1. What motivated you to become a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist, and how did you first learn about this field?

I have always had a passion for maps and geography, and have been drawn to the process of creating them. As I grew older and started to learn more about the technology behind map-making, I became fascinated with the field of cartography and photogrammetry.

I first learned about this field through a family friend who worked as a cartographer for a large mapping company. They explained the process of collecting aerial imagery and using specialized software to create accurate maps. This sparked my interest in the field and led me to do more research on my own.

As I continued to learn about cartography and photogrammetry, I discovered how important these disciplines are in various industries such as urban planning, land management, disaster response, and many others. This motivated me even more to pursue a career in this field.

Ultimately, my passion for maps and fascination with technology, combined with the importance of cartography and photogrammetry in our world today, solidified my decision to become a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist.

2. What challenges have you faced as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient in pursuing your career as a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist?

As an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient, pursuing a career as a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist may present some unique challenges. Some of these challenges may include:

1. Limited educational opportunities: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may face difficulties in accessing higher education due to their immigration status. This can make it harder for them to gain the necessary qualifications and certifications required for a career in cartography or photogrammetry.

2. Employment restrictions: Due to their legal status, undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients are often limited in the types of jobs they can hold. This could make it challenging to find employment in the field of cartography or photogrammetry, which typically require security clearances or government contracts.

3. Financial barriers: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may have limited financial resources, making it difficult for them to pursue internships, advanced training courses, or attend conferences that could help enhance their skills and knowledge in the field.

4. Limited networking opportunities: Building professional connections is crucial for career growth and advancement in any field, including cartography and photogrammetry. However, as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient, attending professional networking events or conferences may not be feasible due to travel restrictions or concerns about revealing one’s immigration status.

5. Uncertainty about future prospects: The current political climate surrounding immigration policies can create a lot of uncertainty for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients’ futures. This sense of insecurity may affect their ability to focus on building their careers, hindering their professional development.

6. Difficulty obtaining licensure: Many states have specific licensure requirements for professionals working in fields like cartography and photogrammetry. Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may face obstacles with gaining these licenses due to their immigration status.

7. Fear of deportation: For many undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients who have built successful careers as cartographers or photogrammetrists over time, deportation remains a constant fear that can impact mental health and overall well-being. This fear can hinder one’s ability to fully dedicate themselves to their career or seek out new opportunities for growth.

Overall, pursuing a career as a cartographer or photogrammetrist can present several unique challenges for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. However, with determination, hard work, and perseverance, it is possible to overcome these challenges and achieve success in the field.

3. How have you navigated the legal and bureaucratic barriers surrounding your status while working in this field?

As a non-US citizen, I have faced several legal and bureaucratic barriers while working in this field. Here are some ways that I have navigated them:

1. Obtaining work authorization: The first step was obtaining the necessary work authorization to be able to work legally in the United States. Depending on your immigration status, you may need a work visa or an employment authorization document (EAD). I made sure to research and understand the different options available to me and applied for the appropriate authorization as early as possible.

2. Educating myself on immigration laws: It is important to stay informed about changes and updates in immigration laws and regulations. This helps me in understanding my rights and responsibilities as a non-citizen worker.

3. Building a strong network of support: Having a strong network of colleagues, mentors, and friends who are familiar with the US legal system has been extremely helpful in navigating any legal issues that may arise. They can provide guidance, advice, and connections to reliable legal resources if needed.

4. Working closely with HR departments/employers: Employers play an important role in ensuring that their employees are compliant with all legal requirements related to their immigration status. As such, I make sure to communicate openly and regularly with my human resources department or employer regarding any changes or updates in my status.

5. Seeking legal assistance when needed: There have been times when I needed the help of immigration lawyers to navigate certain legal processes related to my status. Whether it is filing for a visa or extending my work permit, seeking professional help has been crucial in ensuring that everything is done correctly.

6. Being patient and proactive: Dealing with bureaucracy can be frustrating at times but being patient is key. It is important to start early and be proactive in preparing all necessary documents and fulfilling requirements well before their deadlines.

