How Do I Get Involved with MAPPS?
Volunteering with MAPPS is a great way to contribute your expertise, build connections, and support the advancement of the geospatial profession. By serving on committees, helping with events, or sharing knowledge, volunteers play a vital role in strengthening the MAPPS community and shaping the industry's future.
Board of Directors
Being part of the MAPPS Board of Directors means having the opportunity to help shape the future of the geospatial profession. It’s a chance to collaborate with industry leaders, advocate for policies that support private sector mapping and geospatial firms, and promote innovation and best practices across the field. Serving on the board is both an honor and a responsibility—to represent our members’ interests and help guide the strategic direction of the organization. Click here to learn more about the Board nominations process.
Getting involved in MAPPS committees is a meaningful way to contribute to the advancement of the geospatial profession while helping shape the direction of the organization. Committees focus on key areas such as legislation, membership, and program development—giving members the chance to apply their expertise and collaborate on industry-wide initiatives. Participation offers valuable networking opportunities, enhances your professional visibility, and allows you to play an active role in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the private geospatial community.
The MAPPS Federal Liaisons program is a valuable way to engage directly with key federal agencies that utilize geospatial services. As a liaison, you’ll help represent the private geospatial sector, provide industry insights, and strengthen communication between MAPPS member firms and federal partners. This role offers a unique opportunity to stay informed about agency initiatives, influence procurement practices, and ensure the voice of the private sector is heard in policy and program development. It's an excellent way to make a professional impact while supporting the broader geospatial community.
MAPPS Forums are a great way to connect with peers who share common interests, challenges, and market sectors within the geospatial profession. Forums provide a space for open dialogue, idea exchange, and collaboration on issues specific to special interests, such as aviation, small business, or emerging markets. By participating, you can stay current on industry trends, share best practices, and help shape the direction of MAPPS initiatives in your area of expertise. It's a practical and rewarding way to engage with the MAPPS community and contribute to the growth of the profession.
The MAPPS Emerging Leaders Program is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the geospatial profession. Aimed at professionals in middle management positions within MAPPS member firms, the program offers specialized education sessions that focus on essential business and leadership skills. Participants also have the opportunity to engage directly with MAPPS Board of Directors during networking events, fostering valuable connections and mentorship opportunities.
“MAPPS provides an opportunity to advance one’s knowledge in the geospatial field by providing members information on new technologies, trends, and funding opportunities. The MAPPS organization encourages exchange of ideas and communication through networking. As a board member it is very rewarding to share the ideas and the talents of other MAPPS volunteers to strengthen our geospatial community.”
Renee Walmsley, PMP, GISP
Vice President, Tetra Tech