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The way we define geospatial work is changing, and we want you to be part of the conversation!
On May 11, Frédéric Blouin-Michaud (Esri Canada) and Monica Lloyd (COGS) will co-host an interactive discussion at the Canadian Geospatial and Geomatics Forum in Ottawa. This session focuses on a vital initiative: updating the National Occupational Classification (NOC) to accurately reflect the diverse, high-impact roles held by GIS professionals across the country today.
The current classifications often fail to capture the reality of modern geospatial positions. By modernizing these frameworks, we can ensure better recognition, standardized career paths, and a stronger future for the workforce.
Read & Research: Get up to speed on the initiative by reading this featured article: Why Canada Must Modernize Its Geospatial Workforce Framework.
Take the Survey: At the end of the article, you’ll find a survey. Your input is essential and will directly guide our discussion in Ottawa.
Join Us in Ottawa: The forum is free to attend, but registration is required.
Registration Link: Register Here (Select the "Pre-conference" option).
Planning to attend? We’d love to know! Please reach out to Frédéric Blouin-Michaud at fblouin-michaud@esri.ca to confirm your attendance or to share your thoughts ahead of the session.
Let’s work together to ensure the Canadian geospatial workforce is recognized for the vital work it does. See you in Ottawa!
We are deeply saddened to share that Brian “Bunk” Lee, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Brian spent the past seven years with the NPCA (Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority) as the GIS Administrator, where he brought exceptional skill, dedication, and a memorable sense of humour to his work. Known for encouraging colleagues to embrace GIS, uncovering hidden office candy stashes, and sharing honest thoughts with a smile, Brian made a lasting impact and will be greatly missed.
Born and raised in Smiths Falls, Ontario, Brian built a 35‑year career in the GIS field after graduating from the University of Waterloo. A life long scratch handicapper, Bunk could always be found at the golf course, and proudly served as the first caddy for LPGA star Brooke Henderson during her first LPGA win in 2015. Brian is survived by his brother Pat, niece Brianne, and sister‑in‑law Candace, and is predeceased by his parents, Donald and Delores Lee. A celebration of life will be held in spring 2026 in both Smiths Falls and Collingwood.
https://essentialscbs.com/brian-bunk-lee-obituary/
Dear BeSpatial Ontario Members and Sponsors,
On behalf of the BeSpatial Management Team, I’d like to take this opportunity to reflect on our collective achievements over the past year and extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of you. Your dedication and resilience for the geospatial profession continues to be the cornerstone of our community’s success.
Reflecting on 2025: This year has been filled with significant milestones and collaborative efforts; all of which continued to propel our organization forward. From the return of our in-person annual conference (which saw sold-out attendance), to the four in-person community events across the province, to the virtual workshops and webinars that provided invaluable learning opportunities, we continued to foster a vibrant and innovative geospatial community. We also moved forward with our BeTransformed initiative - we are bringing more value to our members, sponsors, and to all who work with data and are a part of the geospatial community, regardless of job title.
Our members are leading the charge on innovative projects, harnessing the power of geospatial technologies to tackle real-world challenges and create meaningful impact. The energy of collaboration and the commitment to sharing knowledge within our community continue to set a remarkable standard.
With your unwavering support, 2025 allowed us to successfully host four in-person events throughout the year in various locations, including Thunder Bay, Peterborough, Sudbury, and Hamilton. The positive turnout and support from attendees, speakers, panelists, and sponsors were truly inspiring.
We welcome you to be part of the team; please consider filling out our volunteer form!
Looking Ahead: In 2026, we will continue to provide a self-supporting community that helps each other solve business problems, provides relevant data and technology content with in-person and virtual training and vertical-themed events, and we will proactively demonstrate to employers and community leaders that geospatial is an essential component in decision-making and business success. Please keep an eye on our website https://www.bespatialontario.ca/Events, and in e-newsletters for more details. Additional in person and virtual event opportunities will be released frequently! We are excited about the initiatives planned for the coming year and look forward to your active participation and contribution.
Our AGM will be held on May 26, 2026, at the same location as last year: the Holiday Inn and Suites in Burlington, and the theme is "BeInspired." We’ve taken sponsor/exhibitor/attendee feedback and completely reimagined the venue’s layout! Our conference’s theme highlights how inspiration fuels success and sparks transformative growth across our community. Registration will open next week, and we are looking forward to seeing many of you in person!
If there are turbulent times forecasted for your organization in 2026, know your geospatial community is here to support you. We remain committed to supporting our members through continued professional development, networking opportunities, and collaboration with those associated with the geospatial profession.
Thank You: I would like to take the opportunity to thank our amazing community of members and sponsors for your continued support. I would also take a moment to offer my humble appreciation to everyone on the Management Team, associated committees, and dedicated volunteers who donate their time and work tirelessly to keep you informed, enlightened, and keeping our geospatial community available to you anytime.
