The sixth Geo-Resolution conference took place at Saint Louis University on Thursday, drawing a record crowd. The event, co-hosted by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and SLU, focused on “Modeling the Future for Today’s Decisions.”
During the opening panel titled “Leaders’ Look,” SLU President Fred P. Pestello, Taylor Geospatial Institute Executive Director Nadine Alameh, and NGA West Executive William Caniano discussed the geospatial industry’s current state and future. They emphasized collaboration as essential for progress.
Caniano highlighted the partnership between NGA and SLU in organizing this growing annual event. “Even before we made the decision to stay in St. Louis, Saint Louis University was actively engaged with us,” he said.
Pestello remarked on the mutual benefits of their relationship. He noted that while NGA requires skilled personnel to manage vast data quantities, SLU aims to enhance its geospatial program to train future leaders.
Alameh addressed technological advancements like artificial intelligence generating unprecedented data volumes. She stressed that everyone is involved with AI and emphasized collaboration among academic and professional sectors: “My conclusion when I look at the TGI network of academic research and industry is that everyone is doing something with A.I.”
Pestello reiterated SLU’s commitment to collaboration: “It is absolutely critical for any college or university… We generate knowledge, we transmit knowledge… Taking in young people… is absolutely essential.”
The leaders agreed that St. Louis plays a pivotal role in geospatial work. Alameh underscored inspiring future generations as vital for maintaining momentum.
