Archives: News

When Clients Ignore Advice: Lessons from Case History #2

In the latest episode of the GBA Podcast’s Case History series, hosts Elizabeth Brown, P.E. (JLT Consultants), and Abi Corbett (SME) explore a cautionary real-world scenario that underscores a central truth for geoprofessional consultants: risk often increases when sound engineering judgment is dismissed.

The episode examines GBA Case History #2, involving a geotechnical investigation for a custom home built along the flank of a ridge. The GBA member firm identified expansive clay soils and provided clear recommendations to mitigate potential damage, including avoiding slab-on-grade construction and implementing proper drainage controls. However, the project proceeded under a handshake agreement, and critical guidance was not followed.

As Brown notes, the situation ultimately resulted in preventable failure: “The builder would create a risk of significant damage if it opted for a slab on grade basement floor.” That risk became reality when the basement experienced cracking, buckling, and water infiltration shortly after construction.

The discussion brings the case to life with practical insights, including the risks associated with residential projects, the importance of written agreements, and how overlooking construction-phase observation can leave firms exposed. As Corbett puts it, “Ignoring your geotechnical engineer is… pretty much a terrible idea.”

Rather than simply revisiting what went wrong, the hosts emphasize actionable lessons geoprofessionals can apply immediately—from identifying high-risk clients to reinforcing “confirmation-dependent recommendations” and knowing when it may be prudent to settle disputes and move forward.

This episode offers a valuable reminder that even routine projects can evolve into high-risk situations without proper controls, documentation, and client alignment.

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts.

New Best Practices: Lessons from 500+ Years of Geoprofessional Experience

What drives long-term success in the geoprofessional industry? GBA’s new Best Practices resource, GeoHeroes: Lessons from 500+ Years of Experience – Repeatable Behaviors of High-Performing Geoprofessionals, distills lessons from 26 GeoHeroes podcast interviews representing more than 500 years of combined professional experience. The result is practical, field-tested guidance that can help professionals strengthen their careers, support stronger firms, and improve outcomes for clients.

The document synthesizes recurring themes identified across interviews with respected industry leaders, highlighting repeatable behaviors that consistently appeared among successful geoprofessionals. The guidance is practical, accessible, and relevant across career stages. It also reinforces behaviors that help reduce risk, build trust, and improve organizational performance over time.

Key takeaways include:
• Reliability builds trust. Meeting commitments and communicating proactively creates credibility.
• People skills matter. Long-term growth requires developing leadership and communication abilities alongside technical expertise.
• Growth often comes through discomfort. Challenging assignments and new responsibilities can create the greatest opportunities.

Not sure if your firm is a GBA member? Learn about member benefits:

From Technical Talent to Trusted Advisors: Summer 2026 Embark Class Graduates

GBA congratulates the 24 graduates of the Geoprofessional Career Ascent Program (GCAP) Embark class, who completed the 10-week course to build consulting fundamentals on June 18, 2026.

June 2026 Embark Graduates

• Conner Aichlmayr, STRATA
• Jillyan Baskin, M.S., G.I.T, Froehling & Robertson
• Samuel Beckett, Geotechnical Consultants, Inc.
• Renae Cook, P.E., SME
• Tommy Crisp, E.I.T., Terracon
• Saul Cuautle, P.E., Diaz Yourman & Associates
• Luke Espindola, McPhail Associates
• Nick Godbout, STRATA
• Connor Henningsen, McPhail Associates
• Lauren Herbert, E.I.T, G.I.T, Geocon Consultants
• Alicia Homeszyn, P.E., SME
• Lizam Kalaskas, ECS Group
• Dane Kottiel, E.I.T., Bunnell-Lammons Engineering
• Chaitanya (KC) Kukutla, P.E., Diaz Yourman & Associates
• Jimmy Marielli, Geotechnical Consultants, Inc.
• Baker McGinnis, Geo-Technology Associates
• Savannah Means, G.I.T., Bunnell-Lammons Engineering
• Kevin Morgan, P.E., Bunnell-Lammons Engineering
• Abby Noel, E.I.T., Terracon
• Jackelyn Rillo, ENV SP, GPM, PMI-CPMAI, GFT
• Stewart Thompson, BSK Associates
• Vivian Wallace, Earth Systems
• Chris Willhite, S&ME
• Gregory Zuill, ECS Group

Reflections on the Class and Graduate Feedback

During the graduation ceremony, GBA leaders and participants reflected on the value of the program, the importance of trusted advisor skills, and the connections built across the class.

