Geomatics Technology graduate Adam Garrison, 24, was on track to become a Physician’s Assistant when Covid hit and threw a wrench into his plans. The Mars Hill native witnessed doctors and nurses pushed to the limit as local clinics and hospitals became inundated with patients. Craving a new career, the Western Carolina University student took three months off to work on a Colorado ranch and get his bearings. Up to that point Garrison’s work experience was limited to a high school grocery store job, and work at Mission Hospital as a Certified Nursing Assistant. He wasn’t sure what path to take next when a relative invited him to job shadow at his surveying job, and Garrison discovered he liked the idea of working outdoors and on his own.
Surveyors and geomatics technicians (the terms are interchangeable) are experts at measuring points on, above and below the earth’s surface. They may be part of a crew that includes engineers, landscape architects, and urban planners.
Garrison was offered a job at Banks Creek Surveying in Weaverville and presently works there full-time as a Party Chief, overseeing a field crew and decisions related to field work.
After a few years of working in this role, Garrison made the choice to complete A-B Tech’s Geomatics Technology degree, which will allow him to advance in his field. He is graduating with his degree and an Academic Achievement Award for excelling in academics, interpersonal skills and leadership abilities.
“During his time in the Geomatics Technology program, Adam has excelled in the classroom,” said Computer Technologies and Geomatics Chair Pete Kennedy. “He began the program with some land surveying experienced and has consistently sharpened his skills throughout.”
Along with sharpening his surveying skills, Garrison gained a strong social network while on A-B Tech’s campus, building close relationships with his instructors and fellow classmates. “Pete Kennedy and Christopher Milan are phenomenal men and instructors,” Garrison said. “They have really made my time at A-B Tech enjoyable.”
The Geomatics Technology program offers classes both during the day and in the evening, which made it easier for Garrison to flex his work schedule and prioritize classes. “My boss has been incredibly supportive,” he said.
Garrison is on track to take a state exam and two national exams. After passing them, he will be eligible to work as a Professional Land Surveyor (PLS), a role that oversees employee training, field work and research.
Garrison is excited to have found a career that fits his personality and offers the chance to work in a variety of tasks including protecting property boundaries, creating subdivisions and performing surveys for construction planning.
“Geomatics better suits (me) because I enjoy being outdoors and being in a new place working on jobs,” he said, adding, “Much like medicine, geomatics is always advancing and changing.”
To learn more about A-B Tech’s Geomatics Technology Program, visit abtech.edu/geomatics.