An Interview with Rob Mitchell – Licensed Surveyor with Kuker-Ranken
KR Interviewer
Today, we’re joined by Rob Mitchell from Kuker-Ranken, who’s got over 25 years of experience as a licensed surveyor in Washington. Rob, give us a brief introduction to what it means to be a surveyor.
Rob Mitchell:
Absolutely! I’ve had the chance to work in some amazing places like Washington, California, Alaska, Idaho, and Montana, which really opened my eyes to the different challenges and opportunities in surveying. What got me fired up was being out in the field—every day brought something new to tackle and learn about. I’ve seen so much change in surveying technology over the years. I respect the old-school methods because they laid the groundwork for what we do, but I’m all in on embracing the new digital tools out there. They really make our work more precise and efficient, so we can take on tougher projects without missing a beat.
KR Interviewer
What amazes you about those first land surveyors?
Rob Mitchell:
Those early land surveyors like George Washington, Samuel Adams, and Thomas Jefferson were all about using what was around them to figure out land boundaries, relying on things like rocks, trees, and streams. Back in their day, measuring things exactly was tough because of all the forests and rough terrain. Their methods showed they really understood the land and how to navigate it. This use of natural markers not only mixed science with nature but also emphasized the importance of knowing your surroundings—a principle that still holds true for us surveyors today!
KR Interviewer
Rob, what’s one of the best parts of your job at Kuker-Ranken?
Rob Mitchell:
One of the highlights for me is witnessing the power of modern technology in our surveying processes. Tasks that once required weeks or even months to complete can now be done in just a few days, which is incredibly rewarding. The technology we use is not only cutting-edge and highly accurate but also surprisingly user-friendly. I get genuinely excited when I have the opportunity to showcase these tools to our clients. It’s truly gratifying to see their faces light up as they brainstorm innovative ways to implement this technology in their own projects. Their enthusiasm only deepens my passion for what we do!
KR Interviewer
What advice would you give to someone just getting started in the Land Surveying profession?
Rob Mitchell:
If you’re just starting out in land surveying, my best advice would be to stay curious and open-minded. Embrace every learning opportunity, whether it’s through formal education, internships, or on-the-job training. Technology is rapidly evolving in this field, so being adaptable and willing to learn about new tools and methods is crucial. Build strong relationships with experienced professionals; they can offer invaluable insights and mentorship. Lastly, get comfortable with being outdoors and working in various weather and terrain conditions—it’s a big part of the job that can be both challenging and rewarding!
KR Interviewer
Thanks Rob. If you want to hear more from Rob he can be reached by contacting Kuker-Ranken through our website or by calling 800-454-1310.
