YSN Member Spotlight
Volunteering with the Young Surveyors Network
What to expect, what you’ll gain, and how to get involved
Expectations & Roles
What exactly will I be doing as a volunteer?
As a volunteer your roles and responsibilities can be as big or as small as you would like them to be. The Young Surveyors Network needs volunteers for our annual Student Competition which involves a little physical activity and we need volunteers to serve on our board and committees which is a little more decision making. In short, it depends what kind of contribution you can make.
How much time is expected per week or month?
Depends on your involvement. If you want to volunteer once a year for our Student Competition or volunteer year round on a committee. It’s truly up to you. Typically, a committee member and/or board member spend 2-3 hours a week volunteering. Where if you decide to volunteer at the annual Student Competition, that is typically a week long trip to D.C. and takes place in the spring.
Is this a short-term or ongoing commitment?
Again! All up to you my friend! Committee and board members have a yearly commitment where volunteers for the annual Student Competition volunteer their time that week.
Are roles flexible or remote/hybrid?
For sure!! Yes, roles are flexible. Committee and board members meet once a month virtually. And volunteers for our Student Competition are only expected the duration of the Student Competition.
Are there opportunities to help organize events?
Oh Yeah!! That’s what we have committees for! If you are interested in joining a committee, reach out to [email protected] and the board will make sure to connect you to the right young surveyor.
Will I get exposure to industry leaders or speakers?
Of course!! Industry leaders and speakers typically are attending our bi-annual meetings. Especially if you attend the annual Student Comp. (in conjunction with NSPS YSN Spring Meeting) you will be exposed to industry leaders like Leica, Trimble, and NGS.
Are expenses covered (travel, events, materials)?
This question is a hot topic for young surveyors who are volunteering their time. Expenses to volunteer at the bi-annual meetings are not cheap. HOWEVER, there are ways to have your travel and lodging covered. We first always recommend you get in touch with your state society or state YSN Representative to see if there are funds budgeted for these events. Alternatively, your employer may WANT you to attend these meetings and support you 100%. We recommend you speak with your employer. You never know till you ask. The NSPS YSN board is always happy to help, and reach out to them for any assistance.
Will I have a main point of contact?
ALWAYS reach out to your current board members! They are there for YOU! They can be reached via email. [email protected]
What support is available if I’m unsure or new to volunteering?
AGAIN! Reach out to your Board members! They are there to help. They can get you connected to your state YSN Representative or pair you with a buddy.
Are there opportunities to move into committee or leadership roles?
Absolutely! We are always looking for fresh ideas and an extra set of hands. If you are interested in serving on the board or committee. Reach out to the board members.
How does my contribution support the YSN or wider profession?
The Young Surveyors Network only exists in its numbers. Without volunteers and passionate young surveyors, we don’t have a network and we don’t have representation. Your contribution keeps the network alive and gives young surveyors a voice in the wider profession!