“The technical knowledge that you’ve gained through your formal college educations and thus far in your career is really essential. But clients rarely judge us solely on our technical expertise. We know that. They judge us on our ability to solve problems, to communicate clearly, to build trust,” said GBA President Dan Schaefer, who also told the graduates that, “The future of our profession isn’t something that happens to you – it’s something that’s going to be shaped by you.”

What Did Graduates Learn in Embark?  

“One thing I never really thought about was how one decision for me could affect our scope, our schedule, our budget, our client relationship, and what kind of risks are involved.” — Samuel Beckett, Geotechnical Consultants

“Great geoprofessionals don’t just solve problems, they align people, communicate early, and build trust.” — Vivian Wallace, Earth Systems

More About the Embark Class

Embark is the first class of GCAP, a structured professional development pathway within GBA’s Career Continuum designed to grow geoprofessionals from early career through senior leadership. The class introduces early-career professionals to essential consulting tools and professional competencies they can apply immediately in their daily work. LEARN MORE

Through live virtual sessions, participants explored consulting fundamentals, communication, soft skills, ethics, proposals, business development, contracts, risk management, and project management.

GBA is currently accepting rolling nominations for the Fall 2026 Embark (early professionals) and Ascend (management development) classes. Seats are limited!

A Conversation on Leadership, Belonging, and the Future of the Profession

The latest episode of the GBA Podcast introduces listeners to GBA’s Geoprofessional Women’s Group (GWG) through a candid panel conversation about leadership, connection, and career growth in the geoprofessions.

In this special episode, listeners hear from GBA Secretary-Treasurer Carrie (Foulk) Rodriguez, P.E., G.E., of BSK Associates; Elizabeth Brown, P.E. of JLT Consultants; Catherine Ellis, P.E., G.E., of Shannon & Wilson; Dori Ross, P.E. of Sanborn, Head, & Associates Inc.; Nikki Scalia of GBA; and Sydney Shockley, G.I.T., of Atlas Technical Consultants. Together, they represent a wide range of career stages and professional paths as they discuss why the group was formed and how it can support geoprofessionals through mentorship, shared learning, and honest conversation.

The GWG is not just about community for community’s sake. It is about strengthening firms and the profession as a whole.

“Part of being a good business is having a diverse workforce and a workforce that feels supported and empowered,” said Rodriguez.

The panel also speaks openly about career pivots, visibility, and the importance of having a trusted network.

For GBA members and other listeners alike, this episode offers an encouraging look at how connection and shared experience can strengthen individuals, firms, and the geoprofessions as an industry.

Watch now:

Listen to the episode: GBA Podcast – GWG Panel Discussion
Learn more about the group: Geoprofessional Women’s Group

 

 

Meet ChatGBA: A New Way to Access GBA Knowledge

We’re excited to introduce ChatGBA, a new tool designed to give members easy, complete, customized access to 55 years of wisdom created specifically for geoprofessionals. This is just another example of GBA’s commitment to help members put geoprofessional knowledge, resources, and relationships to work.

ChatGBA is a GBA-hosted chatbot that uses our vast library of risk management, business optimization, and leadership development resources to connect members with content that makes them smarter, stronger, and more successful.

No other chatbot is customized for geoprofessionals and has access to a library of over 450 documents, dozens of webinars and audio resources, or more than 10 years of conference video recordings.

Members can access and begin using ChatGBA now by clicking the button below and logging into the member website:

Begin with a question, topic, or challenge and use ChatGBA to get relevant answers shaped by what you do, what you know, and what you’re working on. For more refined results, include your role or area of expertise and what specific challenge you’re working on. This helps ChatGBA provide better support, as responses can be customized by practice area and years of experience.

