WGIC had a dynamic participation at INTERGEO 2024 from September 24-26 in Stuttgart, Germany. We hosted three insightful side events featuring industry experts from WGIC member companies who discussed critical topics shaping the future of geospatial technology – the potential of earth observation for sustainability, the future of infrastructure, and a panel dedicated to bridging the workforce gap. 

Beyond these side events, WGIC also held the quarterly Board Meeting, engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with INTERGEO TV about industry growth and the workforce gap, and hosted the DEI Trailblazer Awards ceremony, celebrating exemplary efforts in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across the industry. 

At WGIC, we leveraged the opportunities INTERGEO presented for networking, knowledge-sharing, and staying abreast with the latest technology trends. We utilized the ideal environment to connect and support our members, many of whom exhibited at the event, as well as engage with new, like-minded individuals and companies who share a passion for geospatial innovation. These exchanges are key to inspiring future partnerships and membership growth.  

Bridging the Workforce Gap: Inclusivity in Workforce Development in the Geospatial Sector 

WGIC hosted the panel discussion ‘Bridging the Workforce Gap: Inclusivity in Workforce Development in the Geospatial Sector.’ Moderated by WGIC’s Kuhelee Chandel, the session brought together industry and academic leaders, including Eva Carranza (Hexagon), Elshan Musayev (EKM Global), Britta Ricker (Utrecht University), Marianna Kopsida (Trimble), and Ted Knaak (TopoDOT). 

The panel explored strategies to foster inclusivity across the geospatial workforce segments, emphasizing the importance of diverse talent in advancing AR and 3D geospatial solutions. Discussions also addressed academia’s critical role in preparing future professionals and offered practical steps for building inclusive teams capable of nurturing innovation. 

Following the panel, WGIC celebrated the achievements of the 2024 DEI Trailblazers at a scintillating award ceremony. 

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s awardees for their outstanding contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the geospatial industry: 

• Albert Anoubon Momo – Individual Champion Award 

• Deepspatial – Corporate Impact Award 

• Women+ in Geospatial – DEI Advocacy Award 

Unlocking the Potential of Earth Observation for a Sustainable Future

Moderated by Aaron Addison, the panel titled “Unlocking the Potential of Earth Observation for a Sustainable Future” featured insights from industry experts Minda Suchan (MDA Space), Prashanth Marpu (Bayanat), Kate Fickas (Esri), and Chris Newlands (Space Aye). The panel explored the transformative role of satellite imagery, and geospatial data in addressing key sustainability challenges.  

Future of Infrastructure 

The session titled “Future of Infrastructure” featured insights from industry experts Peter Rummel (Bentley Systems), Larry Fox (Bad Elf), Dejan Vasic (DATADEV), Andrew Carey (Esri), Chris Trevillian (Trimble). The session was moderated by Aaron Addison of WGIC. 

This year, discussions centered on the transformative potential of generative AI. As an emerging technology, generative AI is poised to accelerate innovation across both the geospatial and earth observation sectors. WGIC members are already exploring where this technology can deliver value, from automating complex data analysis to generating actionable insights. During the session, panelists highlighted how AI has the power to redefine workflows, enhance efficiency, and unlock new possibilities to address geospatial challenges more effectively. 

We Spoke to INTERGEO TV 

“We anticipate that the geospatial industry will double in size over the next six years, leading to around 80,000 job openings on any given day. However, with the slower growth in academic programs, we are facing a clear workforce gap,” said WGIC Executive Director Aaron Addison during an interview with Denise Wenzel for INTERGEO TV.  

During the interview, Addison emphasized WGIC’s unique position as the only global nonprofit trade association representing commercial geospatial and Earth observation companies, advancing critical initiatives in climate action, policy, and diversity through collaboration with partners. He also underscored the need to make geospatial education more accessible, noting that policy barriers often outweigh technical challenges. Additionally, he highlighted the role of events such as INTERGEO in fostering connections, inspiring the next generation of professionals, and showcasing cutting-edge innovations from across the industry. 

The interactions at INTERGEO 2024 have reinforced our belief that collaboration within the industry is essential. By working together and sharing insights, we can push the boundaries of what is possible in geospatial innovation and contribute meaningfully to the complex challenges of the world. We look forward to continuing these conversations, forging stronger ties, and leveraging the latest technological advancements to drive the industry forward.