PLSO The Oregon Surveyor January February 2021

16 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 44, No. 1 more convincing took place and we start - ed DeJarnatt Land Surveys Inc. in 1987. I surveyed. Roxanne drafted survey maps and did the bookkeeping. It’s when I decided to pursue my dream rather than stay in my comfort zone with the BLM that the trajectory of my life changed. In some ways, the work has been more challenging because the re - sponsibility rests on my own shoulders, but I enjoy being my own boss both in the times of scarcity and plenty. Tell us about a mentor or teacher who made an impact on your career path? David Hull was one of my first surveying professors at OIT. He taught Fundamen - tals of Surveying and made it so clear in my mind what surveying was all about that I could actually see myself choosing this as a profession. I really enjoyed the field lab work using the Gurley Transit and metal chaining tape along with the new HP 3800 electronic distance mea - suring device. I still own a non-working EDM. Although I was a Highway Engineer - ing major, this class and Mr. Hull opened my eyes to a path more in line with my calling. C. Albert White also impacted my life because of his knowledge of survey - ing and his passion for the history of the GLO. I had an opportunity to work with him on a couple BLM survey projects and I’m still reminded of some of the tips and information he shared when I’m hiking or surveying in the woods. If you were talking to young associates and students just coming into our profes- sional community, how would you discuss how PLSO has had an impact on your career? I think a surveyor can survive viewing sur - veying as a job just to receive a paycheck. But in order to thrive in this profession and experience it as a fulfilling part of our lives, it’s vital to develop relation - ships with our peers. PLSO has helped to make me a better surveyor by keeping me accountable to grow and learn new things. Professional Development Hours have definitely benefited me. Technology changes so rapidly that interacting with younger surveyors keeps me informed with how the landscape is changing. And there’s a wealth of wisdom to be shared from surveyors with decades of experience. What is your proudest moment as a surveyor so far? My proudest moment as a surveyor so far has been this honor of Oregon Sur - veyor of the Year because it is a gift of recognition by my surveyor peers and friends. It’s my privilege serving along - side each one of them. I’m grateful that my career is still thriving and produc - tive. There are times when I wonder if it’s time to back off a bit from my heavy schedule. But this encouragement from my peers who understand the respon - sibilities of this profession offers fresh energy to my future. Plus, Roxanne has encouraged me to keep working until I’m at least 92. She seems to enjoy the days I’m working in the field. x 2021 Annual Conference: Surveyor of the Year continued T