MapPros! Careers in Geospatial Technologies

Adena Schutzberg

"It’s really easy to get up everyday and write about things/topics you love. I’m lucky I found something I care about and have the privilege of sharing my excitement with others."

Editor - Adena Schutzberg

Field: Publishing
Job Title: Editor
Place of Employment: GITC America, Frederick, Maryland

What is your current job and what does it entail?

I write a weekly online publication about geographic information systems and related technologies. I also edit a monthly print magazine about remote sensing and geospatial technologies. I do a good deal of writing and researching. I read quite a lot, interview people and get to try out new products. I also speak at and attend professional meetings.

In your day-to-day activities, who are the people that you interact with regularly?

I interact with the staff of the publishing company some, but mostly I’m interacting with hardware and software developers and people who use this technology. Most are very passionate about what they do; that makes my job easier!

For your position, what skills do you need in geospatial technologies?

You need a good basic understanding of GIS, remote sensing, and GPS. It also helps to know about related fields like surveying, engineering, construction and computer aided design (CAD).

For your position, what skills outside of geospatial technologies are required?

You need to be able to read and write well. I find that my experience speaking helps quite a bit, too. (I was a teacher once…)

What was the key factor in your career decision?

I’ve worked with the technology for about 15 years and the chance to share what I learn about it with readers was very exciting. I also like the idea that I have quite a bit of control over what goes into the different publications.

What do you like most about your career?

I learn something new everyday! And, I get to speak to some very interesting people.

What do you like least about your career?

Deadlines are a challenge. Sometimes I’m up very late writing and sending out my e-mail publication. Other times, we are racing to get a final layout to the printer.

What do you do to relax?

I like to run and play the clarinet.

Who are your heroes/heroines?

That’s a hard question. I think the one thing they all have in common is the ability to take some complex idea and not only explain it so "regular people" can understand it, but also make it interesting. I admire that ability and try to develop it myself.

What advice would you give a high school student who expressed an interest in pursuing a career in your field?

Be excited about it. Being interested in one small corner of this technology will nearly always lead you to new areas.

Are career opportunities in your field increasing or decreasing and why?

The demand for magazine editors is perhaps decreasing as competition heats up. But the demand for good, clear writing is definitely in demand for marketing, research and other areas.

E-mail: adena@gitcamerica.com

Comments:

It’s really easy to get up everyday and write about things/topics you love. I’m lucky I found something I care about and have the privilege of sharing my excitement with others.

Degree Major Institution

B.S.

Chemistry

Univ. of Chicago

B.A.

Geography

Univ. of Chicago

M.S.

Geography

Penn State