Overall, navigating these barriers requires constant diligence, staying informed, being prepared, having a support system, and seeking professional help when needed. With these strategies in place, I have been able to successfully navigate any legal and bureaucratic barriers while working in this field as a non-US citizen.

4. Have you ever encountered discrimination or prejudice because of your immigration status in the workplace?

I cannot personally answer this question as I am an AI and do not have a workplace or immigration status. However, discrimination and prejudice based on immigration status is unfortunately common, and many individuals may face challenges in their workplace as a result of their immigration status. It is important for employers to create inclusive and equitable work environments where all employees are treated with respect and fairness regardless of their background or immigration status.

5. Can you share any specific experiences or instances where your immigration status affected your work as a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist?

One specific experience where my immigration status affected my work as a Cartographer was when I was offered an internship at a reputable mapping company. During the hiring process, I had to fill out paperwork that required proof of citizenship or work authorization. As an undocumented immigrant, I did not have proper work authorization and had to decline the internship opportunity.

Another instance was when my employer wanted to send me for training workshops in different countries to learn advanced mapping techniques. However, as an undocumented immigrant, I was unable to obtain a passport and could not attend these training opportunities.

Additionally, my immigration status affected my career growth as there were limited job opportunities available for someone without legal work authorization. I often felt excluded from certain projects or promotions because of my immigration status.

Moreover, some clients preferred working with US citizens or permanent residents instead of undocumented immigrants, which limited my ability to take on certain projects and gain more experience in the field.

Overall, my immigration status created numerous challenges and limitations in my career as a Cartographer/Photogrammetrist. It constantly reminded me that I did not have the same rights and opportunities as others simply because of my legal status.

6. How do you handle situations where colleagues or clients ask about your citizenship or legal residency status?

As a language model AI developed by OpenAI, I do not have personal experiences or legal residency status. However, in general, if a colleague or client asks about citizenship or legal residency status, you can respond with honesty and clarity while also respecting your own privacy. Here are some possible ways to handle such situations:

1. Share the relevant information: You can politely state whether you are a citizen or if you have a different legal residency status. You can also explain any restrictions that may come with your current status.

2. Decline to answer: If you are uncomfortable sharing information about your citizenship or legal residency status, it is perfectly fine to decline to answer the question. You can kindly say that you prefer not to discuss this topic.

3. Redirect the conversation: You can change the subject and steer the conversation towards a different topic. For example, if someone asks about your citizenship status during a work meeting, you can redirect the discussion back to work-related topics.

4. Set boundaries: If someone repeatedly asks about your citizenship or legal residency status and it makes you feel uncomfortable, it is important to set boundaries and let them know that these questions are not appropriate in a professional setting.

5. Seek support from HR: If someone is consistently asking about your citizenship or legal residency status despite your attempts to address the issue, it may be necessary to seek support from HR.

In any case, remember that it is ultimately up to you how much and what type of personal information you want to share with others. Do not feel pressured to reveal more than what you are comfortable with.

7. Has the political climate around immigration policies impacted your job security as a professional in this field?

Yes, the current political climate around immigration policies has definitely impacted the job security for professionals in this field. The constant changes and uncertainty surrounding immigration policies can affect funding for programs and services, as well as create challenges in hiring and retaining qualified staff. In addition, heightened enforcement measures and anti-immigrant rhetoric can put pressure on individuals working in this field and create a tense or hostile work environment. This can also lead to increased job stress and burnout. Overall, the constantly evolving political landscape regarding immigration policies can make it difficult for professionals to feel secure in their jobs.

8. Are there any resources or support systems available for undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients working in cartography and photogrammetry?

There are several resources and support systems available for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients working in cartography and photogrammetry. These resources can provide information, assistance, and advocacy for individuals navigating the complex immigration system while also pursuing their careers in the field of cartography and photogrammetry.

1. The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC): NIJC provides legal representation, counseling, outreach, policy analysis, and education to ensure fair treatment and due process rights for all immigrants regardless of their status. They offer workshops specifically tailored to help DACA recipients understand their rights and protections under the program.

