TSPS: How/why did you get into surveying?

James: I went to work as a Rodman right out of high school for the City of Waco Engineering Services where we primarily did civil engineering related surveying. Clip on EDM’s were phasing out, affordable electronic total stations hadn’t been out long and the data collector – was not man’s best friend. Fortunately, my Party Chief Lynn Ewing had a skill set of a walking abacus, with a side of slide ruler and sine table, in which, he passed down the art of hand calculations. As technology and my curiosities evolved, I began classes and attending the annual TSPS Convention at TSTC Waco while earning an Associate Degree in Geomatics under the direction of Charles Styron (#1338) and Michael Evans (#4715). 

TSPS: Why did you join TSPS?

James: Initially I joined due to Styron and Evans strongly advocating the education and networking benefits that TSPS had to offer. Moving forward a decade later, my time at Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi being involved directly and behind the scenes of the Convention helped motivate my desire to join TSPS. Moreover, being a part of an elite Professional Society that works closely with its general membership along with the members of the Texas Legislature on issues that affect our livelihood; maintaining a strong presence on the legislative platform, as well as, professes awareness and promotes the surveying profession to the public, is imperative not only to my future, but the future of upcoming Surveyors. Lastly, the future of our profession through community outreach and scholarships is an avenue for me to give back and help pave the way of the future surveyor.  

TSPS: What is your most memorable surveying moment?

James: I have been fortunate to have experienced several stellar surveying moments throughout my career thus far. I’ve found original corners, expert witness investigative duties, all types of water boundaries, surveyed the ranches of George W. Bush and Ted Nugent, built towns, subdivisions and airports, inshore/nearshore hydrographic surveying, refinery/midstream industrial surveying, staked high rise buildings, fought off a floating den of water moccasins in a river, chased by donkeys and javelinas, pinned down by a peacock, all while, sloshing around in mother nature’s sporadic Texas weather. The most memorable surveying moment was receiving my Certificate of Registration to practice as a Professional Land Surveyor in the great State of Texas. My sincerest gratitude goes out to everyone who has helped me on this journey (not typical-of course), inspirational mentors, contributing employers, friends, family and most of all my wife, Jennifer Anne.

James' Favorites:

Color: Red, White and Blue
Food: Texas Barbeque
Animal: My French Bulldog, Coco Chanel Carr
Singer/Band/Group: Classic Rock/Country, Silence is good, occasional Marshmello with my son, Grayson
Hobbies: Spending time with my family

James is currently the TSPS Chapter 12 - Coastal Bend President and works for Urban Engineering in Corpus Christi, TX.