MapPros! Careers in Geospatial Technologies

Tim Brooks

“The most exciting part about being a student is that you are able to speak with people who have been in the field for a while and obtained their Ph.D.s in their respective departments.”

“I would suggest looking into their heart. If they have a gut feeling of what is going to make them happy, go with it. Many people don’t follow their dream and end up in a career they don’t like.”

Student Profile - Tim Brooks

Class standing: Junior
College:
New England College, Henniker, NH
Major: Environmental Science
Concentrations: Land Planning and Geographic Information Systems

What or who sparked your interest in studying geospatial technologies?

My inspiration for GIS and GPS is Professor Robert Seaman. When I saw the course listed in the student catalog, I was immediately interested. Knowing that the information I gained in the class would be beneficial to my future.

What is your dream job?

My dream job would be working as a land planner for a big-name corporation such as Fuel Cell Energy, eventually becoming well known enough to open my own planning firm.

How do you see geospatial technologies helping you in your career goals?

Geospatial technologies would assist me in the operation of my future by allowing me to show a 3-D map of the location so my employer might be able to better understand the risks he or she is taking.

What were the most important things you considered when deciding on which school to go to?

When I decided to attend New England College with the knowledge that I was going to graduate with a degree in the Environmental realm, I saw that the science department in the institution was very strong and had a good job placement rate with real-world opportunities.

What do you like most about being a student?

The most exciting part about being a student is that you are able to speak with people who have been in the field for a while and obtained their Ph.D.s in their respective departments.

What do you like least about being a student?

Being a student also has its down times, such as taking classes that may not be necessary for the career you are looking into.

What do you do to relax?

During my off time, I like to go out and relax in the woods. In the winter, I go cross country skiing or dog sledding; during the spring and summer months, I like to go hiking or rock climbing with some good friends.

Who are your heroes/heroines?

My heroine is Wendy Welshans, my science teacher in high school, who brought me closer to the science world and also the world of the wild. She brought out the science geek in me.

What advice would you give a high school student trying to make education and career choices?

I would suggest looking into their heart. If they have a gut feeling of what is going to make them happy, go with it. Many people don’t follow their dream and end up in a career they don’t like.

E-mail: tpbrooks@nec.edu