Mapping Broadband Access and Transparency in Oklahoma: A Statewide Approach

Nicholas Camper, Director of Engagement - Oklahoma Broadband Office
Seth Pinnoo, GIS Performance Analyst - Oklahoma Broadband Office

The Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) is leading efforts to expand broadband access through the development and implementation of infrastructure grants. This presentation will introduce the OBO’s mission and highlight how our mapping efforts support broadband deployment and public transparency, as mandated by state statute. We'll showcase key features of the map and explain how it differs from the FCC’s version in usability and accuracy. Mapping also plays a critical role in our grant programs by showing where projects are being funded and how they align with other federal efforts. Our public dashboard allows community leaders and residents to track project progress and understand when service will be available in their area. As we approach an October 2026 completion deadline, transparency and communication are more important than ever. This session will demonstrate how GIS tools are central to informing the public and ensuring a more connected Oklahoma.

How to Get GIS Funding without Gobbledygook

Larry Stein, Assessor - Oklahoma County

If you’re involved in GIS, you may be surprised when you have to speak before a large group of people to explain what you do or to request funding for important innovations in technology. How do you accomplish your goals without using “gobbledygook” terms NO ONE UNDERSTANDS?

It’s easier if you get help from someone with media expertise. Larry Stein has been a multi-media reporter, talk show host and elected official and can help you negotiate the treacherous waters of communications without ending up a creek. He will discuss the presentation of GIS needs and benefits in a way your audience actually understands.

ArcGIS Field Maps: Updates and Future Plans

Riley Nolan - Esri

ArcGIS Field Maps is an app designed for field operations. It provides mobile workers with access to current information, situational awareness, and tools to capture and share data from the field efficiently and accurately, maintaining synchronization between the field and the office. For those preparing field workflows in the office, ArcGIS Field Maps offers tools to customize the mobile experience to meet organizational needs. This session will cover recent enhancements and upcoming features for ArcGIS Field Maps.

Beyond the Map: Building Focused Geospatial Applications for Real-World Use

Alex Holland, GIS Analyst III - Williams

Developing geospatial applications for non-technical stakeholders presents a unique set of challenges. This presentation outlines a practical framework for identifying and addressing stakeholder needs through focused, accessible application design.

Drawing on two recent project examples, we’ll examine strategies for gathering meaningful requirements under time constraints, curating data to avoid unnecessary complexity, and designing interfaces that prioritize usability over feature density. The goal is to equip geospatial professionals with tools and approaches that make their work more impactful and easier to understand for those outside the field.

Animated Maps & Folded Trails Maps

Dat Nguyen, Research Specialist - Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Basic information for using ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud enables innovative GIS professionals to access and design with data-driven maps in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, After Effects, and InDesign for animated maps, folded trails maps design.

SMaLL: Qualitative GIS; Historical GIS; and Historical Spatial Data Infrastructures

Todd Fagin, Executive Associate Director - University of Oklahoma Center for Spatial Analysis
Jacqueline Vadjunec, Professor - University of Oklahoma

Qualitative GIS (qual-GIS) is increasingly used in mixed methods research to harness the power of GIS across time and space, through innovative historical GIS (HGIS), and/or deep mapping approaches, among others. Such work is often predicated on the development of a so-called historic, qualitative, and/or spatial data infrastructure, consisting of spatially referenced historical data, such as census records, cadastral maps, stories, photos, and other ephemeral information. In this session, we will discuss some lessons learned in working with qual and/or HGIS approaches drawing on case studies ranging from the Dust Bowl to mining legacies.

Streamlining Data Coordination Across Departments and Teams with VueWorks and Trimble Unity Construct

April Mueller, Business Process Analyst 2 - City of Fort Worth

The City of Fort Worth’s Transportation Public Works Department has made extensive use of VueWorks and EBuilder to create a centralized hub for accessing key information. This includes both internal data and external REST services from partners such as TxDOT. By integrating with platforms like VueWorks and Trimble Unity Construct, we’ve streamlined data coordination across multiple teams and departments citywide.

Oklahoma Statewide Imagery Program Update

Tim Bohn, VP Business Development - Bowman Consulting (Surdex)

New 6" leaf-off imagery for the state of Oklahoma is here for the first time in 30 years, at no cost to you! Data is available now in a variety of formats and accessibility. Come learn about the program, how to get data, what else is still to come and buy-up opportunities for 2026.

 
Beyond Paper Maps: Interactive, Data-Editing Webmaps for Non-GIS Users

Malena Collins, Geographic Information System Specialist III - Oklahoma Department of Transportation
Katherine Ho, Geographic Information Systems Manager I - Oklahoma Department of Transportation

The Geospatial Data Management (GDM) Division at the Oklahoma Transportation Cabinet uses a range of online mapping/data solutions to support the diverse needs of business units at the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT). In this presentation, we'll give you a behind-the-scenes look at the Arcade and Python scripts that power a custom-built webmap form that supports data management and reporting for the Sign Programs Group at ODOT. We’ll demonstrate how we configure auto-filled form responses based on geo-location and data fields to reduce errors, save time, and promote usage by making it easy to add and edit data.

