Are you fascinated by the stories Earth has to tell—from ancient fossils to high-tech maps? Whether you’re drawn to digging into the past or mapping out the future, careers in Geology and Geomatics offer exciting paths for curious minds.
At a recent Gator Career Chat panel, UF alumni and professionals shared inspiring stories and valuable advice for students eager to explore these fields. From managing labs to flying drones, from mapping wetlands to analyzing ancient shorelines, their stories prove there’s no one-size-fits-all path and plenty of room for students of all interests and skill sets.
Meet the Panelists
- Pam Hyatt, an owner of a surveying and mapping company in Bradenton, Florida. After graduating from the University of Florida Geomatics Program in 1990, Pam worked as a project manager for other companies for 12 years and became a licensed surveyor in Florida and Georgia before starting Hyatt Survey. She currently has 30 employees and is one of the leading survey companies in Florida.
- Peter Adams, a Professor of Geological Sciences at the University of Florida and is the lead Principal Investigator for the Geomorphology Lab at UF. His general research interests include surface processes, landscape evolution, and the geomorphic effects of climate change. He and his research group use field instrumentation, landform analysis, and numerical models to address questions about the geomorphology of coastal landscapes.
- Alejandro Perez, a Professional Surveyor and Mapper (PSM) in the State of Florida and a 2006 graduate of the UF Geomatics program. He has over 20 years of experience in land surveying and geospatial industry, specializing in land development and construction surveying. Now at UF, his goal is to share his passion and knowledge of surveying with others and maybe educate some folks on opportunities that maybe they didn’t know existed.
What’s the difference?
Geology is the science of the Earth: its structure, composition, and the forces that shape it over time. Think earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes—geologists study how these events transform the planet. They combine chemistry, biology, and physics to explore rocks, fossils, and water systems, often working outdoors or in labs to uncover how ecosystems have evolved through deep time.
Geomatics is all about where. It goes way beyond land surveying—this field collects and analyzes spatial data to understand and design everything from water systems and transportation networks to land use and urban planning. Using high-tech tools like GIS, GPS, drones, and remote sensing, geomatics specialists visualize data in ways that support decision-making across industries. Whether it’s tracking wildfires, planning cities, optimizing agriculture, or even studying ancient ruins, geomatics brings location to life.
Why these fields?
These are ideal careers for students who:
- Love maps, outdoor work, or coastal and ocean environments
- Are naturally curious and love solving puzzles
- Have a passion for protecting natural resources and telling the story of the Earth
- Enjoy both thinking big and analyzing the small details
What are Alumni doing now?
UF Gators are putting their skills to work in dynamic and impactful ways across a range of industries. Some of the exciting work they’re doing include:
- Analyzing maps and modeling environmental changes
- Managing labs, teams, and large research projects
- Creating proposals and managing budgets
- Communicating scientific information to stakeholders and the public
- Using geospatial data to solve complex problems
- Designing innovative mapping tools for cities, coastlines, and conservation
Many work for public agencies, private firms, or research institutions—and some even take on hybrid roles that blend science with business.
Must-Have Skills
No matter where you go in Geology or Geomatics, alumni highlighted the following as essential:
- Problem-solving
- Public speaking and communication
- Data analysis and mapping
- Collaboration and project management
- Adaptability and curiosity
- Client relations and stakeholder engagement
Tip: Most companies aren’t expecting you to know it all—they’re looking for team players who show curiosity, a positive attitude, and the drive to learn and grow on the job.
How to prepare now
Looking to build your skills while at UF? Here are practical tips from our panelists to get you started:
- Join student organizations
- Geomatics Student Association—meetings are open to ALL majors! LinkedIn: University of Florida Geomatics Student Association | LinkedIn | Instagram: @ufgsa
- Geological Science Ambassadors
- Attend events like science fairs, speaker panels, or participate in hands-on experiences such as Geology Field Camp and GeoSPACE Field Program
- Explore certificates to boost your resume: Geomatics Certificate
- Pursue internships and research opportunities—check out fieldwork and lab positions available through your college or professors
- Consider adding a minor or electives that build professional skills: communication and leadership
- Practice teaching, mentoring, or working on group projects to strengthen your soft skills
- Look for creative ways to gain experience—outdoor skills courses, volunteer for community/campus projects, creating a blog mapping local trails etc. What’s something you’d enjoy doing?
As you grow and learn, keep updating your resume—every experience counts! Employers are looking for candidates who not only have relevant technical skills but also demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Showing a willingness to learn, adaptability, and a positive attitude can set you apart just as much as your coursework and internships.
Be Curious. Be Involved. Be Ready
Whether you’re charting ancient shorelines or visualizing future cities, there’s room for you in Geology and Geomatics. These fields reward curiosity, critical thinking, and community—and they’re more flexible than you might think.
Be on the lookout for fun events—say yes to the next tailgate, check out that student org meeting, or try a class that challenges you. Your future career might start with a conversation, a class, or even a map.
