Get to know the current AGNR Alumni Network President, Elizabeth O'Keffe!
1. Can you tell us about what you’re up to now in your career?
I work at Straughan Environmental as a GIS Analyst / Environmental Planner. I develop models and code to process information and manage data, build web maps and apps to support inventory and inspection efforts, and participate in many diverse projects that help our clients manage their infrastructure and environmental assets.I support all users of GIS products including QGIS, Arc Pro, Arc Map, and ArcGIS Online within our company, and help manage our Esri account including ArcGIS Online. I also get to participate in business development activities such as writing proposals, attending conferences, professional organization events, and career fairs.
2. What did you enjoy most about your work?
The opportunity to devise creative solutions and problem solve, as well as the opportunity to work with so many different subject matter experts and clients.
3. How did your experiences at AGNR help you with your career aspirations?
Because of my background in both Environmental Science and Tech and GIS I get to bridge the topics together and use them both almost every day at work, not only to do my own job, but also to assist my other coworkers in Natural Resources, Engineering, and Planning groups.
4. What are the benefits of being a member of the AGNR Alumni Chapter?
The opportunity to meet up with other alumni and reconnect with current students and faculty/staff. There are so many cool events that are offered to Alumni like touring the campus greenhouse, hanging out at the AGNR tailgate, and visiting different Alumni owned businesses for the annual Eat, Drink, and Be Maryland event in the spring. Not to mention the opportunity to come back to the college and participate in things like career panels and career fairs.
5. Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I recently became a certified GIS Professional, the current president of the AGNR Alumni Network & I have two corgis!
by Andrew Muir