Nick Pawley, Regional Manager, C.R. Kennedy
In our annual Leaders Forum, we ask experts to look ahead into 2023. Today we talk spatial tech with Nick Pawley.
After completing studies at RMIT, Nick Pawley practiced as a surveyor for eight years. This field experience and his passion for technology eventually led him into equipment sales. For the past 18 years, he has been at the cutting edge of spatial technology; working at C.R. Kennedy gives him the opportunity to learn about the latest solutions and the chance to help geospatial professionals advance their businesses.
Is the geospatial sector in good shape to help solve the needs of the nation, e.g. climate change, renewable energy, infrastructure projects?
Yes, the geospatial industry is in very good shape and is ideally positioned to address the needs of the nation. With governments prioritising infrastructure, geospatial data has never been in such high demand. Our customers are well positioned to take advantage of this.
What are the most important challenges facing the sector?
The single largest challenge is the lack of skilled workers. This is not something new in Australia, and it needs to be addressed by increasing the number of geospatial graduates from Australian universities.
Geospatial companies should also consider increasing charge out rates and wages. This would increase the professional perceptions of the industry, attracting more young people to our field.
Which technologies or innovations are going to make their mark in 2023?
One word: automation. Three new products come to mind: The first is the Leica BLK ARC scanner, which brings high-definition scanning to the Boston Dynamics Spot robotic quadruped. The second is the ExynAero drone that flies and maps autonomously in underground mines, creates a point cloud of its surroundings, and returns to its home position. The third is the soon-to-be-released DJI Dock, which brings autonomous aerial inspections to the market.
What’s on your wish list for 2023?
Demand for drones flying with BVLOS capabilities will become more widespread. We’re fortunate that regulators are aware of this, but a more streamlined approach to certification would be beneficial to our industry.
What are your customers and collaborators looking for in 2023?
Our clients are always looking for an edge to increase efficiencies and provide better deliverables. Geospatial companies can’t rely on increasing their workforce to complete their tasks. Technology is the answer to increase efficiency and get more from existing teams.
What are your company’s plans or priorities for 2023?
Our priority is to continually evolve with the industry. We aim to continue to empower our employees, work closely with our partner Leica Geosystems, and offer our customers the best possible solutions in the industry.
This article was first published in Issue 116 (Dec/Jan 2022-23) of Position magazine.
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