Oklahoma 9-1-1 NG911 GIS, what are we doing now?

Lance Terry, State 911 Coordinator - Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority
Michael Coonfield, State 911 Technology Coordinator - Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority

The class will catch everyone up on where NG911 GIS is at today. This includes: the state of the State NG911 GIS; GIS toolkit; and the status of deploying NG911 core services in the State.

Imagery in ArcGIS: What's New with Deep Learning

Joseph (Brig) Bowles - Esri

Discover the latest deep learning features in ArcGIS's desktop, enterprise, and SaaS solutions. Learn how to extract information from various imagery and raster data, including satellite, aerial, drone imagery, scientific data, video, scanned maps, and elevation using modern deep learning techniques.

How DEQ Leverages Publicly Available EPA data in GIS Dashboards for Agency Leadership

Amy Brittain, Environmental Programs Manager - Oklahoma DEQ

David Burton, Environmental Programs Specialist - Oklahoma DEQ

There is a lot of publicly available environmental data released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This presentation will highlight how to find that data and how Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality uses Esri Dashboards to leverage this data for visualizations for staff and leadership within our GIS Enterprise environment.

Managing Flood Control Structure Easements in a Digital Age

Wendie Sharp, GIS Manager - Oklahoma Conservation Commission
TJ Hathcock, GIS Specialist - Oklahoma Conservation Commission

Oklahoma is home to 2,107 upstream flood control structures (dams), which are sponsored, operated, and maintained by 67 local Conservation Districts. These districts work closely with landowners, local governments, and other stakeholders to ensure the stability of these critical, aging structures. Many of these flood control structures, originally built in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, are now in need of rehabilitation.

To address this challenge, the Conservation Districts, the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) must transition from paper-based easement records to a comprehensive GIS database. This digital transformation will enable users to visualize data, make informed decisions, and renew focus on revitalizing, updating, and protecting these multi-million-dollar infrastructure projects.

SMaLL: This is the Presentation Title

Kellie Winkler, O&G Specialist III, GIS - Oklahoma Corporation Commission

General overview of who we are and how we use GIS in various departments, drone program, future goals.

Winter Weather solution: Using GIS to Plow through Snow & Ice Events

Emma Leary, GIS Analyst - North Texas Tollway Authority

Effective winter weather response requires timely, accurate, and actionable information. This presentation showcases a custom-built GIS Experience Builder application designed to streamline and visualize real-time winter weather operations for our Tollway System. Field data is rapidly collected using ArcGIS QuickCapture, while ArcGIS Velocity processes this input—along with maintenance crew call-ins—in real time. This ensures the dashboard reflects up-to-date conditions, including roadway accidents, material requests, and equipment status. By centralizing and visualizing this critical information, the app enhances decision-making, improves communication across teams, and supports safer, more efficient winter weather operations.

Applications of High-Density Lidar in State and Local Government

Matt Hiland, Director of Strategic Accounts - Sanborn Geospatial

As with most technologies, lidar is getting better, faster, and less expensive. This presentation will describe some applications and scales of data collection and analysis that may have not been previously feasible. Some these include but are not limited to water resources management; electric transmission and distribution; emergency/flood/wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery; appraisal/assessment; and more.

 
Evolution of the Emissions Landscape in Oil and Gas and How Gas Mapping LiDAR from Bridger Photonics Helps Operators Identify, Measure, Monitor, and Reduce Emissions

Seth Tribbey, Sr. Director of Sales - Bridger Photonics

The emissions landscape has changed considerably in the last five years with more eyes on emissions than ever before. At the same time, the technology available to identify, measure, monitor, and reduce emissions has evolved rapidly as well. This presentation will provide an overview of market and regulatory drivers for emissions management, available technologies to address emissions, and provide an overview of Gas Mapping LiDAR from Bridger Photonics fit within the evolving landscape and the tangible results oil and gas operators are getting from using the technology. 

OKC Vision Zero Action Plan

Sasha McCrone, Senior Planner - City of Oklahoma City

In 2023, the City of Oklahoma City received an $800,000 Safe Streets and Roads for All grant to address the rise in traffic fatalities and serious injuries and develop a Vision Zero Action Plan. The Plan was adopted in February 2025. The City is exploring opportunities to fund implementation.

The process began by forming an Advisory Board and creating a vision:

“The City of Oklahoma City aims to eliminate road fatalities through strategic infrastructure enhancements, policy advocacy, and inclusive education. The City is dedicated to protecting all road users and promoting a sustainable, vibrant community.”

