How has Joe Orr helped you to develop and expand your professional career as a Registered Professional Land Surveyor?
Baseline acquired our family business, Joe Orr, Inc., five years ago. Since then, I have grown professionally through the many BBI training and networking opportunities. Long-term planning and management of employees was new to me. Our reputation as one of the top surveying firms has been reinforced by the association with Baseline and BBI. Mr. Orr would be proud of us continuing the use of his name. He came to College Station to attend A&M College in 1919, 100 years ago.
What initially sparked your interest in surveying?
I was born into the surveying profession and began spending each summer at my father’s office when I was about 8. I learned all of the aspects of surveying without realizing it and was working in the field from the time I was 13. I liken it to growing up on a farm where you learn by watching and doing— it becomes a natural part of your life.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in surveying?
I often tell people that surveying is a great career, whether you want to pursue a professional license or become a CAD or field technician. No two projects are the same and you get to spend time both indoors and outdoors.
Describe your role at Joe Orr.
My title at Joe Orr is Regional Vice President. I do almost most everything: from answering the phone and preparing project proposals to planning each day’s tasks for the field crew, CAD techs, and myself. I do most of the office work on boundary survey projects, but utilize my staff for most topographic survey duties. I also perform QA/QC and delivery on all projects.
What’s been the most interesting place you’ve traveled to?
The most interesting place I have been is the Holy Land (Israel & Palestine). The scenery is rather barren, but the mix of cultures, religions, politics, and history makes for a great experience. Paraphrasing a t-shirt I saw there, I like to call the trip our “Guns and Moses” tour.
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