Seneca Holland, a Geospatial Research Scientist at the Conrad Blucher Institute (CBI) and Instructor of Geospatial Science at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC), has been named the Texas Society of Professional Surveyors (TSPS) Educator of the Year. The prestigious award recognizes those who have made exceptional contributions to surveying education in Texas.
With nearly 20 years of experience in surveying and geospatial education, Seneca has demonstrated her commitment to advancing the field and inspiring the next generation of surveyors and geospatial professionals.
“Seneca has always been good at sparking students' interest in the discipline,” said José Pilartes-Congo, a Ph.D. student at TAMU-CC and Graduate Research Assistant at CBI. After taking Seneca’s classes as an undergraduate student, José was inspired to continue his academic journey. He went on to obtain a Master of Science in Geospatial Systems Engineering from TAMU-CC and is now pursuing a Ph.D. in Geospatial Computer Science. “Seneca’s mentorship helped me recognize the limitless possibilities for using my degree to tackle global challenges and paved the way for me to pursue my graduate education.”
Seneca’s contributions also extend beyond the classroom. Some of her recent efforts to expand surveying education include her integral role in the Point of Beginning Initiative, which aims to establish a Geospatial Engineering and Land Surveying Career and Technical Education Pathway across Texas. With the number of skilled professionals entering the geospatial and land surveying workforce (the median age of registered professional land surveyors in Texas is 60), the initiative hopes to reverse the trend by increasing awareness and education at the K-12 level. Two Texas school districts have already adopted the pathway, with several other large districts planning to implement the program in the 2025-2026 school year.
“Seneca’s efforts couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Isidro X. Garza, a registered professional land surveyor and TAMU-CC alumnus working closely with one of the schools who adopted the pathway. “With so few young professionals entering the field, we need to build our talent pool and bring in amazing young students who are adept with technology and eager to contribute fresh perspectives and drive innovation in our industry.”
Though undoubtedly deserving, Seneca remains humble about the recognition. “This award is a reflection of the collective efforts of many,” she said when asked about the recognition. “We’ve made significant strides in creating educational pathways for students interested in geospatial engineering and land surveying.”