In addition to individual-level support on the GBA member website, ChatGBA can also be integrated as an API into member firms’ internal communications platforms to support staff training and growth. If you’re interested in exploring this option for your firm, contact GBA at info@geoprofessional.org or 301-565-2733.

This new tool reflects GBA’s broader commitment to delivering forward-looking, innovative services that help members and their firms succeed in a changing business environment.

GBA Podcast Reaches 30,000 Downloads

The GBA Podcast has officially surpassed 30,000 downloads—an exciting milestone that reflects the growing demand for practical, experience-driven insights across the geoprofessional community. What began as a project developed by GBA’s Emerging Leaders Program has evolved into a trusted platform for sharing lessons learned, elevating leadership, and helping firms reduce risk and optimize performance.

Created to make GBA’s signature content more accessible, the podcast transforms real-world Case Histories and expert perspectives into engaging audio episodes that professionals can take anywhere. Today, it features a wide range of series, including Case Histories, Leadership Lounge, Management Best Practices, GeoHeroes, Intentional and Inclusive Communication, and the monthly First Word update—each designed to strengthen judgment, communication, and business performance.

The GBA Podcast continues to deliver exactly what geoprofessionals need most: actionable insight from peers who understand the challenges of practice and the importance of sound judgment. As downloads continue to grow, so does the podcast’s impact on firms committed to improving outcomes and elevating the value of their services.

Ready to listen? Explore episodes and subscribe at the GBA Podcast website, or tune in on your preferred platform, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast apps.

GBA and CalGeo Invite Top Leaders to the CEO Summit 2026

GBA is partnering with the California Geotechnical Engineering Association (CalGeo) to host the CEO Summit 2026, taking place October 29-30 in San Francisco. Registration is now open for this leadership event designed to bring firm leaders together to gather, grow, and guide the geoprofessional industry.

Speakers and Topics

The CEO Summit 2026 agenda addresses both emerging challenges and practical leadership considerations. Speakers represent consulting leadership, technology, academia, workplace strategy, and performance optimization:
• Dr. Jason DeJong, UC Davis – Research-practice feedback loops and funding
• David A. Gagne, MetaField by Agile Frameworks – Integrating AI into existing software
• David D. Harwood, Terracon Consultants – Process- and data-first approaches to enterprise AI
• Wichert Kooloos, VIKTOR – AI in production and governance
• Jamie P. Barr, Langan – AI capabilities across deterministic, non-deterministic, and probabilistic cases
• Brian Stromquist, Gensler – Optimizing for the hybrid norm and future workforce
• Shawn Weedon, Geocon Incorporated – Avoiding wage and hour claims: a case study
• Ron Skaggs, Condor Earth – Managing C-suite stress and securing personal support
• Bryan Hixson, The Brain Performance Centers of Southern California – Brain performance and resilience
• Seana Fippin, Red Box Business Solutions – IT strategy in the AI age

Attendance Eligibility

Attendance is open to CEOs/Presidents from GBA or CalGeo member firms. Leaders of geoprofessional industry associations, along with members of the CalGeo and GBA Boards, are also eligible to attend.

Sponsorship

GBA and CalGeo extend special thanks to MetaField by Agile Frameworks (Platinum Sponsor) and Red Box Business Solutions (Gold Sponsor) for their support of this event. Sponsorships are still available and are open to all GBA or CalGeo member firms.

Registration

Full details—including registration rates, hotel information, and the complete schedule—are available HERE.

     

ALL IN: GBA Heads to Vancouver for 2027 Annual Conference

In 2027, GBA’s flagship gathering heads to Vancouver with a theme that’s both a mindset and a challenge: All In — Uncompromising Commitment to the Geoprofessions. From April 14-17, 2027, geoprofessional leaders and emerging talent will come together to learn, connect, and leave with practical ideas they can apply right away.