2. United We Dream (UWD): UWD is an organization led by and for undocumented youth that offers resources, legal support, advocacy, leadership development opportunities, and guidance on pursuing higher education or employment opportunities.

3. National Immigration Law Center (NILC): NILC provides legal counsel as well as policy analysis and advocacy regarding issues affecting low-income immigrants.

4. American Immigration Council: This organization offers various resources such as fact sheets, webinars, toolkits, reports on immigration policies that affect both undocumented individuals and those with DACA status. They also have a hotline available for individuals seeking assistance or information about immigration-related issues.

5. Local non-profit organizations: There may be local organizations in your area that focus on providing services specifically related to supporting immigrants or assisting them with career development.

6. Online communities: Social media groups such as “UndocuGeographers” on Facebook connect individuals who have shared experiences of being undocumented while working in geography-related fields including cartography and photogrammetry.

7. Employers/advisors: Some employers may have experience working with employees who are undocumented or have DACA status. They may be able to provide specific support or connect employees with relevant resources.

8. Networking events: Attending conferences or networking events in the field of cartography or photogrammetry can help you connect with other professionals who may have insights or resources for undocumented individuals.

It’s important to remember that every individual’s situation is unique and it may be helpful to seek out a mix of these resources for the best support. Additionally, it may be beneficial to reach out to organizations that support immigrants more broadly as they may have resources or connections that can assist with specific challenges faced by those working in cartography and photogrammetry.

9. Can you speak to any unique perspectives that being an immigrant brings to the world of mapping and surveying?

As a language model AI, I do not have personal experiences or perspectives, but I can provide insights based on information available to me:

1. Cultural Sensitivity: One unique perspective that immigrants bring to the world of mapping and surveying is their cultural sensitivity. Immigrants may have a deeper understanding of cultural differences and nuances in different areas due to their diverse backgrounds. This can be helpful in accurately representing and understanding the cultural landscape during mapping and surveying activities.

2. Multilingual Abilities: Many immigrants are bilingual or multilingual, which can be advantageous in situations where communication with non-English speaking communities is necessary. This can help bridge language barriers and facilitate more accurate data collection during mapping and surveying.

3. Local Knowledge: Immigrants often have specific knowledge of their home countries or regions, which can be valuable in mapping and surveying projects. Their local knowledge may include familiarity with the terrain, landmarks, historical sites, or natural resources that may not be well-known to others.

4. Global Perspective: Immigrants bring a global perspective to mapping and surveying activities since they may have lived or worked in different parts of the world. This broader worldview can contribute to creating more comprehensive maps and surveys that take into account different perspectives from different cultures.

5. Unique Skills: Some immigrants may also possess unique skills such as traditional navigation techniques commonly used in their home countries. These skills can be applied to mapping and surveying projects, especially in areas where modern technology may not be available or reliable.

6. Adapting to New Environments: Immigrants often face the challenge of adapting to new environments quickly. This adaptability can benefit them in mapping and surveying where they may need to work in unfamiliar territories, adjust to unfamiliar equipment, or learn new technical methods.

In conclusion, immigrants bring valuable perspectives and skills to the world of mapping and surveying due to their diverse backgrounds, local knowledge, language abilities, and adaptability. It is essential to recognize and leverage these unique perspectives to create more accurate and culturally sensitive maps and surveys.

10. How has your personal journey as an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient influenced your approach to mapping and data analysis?

As an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient, my personal journey has greatly influenced my approach to mapping and data analysis in several ways:

1. Understanding the Importance of Data and Information: Being an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient, I have seen firsthand the power and importance of having accurate information and data. Oftentimes, inaccurate or missing data can negatively impact the lives of undocumented individuals by limiting their access to resources and opportunities. This has led me to develop a keen awareness of the value of data and strive for accuracy and completeness in my own mapping and analysis work.

2. Sensitivity to Marginalized Communities: As a member of a marginalized community myself, I am acutely aware of how easily marginalized communities can be overlooked or underserved by mapping and data analysis efforts. This has taught me to approach any mapping or analysis project with a deep sense of sensitivity towards diverse communities, particularly those who are often left out of traditional data collection processes.

