

Atlanta, GA

Denver, CO

New York City (JFK)

Orlando, FL

Orlando, FL

Orlando, FL

Dishes:

Connecticut (this is New Haven-style pizza)

New Mexico

Minnesota

Indiana (it’s also known as Hoosier pie)

Missouri (St Louis, specifically)

New Jersey (you could also controversially call it a “pork roll”)

About The Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors

The Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors (PSLS), a statewide professional organization, exists for the purpose of supporting, improving and enhancing the profession, its members, and the practice of land surveying. PSLS focuses on providing education, legislative involvement, enhancing the public awareness, and the promulgation of the ethics of the profession.