The next steps included collecting data and gathering community feedback to understand the issues that needed to be addressed, as well as designing solutions. The Plan follows the FHWA Safety System Approach stating that deaths or serious injuries are unacceptable and safety is proactive. The success of the Plan will be based on design, enforcement, education, and policy guidelines.

Integrating ArcGIS with Other Business Systems

Greg Hakman - Esri

Realize the full potential of ArcGIS across your organization or enterprise. This presentation explores high-level approaches to integrating ArcGIS with business systems, including enterprise asset management (EAM), customer relationship management (CRM), computer-assisted mass appraisal (CAMA), and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This presentation will discuss integration patterns for application, services, and data tier. It will provide insights into how ArcGIS integration can meet your requirements, including through native integration solutions for specific software and system providers.

Exploring the World of Esri Training Resources

Mary Harding, Sr Training Consultant - Esri

In a world where geospatial technology is becoming increasingly essential, Esri stands at the forefront, offering a diverse array of training resources to empower individuals and organizations. This session aims to shed light on the vast training options provided by Esri, ranging from free eLearning courses to interactive instructor-led sessions.

Attendees will uncover the wealth of knowledge and skills waiting to be acquired through Esri's training programs. From foundational concepts to advanced techniques, discover how these resources can enhance proficiency in utilizing Esri's cutting-edge geospatial tools.

Join us on a journey of discovery as we delve into the realm of Esri training, unlocking the potential for personal and professional growth in the dynamic field of geospatial technology. Esri will guide you as we navigate the vast landscape of training resources, empowering you to harness the full capabilities of geospatial technology for a brighter, more informed future.

The Experience Builder Experience: How an idea of an idea became a high-quality product in Esri Experience Builder and what we learned along the way

Justin Wright - Oklahoma Water Resources Board

Cresencia Storms - Oklahoma Water Resources Board

LeAnna Kilhoffer - Oklahoma Water Resources Board

Tasked at the eleventh hour to produce a modern and interactive take on disseminating water quality data to the masses, a trio of scientist turned to the only thing that only one of them knew about -- Esri Experience Builder. Quickly the students became the teachers, and pushed the limits of an entire division by working together to create high-quality Esri experiences and lived to tell their story.

From redesigning complex data concepts to be digested in moments to learning to edit and curate content, and from exploring the benefits and limitations of Esri Experience Builder to working together concurrently within the Experience Builder environment, we want to share our experience: the big wins and little victories, the headaches, the things yet to be overcome, and how you can pull it off for your organization.

SMaLL: Experience builder - configuring widgets and widget actions

Daniela Spade, GIS Application and Outreach Coordinator - University of Oklahoma Center for Spatial Analysis

I have worked at the Center for Spatial Analysis as the GIS Outreach and Application Coordinator for nearly 5 years. My day-today work tasks usually involve deploying new web applications using Experience Builder, or editing existing apps to meet the needs of our clients at CSA. I feel very comfortable navigating the Builder interface and configuring widgets. I provide a few samples of my work under the references section.

Did you know... GIS Edition

Sam Coldiron, GIS Project Manager - POE & Associates

Did you know… that I will be sharing some of my favorite Tips and Tricks for GIS that I have picked up over more than a decade of using GIS? I have seen the good and the bad of doing GIS in the Environmental, Energy, Public, and Private sectors, which allowed me to pick up some tips and tricks to make it a little easier. Everything from ESRI’s Pro, to workflows, to cartography, to scripting, to GIS administration, to project management/tracking, and more. Go beyond the ESRI cheat sheet of keyboard shortcuts and hear about tips and tricks that apply to all parts of working in the GIS world. If you love learning the little “life hacks” of GIS, come join me and your fellow GIS professionals in learning a couple of neat tricks that could make your life a little easier!

Free vs. Fee: Understanding the available weather data in ArcGIS

Matt Gaffner, Solution Engineer - Baron Weather

There's an abundance of weather data available and a lot of it is available in ArcGIS. This presentation will outline the differences between what is commercially available vs. what ArcGIS users can find for free. ArcGIS users will walk away with an understanding of whether their organization can rely on free weather data sources based on their needs or if their organization should investigate a commercial weather offering for their ArcGIS organization.

 
Modernizing GIS Workflows: Automating QA, Integrating PostgreSQL, and Developing ArcGIS Pro SDK Tools for the Oklahoma State Election Board Project

Jacob Tillotson, Senior GIS Analyst - University of Oklahoma Center for Spatial Analysis (CSA)
Zak Gipson, Senior GIS Analyst - University of Oklahoma Center for Spatial Analysis (CSA)

The Center for Spatial Analysis (CSA) supports the Oklahoma State Election Board in maintaining spatial data tied to voter precincts and jurisdictional boundaries. For over 20 years, CSA’s internal workflow relied on Microsoft Access for data ingestion, validation, and reporting—paired with ArcGIS for spatial editing. While functional, the system has become inefficient and hard to scale.