“All In” is about more than enthusiasm—it’s about choosing decisive commitment and measurable follow-through. It reflects what sets strong firms apart: the willingness to fully commit to risk management, performance, and people, and to keep elevating geoprofessional value even as expectations and pressures evolve. It’s a call to turn uncertainty into clarity and to translate hard-earned lessons into actions leaders can implement immediately—increasing profitability, improving outcomes, strengthening teams, and protecting the communities we serve.

 

That’s also what makes the GBA Annual Conference different from other AEC industry events: the relationships, the candid peer exchange, and the practical takeaways. Attendees receive actionable, implementation-focused content on leadership, firm performance, risk management, technology, and workforce challenges—plus plenty of opportunities for problem-solving and connection with other geoprofessionals

And the setting is a draw in its own right. Set between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver, British Columbia, blends a vibrant downtown with memorable waterfront scenery.

Now Seeking Keynote Speakers: Go All In on the Main Stage

GBA is inviting keynote proposals that model what it means to go “All In” and deliver actionable lessons leaders can apply immediately—aligned with GBA’s pillars of loss prevention (risk mitigation), business optimization, and leadership development.

The abstract submission deadline is Friday, July 31, 2026. To be considered, submit a single PDF that includes a proposed title, a 300-400-word abstract, leader takeaways, evidence of impact, and a brief biography.

GBA Podcast Spotlights Risk, Judgment, and Inclusive Communication

Three new episodes of the GBA Podcast are now available, offering geoprofessionals insights into risk management, decision-making, and the power of intentional communication. Listen to learn from real-world experience—both technical and interpersonal—to improve project outcomes, strengthen teams, and reduce risk in your firm.

Inclusion Advancement Series, Episode 1: Communication Basics—Intentional and Inclusive Communication

The newest episode marks the launch of a three-part podcast series developed by GBA’s Inclusion Advancement Committee. This first conversation explores why communication is not a “soft skill,” but a core competency in geoprofessional practice.

Moderated by Inclusion Advancement Committee Chair Rob Howard, P.E., the episode features a panel discussion with Dee Watson, B.A.Sc., SHRM-CP, Kent Bannister, P.Eng., and Margaret Panatera, P.E. These geoprofessionals share practical examples of how tone, listening, assumptions, and experience gaps can either reduce friction—or amplify it—within teams.

Upcoming episodes in the series will dive deeper into inclusive language and everyday communication choices that shape workplace culture.

Developed by GBA’s Inclusion Advancement Committee, this new podcast series supports the committee’s mission to advance inclusive leadership, communication, and workplace practices across the geoprofessions. Through facilitated discussions and real-world examples, the series aims to help firms build healthier cultures, strengthen collaboration across disciplines and experience levels, and improve long-term business performance.

Case History #3 Episode: If Your Client Won’t Listen…Get Out Your Checkbook

In this episode, hosts Elizabeth Brown, P.E. and Abi Corbett walk listeners through GBA Case History #3 involving a municipal wastewater treatment facility where roles became blurred, key recommendations were ignored, and contractual risk shifted in unintended ways. What begins as a seemingly routine scope evolves into a costly situation shaped by incomplete investigation, communication breakdowns, and exculpatory contract language.

The discussion highlights why clearly defining responsibilities—and documenting recommendations and rejected advice—can make the difference between managing risk and absorbing it.

Case History #4 Episode: Compromise Must Be a Part of Your Business Strategy

Another new episode explores a project documented in GBA Case History #4, where a value-engineered construction approach—intended to save money—introduced unforeseen risks during drilled shaft construction.

Rather than focusing solely on technical details, the episode examines shared responsibility, the limitations of visual observations, and the realities of value engineering when risk ownership is unclear.

As Brown notes during the discussion, “Value engineering doesn’t eliminate risk—it just redistributes it.” That lesson and others make this episode especially relevant for firm leaders navigating client expectations and cost pressures.

The GBA Case History Podcast Series brings GBA’s written Case Histories to life through candid conversation. Each episode examines a real project challenge faced by a GBA member firm, highlighting lessons learned related to risk management, contracts, communication, and professional judgment. The series is designed to help firms learn from both successes and missteps—without having to experience them firsthand.