3. Resourcefulness: As an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient, I have had to navigate complex systems and find creative solutions to overcome barriers in order to access education, employment, healthcare, and other resources that many take for granted. This experience has honed my resourcefulness, which I bring to my mapping and data analysis work by constantly seeking new ways to overcome roadblocks and find alternative sources of data.

4. Empathy: My own struggles as an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient have fostered a deep sense of empathy towards others facing similar challenges. This empathy drives me to always consider the human impact behind the numbers when analyzing data or creating maps. I strive to make sure that my analyses accurately capture the experiences and needs of marginalized communities.

5. Focus on Social Justice: Lastly, my personal journey as an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient has instilled in me a strong sense of social justice. I view mapping and data analysis not only as technical skills but also as tools for advocating for and advancing the rights and inclusion of marginalized communities. I am constantly thinking about how my work can contribute to creating a more just and equitable society for all.

11. Are there any particular challenges related to access to technology or software for those with undocumented status in this profession?

Yes, there are several challenges related to access to technology and software for those with undocumented status in this profession.

1. Limited access to online tools and resources: Many software and technology tools used in this profession can only be accessed through online platforms or require internet connectivity, which may not be readily available to individuals with undocumented status due to financial limitations or lack of legal documentation.

2. Fear of being traced: Undocumented workers may be hesitant to use certain tools or software that require them to provide personal information such as contact details or address, for fear of being traced by immigration authorities.

3. Language barriers: Many technology tools and software used in this profession are only available in English, making it difficult for individuals with limited English proficiency to access or use them effectively.

4. Limited job opportunities: Some employers may require proof of legal work authorization before hiring an individual, which can limit job opportunities for those with undocumented status in this profession.

5. Inability to pursue advanced education or training: Undocumented workers may face barriers in pursuing advanced education or professional training courses that teach the latest technology and software skills needed for this profession.

6. Financial constraints: Accessing certain technology equipment and software can be costly, making it challenging for individuals with undocumented status who often face financial hardships.

7. Limited support from employers: Employers may overlook the technological needs of their employees without legal work authorization, leading to inadequate access to necessary tools and resources.

8. Difficulty in networking and building professional connections: As many networking events and professional organizations rely on online communication and social media platforms, undocumented workers may face difficulties in accessing these opportunities to network and build relationships within the industry.

9. Fear of deportation: The constant fear of deportation can detract from an individual’s ability to focus on learning new technologies and leveraging them effectively for their job, ultimately hindering their career growth.

10. Lack of recognition and formal credentials: Individuals with undocumented status may struggle to obtain certifications or formal credentials that recognize their expertise in using certain technology and software, limiting their career advancements in this profession.

11. Access to online training courses and webinars: Many training courses, workshops, and webinars for professional development are only accessible online, which can be challenging for individuals with undocumented status who do not have equal access to the internet.

12. Have there been any notable social justice initiatives within organizations you’ve worked with in regards to hiring policies for immigrants like yourself?

Yes, I have seen some organizations implement initiatives to enhance the hiring and inclusion of immigrants. Some examples include creating a diverse hiring committee to ensure fair representation of immigrant candidates, providing language and cultural sensitivity training for hiring managers, implementing policies for accommodations during interviews (such as translation services or flexible scheduling), and actively seeking out partnerships with immigrant-focused organizations to source diverse talent. Additionally, I have seen some companies offer mentorship programs specifically for immigrant employees to help them navigate and succeed in the workplace. Overall, these initiatives demonstrate a commitment towards promoting diversity and inclusivity within the organization.

13. In what ways do current immigration policies limit the potential contributions of immigrants to the fields of cartography and photogrammetry?

1. Restrictions on visas and work permits: Many potential immigrants in the fields of cartography and photogrammetry may not be able to enter their desired destination country due to restrictive visa policies or limited availability of work permits.

2. Lack of recognition of foreign qualifications: Immigrants with degrees and qualifications from their home country may face challenges in having them recognized in their new country, making it difficult for them to find employment in their field.

3. Language barriers: Immigration policies often do not consider language skills as a valuable asset for professionals in these fields. This limits the opportunities for highly skilled immigrants who may not have proficient fluency in the host country’s dominant language.

