Charting the Course: Geospatial Leadership - Trailblazing

The video features an in-depth discussion on effective leadership and people development within the geospatial, defense, and intelligence communities, hosted by Karen Hayes-Ryan of Project Geospatial with trailblazing leaders Shawana Johnson (CEO, Oval Marketing Insights), Meredith Davis (VP, Govini), and Deb Davis (Board member, USGIF and OGC). The leaders detail efforts to support the next generation through extensive student internship programs and social enterprises focused on transitioning military veterans into high-tech roles. Key strategies for leadership include cultivating a culture of caring, managing succession, and identifying future talent based on traits like drive, curiosity, and flexibility. The panelists also share personal struggles—such as balancing family life with demanding careers or earning a doctorate while working full-time—and offer essential advice for navigating industry turbulence: stay flexible, focus on immediate problems ("10-meter target"), and get AI upskilled to remain relevant

Highlights:

• Clearing the Path for Youth: Shawana Johnson's company participates in high school programs and has influenced the placement of approximately 250 students over 25 years, ensuring youth gain a foundational understanding of remote sensing and geospatial technology.

• Supporting Veterans: Meredith Davis co-founded Techqual, a social enterprise providing interview, professionalism, and "quick and dirty MBA" training to help military veterans transition into high-tech careers.

• Effective Leadership Philosophy: Deb Davis views leadership as a "three-legged stool" (customer, business/capability, and people) and stresses creating a culture of caring so that people genuinely want to follow their leaders.

• Identifying Future Leaders: Panelists seek emerging leaders who are driven, curious, willing to work hard, and flexible. Leaders are often those who step through any open door and seize opportunities.

• Managing Setbacks: Failure stemming from an educated risk or hypothesis should be treated as a learning opportunity; the focus must shift immediately to determining "What did we learn from it?" and applying that knowledge.

• Raising the Bar: Meredith Davis found that managing her career while effectively single-parenting during demanding periods, including COVID, forced her to raise the bar for the quality and efficiency of time spent in both professional and personal spheres.

• Critical Industry Advice: In turbulent times, professionals should stay nimble and flexible. It is essential for the geospatial workforce to get AI upskilled to enhance their value and relevance.

For more content like this check out www.projectgeospatial.com

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