We're excited to launch a new ILGISA Board Spotlight series, designed to introduce you to the dedicated members of our Board of Directors. Each installment will highlight a different board member, offering a glimpse into their professional background, current role, and passion for GIS. Through this series, we hope to foster stronger connections within our community and celebrate the individuals guiding our organization.
Adam Aull, Education Committee Chair
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got started in GIS?
During my undergraduate years at Northern Illinois University, I was studying computer science prior to getting into geography and focusing on geographic information systems. I was told about GIS from a fellow student and after meeting with department staff, decided GIS was the path for me. Studying geography and GIS allowed me to follow a career that has diversity and the potential to change from day-to-day. With the integration of Python, Arcade, and other programming languages I am able to utilize my computer program skills to enhance the solutions and data analysis required by my organization.
What is your current role, and how does GIS play a part in your work?
My role as the GIS Administrator of Danville is multifaceted. I oversee the development, maintenance and storage of geographic data as the database manager. This data is then made available through various homebrew solutions that are developed by the GIS staff and myself.
How long have you been involved with ILGISA?
Beginning in year one of my career, all the way back to 2001, I have been involved with ILGISA. Over the past 24 years, I have participated with the organization in multiple ways including lightning talks, presentations, articles, and more.
What are some key initiatives or projects you've been involved in as a board member?
My involvement on the Board has seen the development of the new strategic plan and the revision of the student award nomination form.
What’s one achievement or milestone you’re particularly proud of during your time on the board?
Completing the ILGISA 3-year strategic plan was a highlight of my time on the Board. Being a part of the team determining the goals and objectives for this organization has really put into perspective the good ILGISA does for the GIS community.
What challenges do GIS professionals face today, and how can organizations like ours help?
GIS professionals are faced with an ever-increasing number of tasks, information, responsibilities, and changing technology. They are more often than not required to wear many hats to provide the products required by their organizations. Members of ILGISA are able to tap into the knowledge and skills of colleagues, review solutions from others, and stay versed on emerging technology.
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the GIS field?
Anyone seeking a career in GIS should explore the diversity of jobs available. This includes, but is not limited to, data analysis, application development, research, remote sensing. Smaller organizations may provide opportunities to work on a wider scope of projects, while larger organizations may need more focused skills and knowledge. The broad coverage of GIS technology is able to supply something for everyone.
Are there any GIS tools or technologies you’re particularly excited about right now?
The ArcGIS Online platform by Esri is ever-changing and growing. Many of the GIS solutions consumed by my organization are available there. With the expansion of the Arcade scripting language, I am able to customize the experience of our maps and applications to the needs of the end-users. Each development project gives me a better understanding on how to manipulate these interfaces, therefore creating more intuitive solutions for my users.
What’s your favorite GIS-related project you’ve worked on?
One of the more recent projects I have just finished is definitely top of the list. This project allows city mowing crews to keep track of their properties, mow times, acreage, etc. For many years, the mowing was performed by quantitative analysis only. With this new tracking data, I have combined qualitative analysis into the decision-making process. It allows for better acquisition and use of city resources, reduces overall budgetary requirement, and time management.
Do you have a favorite map or GIS application that has inspired you?
No single application can be identified as inspiration, rather it's the collective influence of my colleagues' work. Each year the ILGISA conference bring together the wonderful GIS professionals of Illinois. Talking with them and seeing their work spurs me toward creating powerful solutions for users within my organization. ILGISA is definitely at the top of my list when it comes to finding inspiration.
Outside of work, do you have any hobbies or interests you would like to share?
Years ago, I began mountain biking on the trails in the local state park. Many hours have been spent enjoying the outdoors. I've even created a StoryMap allowing visitors to the park a virtual tour of the trail system.
What’s one fun fact about you that people might not know?
I have been awarded 2 of the Esri Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) awards for outstanding work for my organization. These awards came in 2014 and 2019.
What goals do you have for the organization moving forward?
One of my goals is to continue making ILGISA a community engagement organization. It is my belief that GIS professionals must create relationships among their colleagues for professional development. Each of us, from time-to-time, runs across something in GIS that stumps us. These relationships are vital to expansion of our knowledge and skills.
How can members of the GIS community get more involved in ILGISA?
ILGISA offers multiple events and activities through the year. Regional meetings rotate geographically around the State, webinars provide a way to connect without the need for traveling, and the annual conference brings a majority of GIS professionals, from various industries, together in a multi-day event.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
As GIS professional we must never stop learning and growing. As the technology progresses, we also adapt and change. Bettering ourselves serves to better the products we create to support, enhance, and improve our organizations.
