Earlier this month, TRG team members, Chris Cox (pictured) and Spencer Queen (pictured), traveled to University of Hawai‘i to get a boots-on-the-ground perspective of the powerful work being led by Orlo Steele (pictured), Paul Agamata, and Donna DeSilva. In 2022, the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education (NSF ATE) program awarded funds to the University of Hawai’i Systems for the Geospatial Remote Sensing Hawai'i (GRS Hawai'i) Project. The primary goal of this project is "to create a new certificate program at Hawai'i Community College that focuses on preparing students to enter the workforce with skills in the collection and management of remote sensing data used in geospatial analysis." The aim of the certificate is to provide students with a foundation and skills in aerodynamics, safe and responsible operations of unmanned aerial vehicles, geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing data analysis, survey methodologies, and the experience to be competitive for industry positions in the region.
From piloting drones to connecting with students, alumni, community partners, and project team members, Chris and Spencer immersed themselves in an environment where learning and innovation met. This visit not only deepened The Rucks Group, LLC’s understanding of the initiative but also helped us understand how we can tailor our support to reflect the experience of those involved.
Chris said of the experience: “Meeting the project team in person after three years of virtual collaboration was a powerful reminder of the impact of our role as a data-powered partner. Seeing firsthand the innovative technology, strong partnerships, and student engagement brought the project’s vision to life. One of the most inspiring moments was speaking with students in the certificate program—each of whom clearly articulated how this experience is shaping their career paths and opening doors to new opportunities in the geospatial and drone technology fields.”
When we talk about being client-centered, this is what we mean: showing up, listening closely, and aligning our approach with the real-world context of the work to help the team realize their vision. Thanks to Chris and Spencer for visiting and to project team for allowing us to partner with you!
