A Decade of Progress: Reflecting on 10 Years with the Geoprofessional Business Association

After knowing and loving GBA as a consultant and active member for many years, I was thrilled to be selected as the organization’s Executive Director. Ten years ago, after retiring from a 22-year career at Kleinfelder and a thorough interview process, I was selected to be the Executive Director at the Geoprofessional Business Association (GBA). I stepped into the position with a deep respect for the organization’s legacy, value it provides our members, and a vision for its future. Today, as I reflect on this journey, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose for our association and for the geoprofessions.

When I started my tenure, GBA was at a crossroads, changing from being consultant-managed to becoming self-managed, an uncharted path. Additionally, rapid technological advancements, shifting regulatory landscapes, and evolving client expectations were reshaping how we worked. GBA’s mission—to serve geoprofessionals by promoting business excellence, leadership, and innovation—was more relevant than ever. My goal was to ensure that GBA not only kept pace with change but led the way.

Over the past decade, we’ve made remarkable strides. We expanded our educational offerings, launched new peer review programs, elevated our Committee participation, improved our communication, and developed cutting-edge resources that have empowered our members to thrive in a competitive environment. Our conferences evolved into dynamic forums for knowledge exchange, networking, and inspiration. We embraced digital transformation, making our content more accessible and our community more connected, always with an eye on the future of the geoprofessions.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this role has been witnessing the growth of our members. I’ve seen firms rise to new heights, emerging professionals blossom into industry leaders, and seasoned experts generously mentor the next generation. GBA has always been about people—about fostering a culture of collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement.

We’ve also faced challenges. Economic downturns, global disruptions, industry consolidation, and the ever-present need to adapt tested our resilience. But each time, our community proactively responded nimbly with creativity and resolve. We leaned into our values, supported one another, and emerged stronger. These moments reminded me why GBA exists: to be a steady hand, a trusted resource, and a catalyst for progress.

Looking back, I’m especially proud of the initiatives we launched to create an inclusive experience for our members. We recognized that a stronger, more innovative industry is one that welcomes all voices. Through Committees, member resources, events, global partnerships, and open dialogue, we’ve taken meaningful steps toward a more inclusive future which is reflected in our Board of Directors, Committees, and event participation.

As I look ahead, I see boundless opportunities. The next decade will bring new technologies, new challenges, and new ways of working. But with the foundation we’ve built and the passion of our members, I am confident that GBA will continue to lead with purpose and impact.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank so many people who have contributed to the success of GBA:

Our founders, who had the foresight to band and form ASFE together to avoid losing insurance more than 50 years ago.

John Bachner for his 40+ years of consultation and leadership of ASFE/GBA.

The 10 Presidents of GBA whom I have had the honor to serve under and learn valuable lessons in leadership:
• Gordon M. Matheson, Ph.D., P.E., P.G., D.GE 2015–2016
• Laura Reinbold, P.E. 2016-2017
• Charles L. Head, P.E., P.G. 2017-2018
• Woodward “Woody” L. Vogt, P.E., D.GE, F.ASCE, F.ACI, F.ASTM 2018-2019
• Arthur G. Hoffmann, P.E., D.GE 2019–2020
• Kenneth Johnston 2020-2021
• Thomas Blackburn, P.E., G.E., F.ASCE; F.ACEC 2021-2022
• Leo J. Titus, Jr., P.E. 2022-2023
• Matt Moler, P.E. 2023-2024
• Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C 2024-2025
• Teresa L. Peterson P.E., C.M.E., LEED AP O&M, ENV SP 2025-2026

David Coduto and the staff at Terra Insurance Company, who through our partnership have provided so much support to our Association for many, many years.

The GBA Staff past and present who support and encourage my cravings of advancement and improvement and entertain my crazy ideas. Thank you for your daily contributions, Sara, Cassandra, Rachel, Brock, Kelley and your past contributions Andrea, Barb, and Phil.

To our board members and volunteers, and every individual who has contributed to this journey—thank you. Your dedication and belief in our mission have made these 10 years not just successful but deeply fulfilling.

Most importantly, I would like to thank my biggest supporters, CeCe and our three children who generously tolerate long hours and business travel while providing positive feedback and brilliant ideas. They keep me grounded and soaring, simultaneously.

Here’s to the next chapter of GBA—founded in excellence, driven by innovation, and united by a shared commitment to advancing our community and elevating geoprofessional value.

Joel G. Carson, CEO
Executive Director