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NALS / CLSA • Bill Cuddy Memorial Scholarship ($2500) – Brooks Bryant (See
thank you letter from Brooks on page 36
Conference Wrap-Up • Great Basin College Scholarship ($2500) – Geron Burkhardt
• NALS Education Foundation Scholarship ($2500) – Hunter
By: Trent Keenan, PLS Staley (See thank you letter from Brooks on page 36
The joint Conference of the Nevada Association of Land Survey- The Roundtable Discussions continue to be a Conference
ors (NALS) and the California Land Surveyors Association (CLSA) highlight. These sessions served as a platform for open dis-
was held at the Silver Legacy in Reno, Nevada, from March 25th cussions, allowing attendees to exchange ideas, share experi-
to 28th, 2023. This was another amazing event bringing together ences, and collaborate on various topics of importance to the
professionals from both associations to exchange knowledge, land surveying profession.
discuss industry trends, and network with peers. The educational
opportunities for land surveyors featured speakers such as, Den- One notable round table session was titled “Meet the CLSA &
nis Mouland & Gary Kent. NALS Officers – CLSA & NALS Update.” This session provided
an opportunity for Conference participants to interact with the
The Conference kicked off with a pre-conference workshop Officers of both Associations and gain firsthand insights into the
that offered participants a chance to enhance their skills and latest initiatives, projects, and updates from CLSA and NALS.
expertise. One of the workshops, “CFedS Workshop: Concepts Attendees had the chance to provide input, ask questions, and
and Computations in the PLSS and Parentheticals,” was led by actively engage with the leaders who play a crucial role in shap-
Glen Thurow, PLS, CFedS, and Tasha Huhta, PLS. This workshop ing the direction of the Associations.
delved into the intricacies of Public Land Survey System (PLSS)
computations and parentheticals, providing attendees with In addition to the Officers’ updates, the round table sessions
a comprehensive understanding of these essential surveying covered a wide range of crucial topics pertaining to education,
concepts. Another workshop, “Civil 3D for Surveyors” by Rick workforce development, recruitment, mentorship, and the Young
Ellis, focused on utilizing the power of AutoCAD Civil 3D software Surveyors Network. These sessions aimed to address the chal-
in land surveying applications. Additionally, Marvin Mudahy con- lenges and opportunities faced by the land surveying community
ducted a Trimble Business Center class, equipping participants and explore innovative solutions.
with the skills to maximize the potential of this software.
Education updates were a significant focus of discussion dur-
The Conference’s opening ceremony commenced with a ing the round table sessions. Participants were able to discuss
Keynote Address by Tim Burch, the Executive Director of the advancements in surveying education, explore new curriculum
National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). Mr. Burch approaches, and share best practices for developing competent
shared his invaluable insights and experiences, inspiring at- and well-rounded surveying professionals. The session facili-
tendees to embrace innovation and uphold the highest stan- tated a collaborative environment where attendees could learn
dards in the profession. from each other’s experiences and contribute to enhancing
surveying education.
Throughout the Conference, a series of informative sessions
were held, covering a diverse range of topics relevant to land Workforce development and recruitment were also key topics
surveyors. Dennis Mouland, PLS, led a session titled “Ethics of discussion. The round table sessions provided a platform to
for the Professional Surveyor,” emphasizing the ethical consid- deliberate on strategies for attracting new talent to the profes-
erations and responsibilities that surveyors must adhere to. sion and ensuring a skilled workforce for the future. Attendees
Jerry Mahun, PLS, delivered a thought-provoking presentation shared insights on successful recruitment methods, mentorship
entitled “Property Description Interpretation – How Hard Can It programs, and the importance of promoting surveying as an
Be?” which delved into the complexities of interpreting property exciting and rewarding career choice.
descriptions accurately.
Mentorship was another significant aspect discussed during the
Steve Parrish, PLS, enlightened the audience with his session, round table sessions. Participants explored effective mentorship
“Finding the Wandering GLO Footsteps,” providing insights into models, shared their experiences as mentors or mentees, and
retracing historical Government Land Office (GLO) surveys. Logan highlighted the positive impact of mentorship on professional
Campbell led two sessions, “How to Choose the Right Drone for growth and development. The exchange of ideas and best prac-
Drone Surveying” and “RTK and Drones – Workflows for Post- tices encouraged attendees to foster mentorship relationships
Processing Drone RTK Data,” which offered practical guidance on within their own organizations and support the next generation
integrating drone technology into surveying workflows. of surveying professionals.
Gary Kent, PLS, presented a few compelling sessions during the The Young Surveyors Network was a focal point of the discussions,
Conference. In “Guidelines for Writing a Surveyors Report,” Kent emphasizing the importance of engaging and empowering young
shared valuable tips and best practices for producing compre- professionals in the land surveying industry. The round table ses-
hensive and effective survey reports. He also organized an amaz- sions provided a space for young surveyors to connect, network,
ing mock trial, which engaged participants in a realistic court- and share their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities
room scenario, providing an immersive learning experience. they face in their careers. Attendees exchanged ideas on nurturing
young talent, providing mentorship opportunities, and ensuring
Along with the 24 hours of education provided, there were the inclusion of diverse voices within the profession.
several events that provided the opportunity to get together and
enjoy each other’s company, including a live and silent scholar- In addition to the educational sessions and workshops, the
ship auction. The auction generated over $21,000 that will be Conference provided ample opportunities for networking and
used to support Nevada land surveying students! socializing. Attendees had the chance to connect with industry
professionals, exchange ideas, and forge new collaborations.
This year, the NALS Education Foundation awarded the following
scholarships to deserving students: Overall, the joint Conference of NALS and CLSA in Reno, Nevada,
• Ben Grissom Memorial Scholarship ($2500) – Jacob Thomas was a resounding success, fostering professional growth and

30 The Nevada Traverse Vol.50, No.2, 2023