All three new episodes are available now on the GBA Podcast website and all major podcast platforms.

GBA Honors 2025-2026 Award Recipients

GBA members gathered at the 2026 GBA Annual Conference in Phoenix, Arizona for the Annual Recognition and Awards Banquet to celebrate the people and member firms who advanced the association’s mission through service, leadership, and meaningful contributions to the geoprofessions.

Below are the award recipients recognized for Fiscal Year 2025-2026:

CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION
GBA recognizes volunteers whose contributions strengthened the association and elevated geoprofessional value. The following geoprofessionals with Certificates of Appreciation to recognize their contributions to the Association in the past 12 months:

• Intisar Ahmed, MS, P.E., P.Eng.	• Ken Johnston, F.GBA
• Kent Bannister, P.Eng.	• Jesse Kropelnicki, P.E.
• Abeera Batool, Ph.D., P.E.	• James Landrum, P.E.
• Saiid Behboodi, P.E., G.E., F.GBA	• Colter Lane, P.E.
• Grace Blackburn	• Thomas Maher, P.G.
• Tom Blackburn, P.E., G.E., F.GBA, F.ASCE, F.ACEC	• Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, F.GBA, F.ASCE
• Storer Boone, Ph.D., P.Eng., P.E.	• Andrew Michaud
• Elizabeth Brown, P.E.	• Keith Mobley, P.E., G.E.
• Jim Carpenter, P.E.	• Matt Moler, P.E., F.GBA
• Corey Clarke	• Bryce Moore
• Rob Condon, P.E.	• Stewart Osgood, P.E., F.GBA
• Abi Corbett	• Bob Rabeler, P.E., M.ASCE, F.MSPE
• Blake Cotton, P.E.	• Dori Ross, P.E.
• Veronica De Freitas, P.E.	• Elias Ruhl
• Vic Donald, P.E., F.GBA	• Shelby Russ, E.I.
• Craig Fischer	• Ryan Slack
• Chuck Gregory, P.E., F.GBA	• Peter Suah, P.E.
• Rick Heckel, P.E., D.GE	• Leo Titus, P.E., F.GBA
• Rachel Hile-Broad	• Matt Van Rensler, P.E.
• Rob Howard, P.E.	• Tiffany Vorhies, PMP, NACE CIP-2
• Jeff Jaros	• Steve Wendland, P.E., P.G., BC.GE
• June Jewell	• Ryan White, P.E., G.E., F.ASCE
• Rich Johnson, P.G., C.E.G., C.H.G.	• Aaron Zdinak, P.E., BC.GE

 

AWARD OF APPRECIATION
GBA presented a Special Award of Appreciation to Tim Rodriguez, a member of the Multimedia Delivery Committee, in recognition of extraordinary multimedia support—contributions spanning writing, video production, and promotional storytelling that helped spotlight GBA resources, training, and key events.

PEER-REVIEWED FIRM
Peer Review is one of GBA’s signature programs and a powerful investment in future success. GBA recognized French & Parrello Associates and Southern Engineering and Testing for completing GBA Peer Reviews in 2025.

2026 WOODWARD L. VOGT PROJECT EXCELLENCE AWARD
The Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award recognizes an outstanding project completed by a GBA member firm—one that reflects GBA’s vision through strong risk management, innovation, quality, and meaningful community impact.

Winner: G2 Consulting — The University of Michigan Helipad Evaluation & Reconstruction

This year’s winning project addressed an emergency sinkhole beneath a hospital helipad that halted critical medical operations. G2 Consulting led the geotechnical response to restore this vital emergency asset to full service.

MEMBER FIRM ENGAGEMENT AWARDS
GBA recognized member firms with the highest measured engagement during the 2025–2026 year (one from each category based on firm size):
• Jorgenson Geotechnical
• SME
• Strata, Inc.
• Terracon

NEW IN 2026: IMPACT AND SERVICE AWARD
In 2026, GBA introduced a new annual award to recognize an individual whose long-term, behind-the-scenes contributions have meaningfully advanced the association’s work and supported strategic direction through steady, trusted service.