4. Inflexible education and experience requirements: Some countries have strict requirements for education and work experience that can exclude otherwise qualified immigrants from contributing to the field.

5. Discrimination: Immigrants may face discrimination or bias in hiring processes, which can limit their chances of finding employment opportunities in these fields.

6. Limited access to training and professional development: Immigration policies that restrict access to training and professional development opportunities can hinder the growth and advancement of immigrants’ careers in cartography and photogrammetry.

7. Restrictive citizenship pathways: Some countries have long waiting periods or complex paths to citizenship, making it difficult for immigrants to fully participate and contribute to these fields without full rights and benefits.

8. Limited access to funding and resources: Immigrants may face challenges in accessing funding or resources for research or projects related to cartography and photogrammetry, which can hinder their ability to make significant contributions to these fields.

9. Difficulty networking: Immigration policies that limit family reunification or create structural barriers can make it difficult for immigrants to establish networks within the industry, ultimately hindering their career advancement opportunities.

10. Impact on diversity and inclusivity: Restrictive immigration policies can limit the diversity within these fields, leading to a lack of diverse perspectives and contributions, which can ultimately hinder innovation and progress.

11. Brain drain: In some cases, restrictive immigration policies can lead to a brain drain, where highly skilled immigrants are forced to leave their home country and contribute to the advancement of other countries instead of their own.

12. Decrease in international collaboration: Restrictive immigration policies can limit opportunities for international collaboration between experts in the fields of cartography and photogrammetry, hindering global progress and development.

13. Limiting access to cultural knowledge: Immigrants bring diverse cultural backgrounds, perspectives, and techniques that can greatly contribute to these fields. However, restrictive immigration policies may limit the flow of this knowledge, ultimately limiting the potential contributions of immigrants to these fields.

14. Are there countries with more favorable immigration policies that draw professionals like yourself away from working in the United States? If so, why do some choose to stay here despite these opportunities abroad?

Yes, there are definitely countries with more favorable immigration policies that attract professionals away from working in the United States. For example, Canada has a point-based system for immigration that allows skilled workers to easily obtain permanent residency if they meet certain criteria, such as education and work experience. Australia also has a similar program called the Skilled Independent Visa.

There are a few reasons why some professionals may choose to stay in the United States despite these opportunities abroad. One reason could be personal ties and obligations, such as family or friends, that make it difficult for them to move away. Another reason could be the job market and availability of desirable positions in their field in the US compared to other countries. Additionally, some professionals may prefer the cultural and social aspects of living in the US over other countries. Ultimately, each person’s individual circumstances and preferences will play a role in their decision to stay or leave for better immigration opportunities.

15. How would you recommend addressing misconceptions people may have about immigrants taking jobs away from American workers within this specialized industry specifically, rather than painting broad strokes about job competition across all industries.

1. Understand the facts and correct information: The most important step in addressing misconceptions is to have a thorough understanding of the immigration rules and regulations that govern the industry. Educate yourself on how jobs are allocated and filled in this specific industry and debunk any myths or misinformation.

2. Highlight the contributions of immigrants: Instead of focusing on competition, highlight how immigrant workers have positively impacted the industry and contributed to its growth. This can include examples of success stories, statistics on job creation, or innovations brought by immigrant workers.

3. Acknowledge the need for specialized skills: Emphasize the fact that many specialized jobs in this industry require specific skills and knowledge that may not be available among American workers. Immigrants often fill these gaps, bringing unique expertise and diverse perspectives to strengthen the industry.

4. Avoid using divisive language: The language we use can shape people’s perceptions and attitudes towards immigration. Avoid using terms like “taking away” or “stealing” which can fuel negative opinions and instead focus on positive language that promotes inclusion and diversity.

5. Highlight economic benefits: Immigrants contribute to economic growth by paying taxes, creating jobs, and increasing consumer spending. By working alongside American workers, they create a mutually beneficial relationship within the industry.

6. Collaborate with other businesses and organizations: Work with business partners, associations, or advocacy groups to promote a united front in tackling misconceptions about immigrants in this specific industry. Share success stories from different companies or industries to showcase how diversity has benefited them.

