GeoEd'25: June 17-18, 2025

GeoEd’25 is the premier event for educators and professionals dedicated to advancing geospatial education. Bringing together experts from academia, industry, and government, the conference serves as a hub for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing in the field of geospatial technology and education.

This year’s event will feature sessions from leading voices in geospatial education and industry, hands-on workshops, field trips/field work, and networking opportunities. Attendees will explore emerging trends in geospatial education, including the integration of GIS, remote sensing, and location-based analytics into curricula at all levels. GeoEd’25 will also showcase the latest tools, technologies, and teaching methodologies designed to equip students with critical spatial thinking skills and prepare them for careers in geospatial technology.

With a focus on fostering partnerships and driving the future of geospatial learning, GeoEd’25 is a must-attend event for educators, researchers, and professionals committed to shaping the next generation of geospatial experts.

The conference will take place from Tuesday, June 17 - Wednesday June 18, 2025. Each day will run from 8:30am-5:00pm. There will also be pre-conference field work/trips on Monday June 16.

This is a FREE conference!

We are excited to announce that the  Call for Presentations  for GeoEd'25 is open! This is your opportunity to share your expertise, innovative research, and best practices with a dynamic and engaged audience.

We welcome submissions on a wide range of geospatial topics, including but not limited to:

• GIS in education and workforce development
• Emerging technologies in geospatial science
• Mapping for social impact
• Remote sensing and Earth observation applications
• Teaching strategies for spatial thinking
• Educator/industry partnerships

Whether you’re an educator, industry professional, or student, we encourage you to submit your proposal and contribute to the conversation shaping the future of geospatial education!

*** Box lunches will be provided for all pre-conference participants!

Exploring the Gettysburg Battlefield Through Geology & Geospatial Technology

Discover the intersection of history, geology, and geospatial technology on this immersive field day at Gettysburg! This hands-on workshop will explore how the region’s unique geological features influenced the Battle of Gettysburg and how modern mapping tools can help us visualize and interpret the battlefield.

• Investigate the geological formations that shaped troop movements and battle strategies.
• Use GPS and GIS technology to map key terrain features.
• Analyze elevation data and topographic maps to understand battlefield advantages.
• Learn how remote sensing and 3D modeling enhance historical research.
• Engage in on-site discussions about the connections between geology, geography, and military history.

Sentiment & Perception Mapping of Gettysburg Locales

How do people perceive and emotionally connect with the landscapes of Gettysburg? This interactive workshop explores the intersection of geography, history, and human experience through sentiment and perception mapping.

• Collect and analyze public perceptions of key Gettysburg sites through surveys and historical accounts.
• Use GIS tools to visualize emotional and cultural connections to different locations.
• Explore how memory, historical narratives, and personal experiences shape our understanding of place.
• Create a dynamic sentiment map that reflects diverse perspectives on Gettysburg’s landscapes.
• Discuss the role of mapping in preserving cultural heritage and informing public interpretation.
• Discuss how to apply these approaches and tools in their own communities, instruction, and research.

Mapping Historical Fiction: Bringing the Killer Angels to Life

Join us for an immersive workshop that bridges historical fiction and geospatial technology! Using excerpts from The Killer Angels, Michael Shaara’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about the Battle of Gettysburg, participants will engage in a hands-on experience mapping the novel’s key locations.

Through a combination of digital cartography and on-site exploration, we will:

• Generate maps of select locations featured in the novel.
• Visit these historic sites to understand their real-world context.
• Analyze 2D maps to develop an elevation-based perspective of the battlefield.
• Construct an interactive Story Map to visualize and narrate the battle’s events.
• Read passages from The Killer Angels on-site to deepen our connection to the history and geography of the battle.

All participants are responsible for making their own travel arrangements. Because we want this conference to be a launching pad for collaboration, we are encouraging all participants to stay in Gettysburg as we will have optional evening activities.

The closest airport is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT). This is about 50 minutes from HACC Gettysburg.

While you can stay wherever you would like, below are a few hotel suggestions to get you started. Also, do not forget about AirBnB and VRBO. You can get awesome places for great prices!

Seating in some of the workshops will be limited to the number of computers in each lab. Bring your own laptop so that if a workshop fills, you can still participate from your laptop. Additionally, some workshops are "laptop only' meaning that you have to bring your own laptop. Many workshops will require ArcGIS Pro, so be sure to have it installed PRIOR to the conference.

Also be sure that you bring a sweater and wear comfortable shoes!

United States educators are eligible for a $700 stipend from the GeoTech Center to help offset travel and hotel costs. Educators seeking a stipend must attend the full two-day conference and must be a U.S. citizen.

The GeoTech Center is supported by the National Science Foundation. DUE 1304591, DUE 1644409, DUE 1700496, DUE 1937177, DUE 1938717, DUE 1937237, and DUE 2202038. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the National Science Foundation.