Winner: Rick Heckel, P.E., D.GE

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP
GBA recognized the following committee leaders who transitioned out of key roles and celebrated their service:
• Lori A. Cathcart — Emerging Issues & Trends Committee Vice Chair (2024-2026)
• Aaron J. Mann, Esq. — Legal Affairs Committee Chair (2024-2026)
• Bryce Moore — CoMET Committee Chair (2023-2026)
• Margaret Panatera, P.E. — Environmental Business Committee Chair (2023-2026)
• Ryan White, P.E., G.E., F.ASCE — Multimedia Delivery Committee Chair (2025-2026).

BOARD OF DIRECTORS SERVICE AWARD
GBA recognized Elizabeth Clarke for completing her term as a Director (2023-2026).

PRESIDENT’S AWARD
The outgoing GBA President selects one person to recognize for the contributions they made to our Association during the year of his or her presidency.

Winner, selected by Teresa Peterson: Art Hoffmann, P.E., D.GE, F.GBA

PRESIDENT’S SERVICE GAVEL
New GBA president Dan Schaefer, P.E. presented the President’s Service Gavel to Teresa Peterson, P.E., C.M.E., LEED AP, ENV SP, in recognition of her completion of her presidential term (2025-2026).

On behalf of the GBA Board of Directors, member firms, and staff, congratulations to all who were recognized for Fiscal Year 2025-2026—and thank you for the expertise, leadership, and service that strengthen our association and elevate the geoprofessions.

 

New Safety Committee Launched

GBA is pleased to announce that the Safety Subcommittee has been approved as a new full committee, following action taken at the GBA Board meeting on April 21, 2026. The committee was created to help GBA member firms strengthen the safety, health, and wellbeing of employees through practical resources, peer-to-peer learning, and tools that can be applied across roles and project types.

The new committee will focus on facilitating knowledge sharing among member firms; collecting and disseminating best practices for routine and high-risk tasks; supporting safety-related Case Histories; partnering with other GBA committees on projects with safety implications; and helping develop safety content for conferences, workshops, and webinars.

Chair: Rachel Hile-Broad (Hile Group)
Vice Chair: Jim Carpenter (ECS Group)

“We hear all the time that organizational culture is the ultimate competitive advantage and in the geoprofessions, that includes safety culture,” said Hile-Broad. “Safety is a cornerstone that anchors a strong foundation for the rest of the business.”

GBA welcomes membership and committee participation from firms of all sizes—and from both technical practitioners and safety professionals—because stronger safety practices are built through shared experience and collective problem-solving.

Interested in getting involved? Contact GBA Committee Coordinator Stacey Moore at stacey@geoprofessional.org to learn more about joining the Safety Committee. If you are interested in any other GBA Committee as a way of engaging with other geoprofessionals and giving back to your profession, contact Stacey or find more information here: Join a GBA Committee.

GBA Names Three New Members to Its Prestigious Council of Fellows

GBA is proud to announce the appointment of three new members to the GBA Council of Fellows:

• Vic Donald, P.E., F.GBA;
• Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, F.GBA; and
• Matt Moler, P.E., F.GBA.

These appointments were announced during the 2026 GBA Annual Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.

Vic Donald, P.E., F.GBA — Ethics, Innovation, and Industry Impact

A long-time leader in the geoprofessions, Vic Donald is widely respected for advancing professional ethics and leadership. In 2021, he was selected as the winner of the Professional Practice Ethics and Leadership Award, a joint honor presented by GBA and the American Society of Civil Engineers.

His engagement with GBA spans thought leadership, national presentations, and consistent behind-the-scenes support. Recent contributions include serving on the Crystal Ball Workshop Task Force, co-authoring a thought leadership article on AI for GEOSTRATA, serving on the GBA Board, and playing a leading role in the development of GBA’s Geoprofessional Career Ascent Program.

In an interview on the GBA Podcast’s GeoHeroes series, Vic Donald captures what keeps so many leaders engaged in this work for decades, saying, “I’m at that age that a lot of people would say they retired but I can’t do that; I have too much fun in this profession.”

