Nikolas Smilovsky, PhD, GISP

Geospatial Evangelist | Solutions Provider | Public Speaker | Educator

Kerrville, Texas, United States

About

Dr. Smilovsky is a geospatial professional, educator, and self described *Geoholic* with over two decades of experience advancing the GIS and surveying professions across industry and academia. He has worked in private consulting, applied research, and higher education, specializing in collecting, analyzing, and communicating geographic data in ways that are both technically rigorous and human centered. An energetic speaker and dedicated teacher, Dr. S is driven by a deep love of place and a belief that maps shape how people understand and navigate the world. His interests include the geography of behavior, sustainable and resilient geodesign, innovative geospatial pedagogy, particularly online education, and the creative integration of emerging spatial technologies. Passionate about mentoring and pushing boundaries, he blends technical expertise with motivation and storytelling to inspire the next generation of geospatial professionals.

Experience

  • Geospatial Solutions Director at Bad Elf, LLC
    Jun 2019 - Present · 7 yrs 2 mos

    As director, I spearhead the design, implementation, and support of cutting-edge geospatial solutions, ensuring seamless integration with organizational objectives. My role extends beyond technical aspects to encompass typical managerial responsibilities, including overseeing project timelines, resource allocation, and team coordination. Additionally, I am committed to prioritizing customer education and support, considering it the foundation of successful implementation. In my approach, facilitating user understanding takes precedence, fostering a culture where innovation aligns with user needs and operational excellence.

  • Arizona State University (Tempe, Arizona)
    • Instructor
      Aug 2018 - Present · 8 yrs

      I am an instructor and geospatial researcher in the Herberger Institute of Design and the Arts (HIDA).

    • Associated Faculty (Part time)
      Sep 2009 - Aug 2018 · 9 yrs

      I taught a variety of GIS classes in both the School of Geographic Sciences and Urban Planning (SGSUP) and the Herberger Institute of Design (HIDA).

  • Adjunct Professor at Austin Community College
    Apr 2022 - Dec 2023 · 1 yr 9 mos

    Geographic Information Systems professor.

  • Director of Mapping at BPG Designs
    Feb 2015 - Aug 2018 · 3 yrs 7 mos

    I served as the director of a comprehensive mapping team, exclusively focused on delivering high-caliber geospatial services. Our primary service portfolio encompassed GIS asset mapping, tailored online web mapping applications, mobile LiDAR collection, static LiDAR collection, and UAV/aerial data acquisition.

  • Associate Professor (Part time) at Mesa Community College
    Sep 2015 - Jan 2018 · 2 yrs 5 mos

    I helped run an internship program for students in the Geospatial Technologies program.