Celebrating Leadership and Welcoming New Talent: After 26 years of exceptional leadership as BeSpatial Ontario’s Executive Director, Sandra Crutcher will transition into the role of Executive Advisor effective January 1st. Sandra’s experience and insights have been instrumental in shaping our association, and we’re delighted she will continue to contribute as a valued member of our Management and Executive teams.
We are equally excited to welcome Heather Stortz as our new Administrative Coordinator. Heather’s expertise in managing essential “back office” operations will help ensure the continued smooth functioning of BeSpatial Ontario.
A heartfelt thank you to Sandra for her years of dedication, and a warm welcome to Heather - we’re truly grateful to you both!
Holiday Wishes: During this festive season, we wish you and your loved ones joy, peace, and prosperity. May your holidays be filled with warmth and happiness, and may the new year bring you continued success and fulfillment.
Thank you for being an integral part of BeSpatial Ontario. We are excited to achieve even more together in 2026.
Warmest regards,
Wendy BaldinPresident, Director
Kessey-Dewitt Publications, in Association with URISA, has recently released the third Edition of the GIS Management Handbook. Below is a brief description and the attached flyer provides additional information. Order this book through the Geospatial Professional Network's Online Store.
This book is a comprehensive guide and reference to the field of GIS management. It provides practical information on the development, implementation, and operation of GIS programs and projects—for a full range of public sector, not-for-profit, and private sector organizations and companies. This book takes a practical approach providing clear descriptions of concepts, issues, and practices that may be used in operational to improve and maximize the efficiency of GIS programs and projects.
Alan Mitchell, a pillar of URISA Ontario (now BeSpatial), passed away recently, leaving behind a profound impact. Since the association’s formation in the 1980s, Alan has been a steadfast contributor. He served as our first communications lead, designed our inaugural logo, and played a pivotal role in establishing our presence within the GIS community.
Over the years, Alan’s leadership extended to the board’s strategic planning sessions, where he helped shape our vision, direction, and structure. His exceptional ability to articulate complex ideas and simplify them for others was truly remarkable. We are deeply grateful for his invaluable contributions and the privilege of having him as a part of our community.
https://www.echovita.com/ca/obituaries/on/toronto/alan-mitchell-20407776
We need your help to update our Questions and Answers library in our FAQ section!
Do you have a question that is not currently covered in our FAQ section, please contact web and we'll do our best to make it available on our FAQ webpage.
It is with great sadness we learn of the passing of one of our members, Greg Czajko:
For more information: Grzegorz Czajko Obituary - Peterborough, ON | Ashburnham Funeral Home & Reception Centre
The BeSpatial Board extends its deepest condolences to Greg’s friends, colleagues, and family.
May they find peace and comfort in the memories they have of Greg during this difficult time.
Some great webinars continue as we rollout planned webinars for the upcoming year.
Some of these webinars may sound familiar to BeSpatial annual event attendees and you would be right! These amazing presenters from BeSpatial's annual event have agreed to provide a more detailed presentation from their BeSpatial event session. Stay tuned for more information and registration details!
Interested in offering a Webinar? Contact Clifford Programs
BeSpatial Ontario is inviting you to join us at its 39th AGM (Annual General Meeting), program event, executive session and EXPO. By sponsoring or exhibiting at our annual event, you will be offered a number of benefits as per the details below.
Theme: BeTBD
Place: TBA
Date: 2026
BeSpatial'26 will be offering morning program presentations with special afternoon sessions, i.e., (workshop, Industry partner sessions, panel, seminar, etc.)
In addition to program sessions (per sponsor level), Sponsors have an opportunity to participate in the Industry Partners (IP) speaking program on a first come, first serve basis.
Location: On Site Conference
Details on how to Sponsor or Exhibit!
Take advantage of this opportunity to participate as a BeSpatial Annual Event and EXPO Sponsors and Exhibitors! Contact Peter at BeSpatial: INFO for more details.
BeSpatial Ontario is excited to announce the upcoming Fall GIS in-person event to be held in Thunder Bay, Ontario on November 13 at the Valhalla Inn!
Don't miss this unique and informative geospatial event! Registration will Open soon!
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Full Day: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm (social gathering from 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm)
Location: Valhalla Inn, 1 Valhalla Inn Road, Thunder Bay, ON P7E 6J1
Reservations: 1-800-964-1121
Continental breakfast, lunch, snacks, coffee service, exhibits and social networking is included.
*Limited Sponsorship and Exhibit Opportunities available. Contact: Peter.
Note: New to BeSpatial Ontario? A complimentary remaining 2025 and full 2026 membership is included in your non-member registration fee!
Your contribution and support plays a crucial role in supporting this geospatial and information community event and ensuring its success.