Learn More about Vic:
Vic Donald Selected for Professional Practice Ethics and Leadership Award
GeoHeroes – Vic Donald

Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, F.GBA — Leadership, Service, and Community-Building

A dedicated GBA volunteer and industry connector, Guy Marcozzi has served on the GBA Board of Directors (2021-2024) and as GBA President (2024-2025), while also helping elevate member learning and engagement through multimedia and peer connection.

Among his notable contributions: hosting more than 25 episodes of the GeoHeroes podcast series and helping foster community through initiatives such as the Second Mountain Peer Group.

In his GBA Director Spotlight, Guy Marcozzi reflected on how “giving back” and staying active can be both personally meaningful and professionally energizing—values that align closely with the spirit of the Council of Fellows.

Learn more about Guy:
Director Spotlight: A Commitment to Giving Back
GeoHeroes – Guy Marcozzi

Matt Moler, P.E., F.GBA — People-First Leadership and Long-Term GBA Engagement

Matt Moler has a long track record of service to GBA through leadership roles and committee contributions. His contributions include being a graduate of Emerging Leaders Class 3, serving as a Director on the Board (2018-2022), and serving as GBA President (2023-2024).

He is also recognized for sustained contributions to the Business Practices Committee, including leadership roles and efforts connected to practical, member-useful resources.

In his GeoHeroes interview, Matt Moler underscored a theme that resonates across the geoprofessions: technical excellence matters—but relationships and trust are foundational. As he put it, “Trust begins with a relationship.”

Learn more about Matt:
Matt Moler’s Road to Becoming a Geoprofessional
GeoHeroes – Matt Moler

More Information About the Council of Fellows

The GBA Council of Fellows was established in 1975 to provide guidance for the association’s direction and to pursue other activities its members deem appropriate. Every two years, the Fellows identify long-time contributors and elect new members to the Council—recognizing individuals whose service has helped strengthen the Association and advance the geoprofessions.

 

GBA Announces 2026-27 Leadership

GBA is pleased to announce its Board of Directors and officers for Fiscal Year 2026-27, which runs May 1 through April 30.

This team will help guide the association’s strategic direction and support GBA’s work to elevate the geoprofessions through collaboration, leadership development, and member-focused resources.

GBA welcomes incoming President Dan Schaefer, P.E. (Froehling & Roberston), who will serve as President of GBA’s Board of Directors for FY 2026-27. Other directors who will serve during GBA’s 2026-27 fiscal year are:

• President-Elect: Stuart “Stu” Thompson (CTL|Thompson)
• Secretary/Treasurer: Carrie Rodriguez, P.E., G.E. (BSK Associates)

Directors-at-Large
• Kent Bannister, P.Eng. (TREK Engineering)
• Jeff Jaros (NTH Consultants)
• Dori Ross, P.E. (Sanborn, Head, & Associates)
• Ji Shin, Esq. (Earth Systems)
• Jason Stoops, P.E. (G2 Consulting Group)
• Ryan White, P.E., G.E. (Apex Companies)

“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve,” Schaefer said. “My primary focus this year will be executing the 2027+ Strategic Plan—our North Star. And please—if there’s anything I can do to improve your GBA experience—don’t hesitate to let me know.”

Learn more about Dan in this spotlight article: Building on a Solid Foundation

Gratitude for Outgoing Leadership
GBA extends its sincere thanks to immediate past-President Teresa Peterson, P.E., C.M.E., LEED AP O&M, ENV SP (GFT), for her service and leadership throughout FY 2025-26.

We are also grateful to Elizabeth Clarke (Structure Groups) for her dedicated service as a Director (2023-2026).

Many of these board members get started on their leadership track by attending GBA events or joining one of GBA’s committees, which are the fuel that drives the GBA engine. If you’re interested in joining a committee, please reach out to GBA Committee Coordinator Stacey Moore at stacey@geoprofessional.org for more details.

As GBA begins a new fiscal year, the association thanks every volunteer and member firm that contributes time, expertise, and energy to move the geoprofessions forward—together.