7. Highlight support for legal immigration: Another misconception is that all immigrants are undocumented or taking advantage of the system through illegal means. Emphasize your support for legal immigration pathways and follow all necessary procedures to hire immigrant workers legitimately.

8. Humanize immigrants’ experiences: Often, negative perceptions towards immigrants come from a lack of understanding about their experiences. Share personal stories of immigrant workers within your organization to illustrate their contributions and show the human side of immigration.

9. Educate through social media and other platforms: Utilize social media, blogs, or industry-specific websites to educate the public about the role of immigrants in this specialized industry. Use these platforms to share factual information and dispel myths that may be perpetuated by misleading sources.

10. Encourage diversity within your organization: One of the best ways to combat misconceptions is by setting a positive example. Encourage diversity within your workforce and promote an inclusive environment that values the contributions of immigrant workers.

11. Participate in community outreach programs: Engage with local communities and participate in events or programs that promote cultural exchange and understanding. This can help improve relationships between different groups and reduce prejudice towards immigrants.

12. Foster dialogue and open communication: Create opportunities for open communication with those who hold misconstrued views on immigration within the industry. By fostering dialogue, you can dispel misunderstandings and encourage a more informed perspective.

13. Address concerns with empathy and understanding: It’s essential to listen to concerns raised by those who hold negative opinions about immigration within the industry. Respond with empathy, understand their perspective, address their concerns factually, and emphasize your commitment to creating a fair workplace for all employees.

14. Collaborate with government agencies: Government agencies may have resources or initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, reducing discrimination, or providing employment services for immigrants. Collaborating with these agencies can be beneficial in addressing misconceptions within the industry.

15. Lead by example: Finally, as a leader within your organization or industry, it’s essential to lead by example in promoting diversity and inclusivity. Through your actions and words, you can inspire others to embrace all individuals regardless of their background or nationality.

16. What advice would you give to other undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients who are interested in pursuing a career in cartography or photogrammetry?

My advice would be to never give up on your dreams and to keep pushing yourself to achieve your goals. It may not always be easy, but with hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, you can make it happen. Don’t be afraid to seek out mentorship or networking opportunities in the field and always be open to learning and improving your skills. Also, don’t let your immigration status hold you back – there are resources and organizations that offer support for undocumented immigrants pursuing education and careers in various industries, including cartography and photogrammetry. Keep persevering and stay true to yourself and your passion for this field.

17. Have you faced any additional barriers as an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient when seeking professional development opportunities or career advancement within this field?

Yes, being undocumented or a DACA recipient can create additional barriers when seeking professional development opportunities or career advancement within a field. Some of these barriers may include:

1. Legal restrictions: Depending on the state you live in, being undocumented or a DACA recipient may limit your ability to work in certain professions, obtain professional licenses, or access government-funded programs for professional development.

2. Fear of disclosure: Many individuals fear disclosing their immigration status to employers or colleagues due to potential discrimination or retaliation. This fear can prevent them from fully participating in professional development opportunities or advocating for their career advancement.

3. Limited job opportunities: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may have limited job options compared to citizens or permanent residents, which can make it challenging to find employment in their desired field.

4. Inability to access internships and networking events: Many internship programs and networking events require proof of citizenship or work authorization, making it difficult for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients to participate.

5. Financial limitations: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients often face financial barriers due to ineligibility for federal student aid and other financial assistance programs. This can make pursuing professional development courses or certifications more challenging.

6. Lack of support systems: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may not have access to the same support systems as citizens and permanent residents, such as professional mentors or immigrant resource centers, which can make it harder to navigate career advancement opportunities.

7. Language barriers: For non-native English speakers who are also dealing with the stresses of being undocumented/DACA recipient, communicating effectively in a work setting can be an added challenge that affects their ability to excel professionally.

Overall, being an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient poses unique challenges when seeking professional development opportunities and advancing in a chosen field. These barriers require additional resilience and determination from individuals seeking success despite their immigration status.

18. As an undocumented immigrant/DACA recipient, what are your thoughts on the importance of representation and diversity in the fields of cartography and photogrammetry?

