MidAmerica GIS Consortium

Opening Keynote: Dr. Nik Smilovsky

Geomotivation: Why We Rise, Why We Measure, Why It Still Matters

 Geomotivation aka GEOMO, gets geospatial professionals out of bed each morning. It acts as our internal compass, pulling us toward   the field, the map, the data, and the land itself. We feel it in the cool air before sunrise, the hum of GNSS locking onto satellites, and   the deep satisfaction of lines closing, models resolving, and projects delivered with pride. This keynote defines GEOMO as both a   personal and collective force rooted in curiosity, stewardship, and service. It is the original spark that drew us into the geospatial   professions while still fueling us through long days, tight deadlines, and an increasingly complex world.

 At a time when the global narrative feels heavy with uncertainty and rapid change, this talk offers grounded optimism. The geospatial   profession has never mattered more. From resilient infrastructure and environmental stewardship to digital twins, smart cities, and   spatial equity, our work actively shapes the future. This presentation reconnects attendees with why they chose this profession, why   their work matters, and why the future of geospatial remains bright. Hope does not live in abstraction. It rests on our shoulders, our   maps, our measurements, and through our commitment to helping others navigate the world with clarity.

John Muir wrote, “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.” Geomotivation is that hitch. The subtle or not so subtle reminder that what we do connects people, places, and possibilities. Geospatial professionals don’t just map the world. We make sense of it. That’s GEOMO!