Governor Proclaims Geoprofessionals’ Week in Arizona

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has issued an official proclamation recognizing April 20-25, 2026 as Geoprofessionals’ Week in Arizona. The proclamation spotlights the vital role geoprofessionals play in protecting communities — emphasizing that the health, safety, and welfare of the public depend on geoprofessional services and the professionals who provide them.

The proclamation aligns with the GBA Annual Conference in Phoenix, where geoprofessionals convene to learn, network, and strengthen professionalism across geoprofessional businesses.

“Governor Hobbs’ proclamation is a public reminder that geoprofessionals protect what matters most—our communities’ health, safety, and welfare,” said GBA Executive Director Joel Carson. “As we gather in Phoenix to learn, connect, and strengthen professionalism across our industry, I hope every attendee leaves with renewed pride in the essential work we do and the responsibility we carry.”

The proclamation underscores why geoprofessional work matters every day: the quality of our environment is a fundamental community concern, and efficient, durable, and cost-effective infrastructure is essential to Arizona’s economy and residents’ everyday lives. It recognizes the many disciplines that contribute to the geoprofessions and calls attention to the integrity and importance of the work performed across engineering, earth, and environmental practice.

It’s not too late to attend the 2026 GBA Annual Conference: Geoprofessional Vibrancy, Impact, and Professionalism, taking place April 23-25. Join your peers from across North America for GBA’s flagship gathering built around connection, growth, and ideas you can bring back to your firm right away.

GBA’s Geoprofessional Women’s Group: A Space to Connect and Grow

Women across the geoprofessional industry are building careers, leading teams and firms, and shaping the future of our profession—and they shouldn’t have to do it in isolation. That’s the idea behind GBA’s Geoprofessional Women’s Group (GWG): a dedicated space designed to bring women together across firms, disciplines, and career stages to connect, learn, and support one another.

 

At its core, GWG is built around five key objectives that translate into practical, firm-relevant benefits:

• Collaboration
• Learning
• Networking
• Support
• Empowerment

Enhanced professional growth, increased visibility for women’s achievements, a stronger community, and the power of diverse perspectives will elevate geoprofessional value on a global scale.

The GWG is guided by a steering committee of engaged women leaders across GBA member firms, including:
• Liz Brown, P.E. (JLT Consultants)
• Shana Carroll, P.E., LEED BD+C (D.W. Kozera)
• Catherine Ellis, P.E., G.E. (Shannon & Wilson)
• Cassandra Langley (GBA)
• Keri Nutter, C.P.G. (DOWL)
• Laura Register, P.E., F.GBA (Terracon)
• Carrie Rodriguez, P.E., G.E. (BSK Associates)

Goals and Deliverables to Benefit Member Firms

The group has begun outlining topics and discussion tracks that will help leaders and managers better understand the realities women may face in the workplace and in field environments, including:

• How employers can support women through family leave and return-to-work transitions
• Work/life balance while parenting
• Normalizing women’s job-site needs
• Inclusive, respectful communication

Planned content ideas include:

• An employer retention playbook with guidance for supporting and retaining women in geoprofessional businesses.
• Guidelines for employers on what women are seeking from their workplaces, especially in scenarios where women may be the only woman in the office or on a job site.
• Speakers and learning sessions to address women-in-leadership and women-in-business themes.

How to Join

As the group continues to grow, members meet the first Wednesday of each month to surface real experiences, identify common challenges, and translate those insights into ideas that can help both individuals and their firms.

If you are interested in joining GWG, attending an upcoming meeting, or learning more about how the group can support women in your firm, you’re encouraged to reach out and request information or an invitation. Contact Carrie Rodriguez: crodriguez@bskassociates.com.

And stay tuned for an upcoming special episode of the GBA Podcast, where GWG members share why the group formed, what they hope to gain, and why this kind of community matters.

The First In-Person GWG Meetup

Women attending the 2026 GBA Annual Conference in Phoenix are invited to a GWG meetup during the event on Thursday, April 23. If you’re not yet registered for the conference, you can still sign up to participate HERE.