Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship

When the State of Michigan launched its first-ever Geographic Information Science (GIS) Advisory Group, it was a major step forward in how the state collects, shares, and uses mapping data. And for Central Michigan University, it was also a proud moment, because five of the 17 experts appointed to the council are CMU alumni.

From county governments to state organizations and beyond, CMU grads are playing key roles in shaping how Michigan uses geospatial tools to make better decisions, whether it's about roads, resources, or emergency response.

Chris Cantrell, Director of IT/GIS for Midland County and one of the five CMU alumni on the council, summed it up perfectly:

“I am humbled that I was asked to serve on the inaugural State of Michigan GIS Advisory Committee. To be considered for leadership roles in GIS in Michigan continues to amaze me. The foundation of my philosophy comes from the education at Central Michigan University. CMU and especially the Geography Department not only taught the theory of geospatial technology but nurtured my leadership skills. I look around at many of the leaders in GIS across Michigan and I see CMU graduates! Fire Up Chips!”

The council was created by Michigan’s Department of Technology, Management and Budget to advise the Center for Shared Solutions, a hub that helps state agencies and local governments share critical mapping data. It’s a job that touches nearly every aspect of life in Michigan, and CMU alumni are at the table helping guide the conversation.

“Being selected as an inaugural member of the State of Michigan’s GIS Advisory Group is an incredible honor,” said Erika Espeland, GIS Director for Berrien County.

“I’m proud to represent the broader geospatial community in shaping the future of our profession. My journey began at Central Michigan University, where both the undergraduate and graduate GIS programs not only gave me a solid technical foundation but also nurtured the leadership skills and collaborative mindset that define our field. CMU taught me that GIS isn’t just about maps. It’s about connection, insight, and service.”

That focus on connection and service is something CMU takes seriously, through hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world training. CMU’s programs in Geography and Geographic Information Science have helped graduates launch careers that truly make a difference.

The work of the council includes some of the most cutting-edge geospatial initiatives in the state, from statewide aerial imagery programs and 3D terrain mapping to broadband planning and emergency services coordination.

Nick Bogen, Geographic Information Systems Developer for Midwest Energy and Communications, brings experience from both local government and the utility sector.

“My early career in local government helped me build the skills to support everything from flood recovery in Midland County to infrastructure mapping in Bay City,” Bogen said. “Now, in the utility industry, I’ve developed drone programs and software that help bring broadband and power to tens of thousands across the Midwest. None of that would be possible without the foundation I built at CMU.”

For Jonathon Merrick, GIS Coordinator for Eaton County and another proud CMU grad, it’s about making sure the geospatial community is seen and heard.

“It is both an honor and a privilege to represent and advocate for IMAGIN's, and soon CMPASS's, membership, amplifying the voices and needs of geospatial professionals to our GIO (Geographic Information Officer) through the State of Michigan GIS Advisory Board,” he said.

“I earned my undergraduate degree in Geographic Information Sciences and Meteorology from Central Michigan University, an investment in myself that carried risks, especially as I was funding my own education. Fortunately, my CMU experience proved to be a wise investment, equipping me with a solid foundation of world-class knowledge and skills. The State of Michigan is home to an incredible community of highly talented and driven geospatial professionals across all sectors, doing truly outstanding work. It’s both a blessing and humbling to be part of such a strong GIS professional network right here in the Mitten State. Fire up Chips!”

From classrooms in Mount Pleasant to decision-making tables in Lansing, alumni are showing what’s possible with a CMU education. Their leadership on the council is a clear reflection of CMU’s commitment to community impact and real-world readiness.

And for the next generation of GIS professionals? They’ve got some big (and familiar) footsteps to follow.