This session covers CSA’s modernization efforts, including migration to PostgreSQL/PostGIS for multi-user access, spatial querying, and improved data integrity. We'll highlight custom ArcGIS Pro SDK tools (.esriAddInX in C#) that shift QA tasks upstream, enabling technicians to check data during county-level edits. We'll also share how Python scripting automates legacy Access workflows, runs validations, and generates transmittal files for the state.

We'll discuss key challenges, technical decisions, and lessons learned while modernizing a legacy GIS workflow—without disrupting its critical role.

AI: Bridging the Gap Between GIS and IT

Kevin Cameron, Assistant Chief Information - City of Allen, TX / TAGITM

Alicin McCloud, GIS Manager - Denton County, TX / TAGITM

As GIS and IT increasingly intersect, many organizations struggle to fully integrate their capabilities. This session explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is bridging that gap by enhancing both geospatial and enterprise workflows. Through real-world use cases, we’ll showcase how AI is being used in Denton County and the City of Allen.

Whether you're in GIS or IT, this session offers practical examples of how AI can unify teams, tools, and data for smarter outcomes.

Web Apps: The Road Ahead

Alex Olivier-Morgan - Esri

This presentation provides an overview of the future of web applications for ArcGIS. It covers multiple apps, including ArcGIS Experience Builder, ArcGIS Dashboards, ArcGIS Web Editor, ArcGIS StoryMaps, ArcGIS Instant Apps, Map Viewer, and Scene Viewer. It also offers a preview of upcoming features in late 2025 and into 2026.

Why Would I Consider a Graduate Degree in Geospatial Technologies?

Dawn M Drake, Director of Online Programs - University of Oklahoma Department of Geography & Environmental Sustainability

The idea of going back to school can seem daunting, especially if you are working at a full-time job you like and have a busy home life. Why put in extra work? Why take time from your family or friends? Why spend money if the boss is not asking you to do so or offering to pay for it? This presentation will discuss the opportunities that can come with a graduate degree in geospatial technologies and help alleviate some of the fears and unknowns. While it will focus on the programs provided through the University of Oklahoma, it will also give good take away points that can help you to evaluate the programs out there today to make decisions that are best for you, your career, and your future. 

Using spatial analyst tools to map current and future water demand in the Ogallala-Panhandle Aquifer from predevelopment and 2021 water level data

Zachary Tomlinson, Hydrogeologist - Oklahoma Water Resources Board

The Ogallala aquifer underlies a major agricultural region in the central United States and has been extensively used for irrigation since the 1930’s. The portion of the Ogallala Formation that underlies the Oklahoma Panhandle is defined by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board as a major aquifer called the Ogallala-Panhandle aquifer and has reported water use four to five times higher than any other aquifer in Oklahoma. Published pre-development and recent water table elevation maps were used to calculate percent depletion across the aquifer with ESRI Topo to Raster and Raster Calculator tools. Texas County and Cimarron County both had 20 percent median depletion rates; Beaver County had ten percent median depletion. Models of required saturated thickness to pump 300 to 500 gallons per minute were also used along with previously calculated rates of decline to map approximate life of basin across the aquifer with the Raster Calculator tool.

SMaLL: Mapping During and Post Extreme Weather Situations, HazMat Mapping, Hazmat Preplanning Mapping

Matt Wormus, EPS V - Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality

Matt is the chair of the Oklahoma Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Commission. Matt maps during and post extreme weather events to ensure hazardous material storage locations are safe or indeed of response.

Exploring GIS Data Stewardship for NG9-1-1

Annie Cahill, Public Safety GIS Technical Consultant - DATAMARK Technologies

A successful NG9-1-1 deployment requires holistic data management and ongoing stewardship of accurate and complete GIS data. In this session, we will explore NENA’s GIS Data Stewardship document with real world data issues and solutions. We will review the requirements and considerations for layer development, and how to represent features in the GIS to support NG9-1-1. We will also discuss long term maintenance of NG9-1-1 GIS data, including considerations for layer dependencies and workflow plans for each layer.

File Cabinet to GIS - Mapping Right-of-Way Documents

Martha Ortega, Senior GIS Specialist - WSB LLC
Michael Couch - WSB LLC

Many agencies and entities maintain right-of-way documents; some choose to map them. In a recent pilot project performed by WSB, MNDOT chose to begin that process. WSB staff (formerly Meshek employees) worked on this project using experience we developed working for Oklahoma agencies and communities and adapting that to MNDOT’s needs. We will present our work on this project and its unique challenges. We will also discuss our work on other similar projects, to map easements and rights-of-way in GIS format.