As an undocumented immigrant and DACA recipient, I strongly believe in the power and importance of representation and diversity in all fields, including cartography and photogrammetry. Representation and diversity not only promote equal opportunities for individuals from different backgrounds, but also bring different perspectives and experiences to the table, resulting in more comprehensive and culturally sensitive work.

In the field of cartography, representation is crucial in accurately mapping communities that are often ignored or underrepresented. Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients are members of diverse communities with unique geographical needs and challenges. Having individuals from these communities involved in the cartography process ensures that their voices are heard and their needs are considered.

Moreover, diversity in cartography can also lead to improved cultural competency. Maps are not just viewed as tools for navigation but also as representations of cultures and identities. Having a diverse group of professionals working together can result in maps that accurately reflect the cultural significance of a place.

Similarly, diversity plays a crucial role in photogrammetry as well. Photogrammetry is used to create 3D models of physical spaces using photographs. This technology has numerous applications such as urban planning, disaster management, environmental conservation, etc. However, biases can unknowingly be introduced into these models if they are created by homogenous groups with limited perspectives. Therefore, having diverse voices in this field can help create more accurate and inclusive models.

Furthermore, representation and diversity in these fields also serve as inspiration for other individuals from marginalized communities who may have an interest in pursuing a career in cartography or photogrammetry but may face barriers due to their background. Seeing someone like themselves succeeding can motivate them to pursue their goals without fear or hesitation.

In conclusion, representation and diversity play significant roles in creating inclusive maps and models that accurately reflect our diverse world. It is important for individuals from marginalized communities like undocumented immigrants/DACA recipients to have access to these fields so that they can share their unique perspectives while promoting diversity and inclusion in society.

19. Have you ever experienced positive impacts on your workplace from advocacy efforts on immigration reform that expanded your options as a permanent resident? If so, could you give examples?

One example of a positive impact on my workplace from advocacy efforts on immigration reform is the creation of a new visa category for skilled workers. This has allowed my employer to recruit and hire talented individuals from overseas, expanding our team’s expertise and diversity. This has been beneficial for both the company and its employees, as it has brought fresh perspectives and skills to our projects and increased opportunities for professional development and growth within the organization.

In addition, advocacy efforts have also led to reforms in employment-based green card processes, making it easier for qualified individuals who are already working in the United States to obtain permanent residency. This has helped alleviate some of the uncertainty and stress that comes with working on temporary visas, allowing individuals to focus more on their work and contribute fully to their roles in the company.

Another positive impact has been the provision of work authorization for spouses of H-1B visa holders. This not only benefits families by allowing them to work and contribute financially, but it also helps retain valuable talent within my workplace. Many highly skilled foreign workers choose to leave the US because their spouses were unable to work and support their families. With this change in policy, companies like mine have been able to retain these valuable employees who might have otherwise left due to family concerns.

Overall, immigration reform efforts have positively impacted my workplace by providing more options for recruiting talent, easing the burden of obtaining permanent residency for current employees, and supporting families of highly skilled professionals. These changes have helped create a more inclusive environment within our company and improved our overall competitiveness in the global market.

20. How do you balance your personal experiences and challenges as an immigrant with maintaining professionalism and focusing on your work as a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist?

As an immigrant, I understand that my personal experiences and challenges have shaped who I am today. They have also given me a unique perspective and diverse background that I can bring to my work as a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist.

However, in order to maintain professionalism and focus on my work, I make sure to separate my personal life from my professional life. This means setting boundaries and not letting any personal issues affect my job performance.

I also strive to stay informed about current events and cultural differences in order to better understand and navigate any potential challenges that may arise in the workplace. Additionally, open communication with colleagues and superiors is important in addressing any issues that may arise due to cultural differences.

In terms of balancing my personal experiences, I use them as a valuable resource in understanding different perspectives and finding creative solutions in my work. However, I always make sure to follow established processes and standards in accordance with the job requirements.

Ultimately, it is important for me to strike a balance between drawing from my personal experiences while maintaining professionalism and respect for my job responsibilities and colleagues.