Geomatics Atlantic 2014: Connecting in St. John’s, Nfld

Next month, Geomatics Atlantic returns to St. John’s, Newfoundland for only the fifth time in the conference’s 30 year history. Around 100 people are expected to attend this annual regional conference, organized by the Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the Canadian Institute of Geomatics (CIG-NL).

This conference presents a unique opportunity for geomatics professionals from Newfoundland and Labrador to meet their colleagues from the other Maritime provinces and exchange ideas. This is something they don’t often get the chance to do; because of the size and geography of this large territory, networking is often difficult. At Geomatics Atlantic, participants will have the chance to see a side of geomatics that is particular to the Newfoundland region, from oceans and fisheries, to mining, oil, and gas.

The three-day program is packed with sessions and talks, including topics such as “Geomatics for the Environment,” “Use of Geospatial Information to Reduce Risk,” and “The Use of Geomatics in Healthcare,” to name a few.

Kicking off the conference with his keynote address will be Adam Klaptocz, the head of hardware and mechanical engineering for Sensefly, as well as the president and co-founder of non-profit Drones Adventures. He’ll be discussing Sensefly’s drones and latest technologies.

Another keynote speaker you won’t want to miss is Ed Parsons, geospatial technologist at Google and well-known player in the mapping industry and government sector. Ed will be talking about Google’s latest technology with respect to geomatics.

In addition to the program of speakers and workshops, Geomatics Atlantic will also feature exhibitor booths and an exhibitor’s reception, giving participants the opportunity to network and mingle with various vendors. Some noted exhibitors include Caris, Esri Canada, Stantec, and Integrated Informatics Inc.

Geomatics Atlantic 2014 is encouraging students to participate by offering discounted student registration fees. As the only regular geomatics conference in Newfoundland, it’s a great opportunity for students to network with other geomatics professionals for the first time, and get a closer look at what’s going on in the sector. This year, for the first time ever, they will be announcing the first student scholarship program recipient from the Newfoundland and Labrador branch!

“Our organization’s main goal is to connect people interested in geomatics,” says Rodolphe Devillers, Chair of the CIG-NL. “We think the sharing of ideas and expertise contributes to a stronger geomatics profession. We are proud to help support this important goal in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.”

The Geomatics Atlantic 2014 conference is taking place November 3-5, at the Delta St. John’s, in St. John’s, Newfoundland. To register, visit their website at www.geoatlantic.org.