Tom Lake Summary
Tom Lake, a name that resonates with those who have a keen interest in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and mapping technologies. With a career spanning over three decades, Lake has made significant contributions to the field, both through his professional work and his advocacy for open-source GIS software. Let’s delve into the various dimensions of Tom Lake’s life and work.
Early Life and Education
Tom Lake was born on February 24, 1956, in New York City. He grew up in a family that valued education and outdoor activities. Lake’s passion for geography and mapping began at an early age, influenced by his father, who was a cartographer. He pursued his undergraduate degree in Geography at the University of Buffalo, where he graduated in 1978. Later, he went on to earn his Master’s degree in Geography from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1980.
Professional Career
After completing his education, Lake embarked on a professional career that would shape the GIS industry. He started working at the University of Buffalo’s GIS Center, where he was involved in various mapping projects. In 1983, he joined the GIS division of the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), a leading GIS software company. At ESRI, Lake worked on the development of Arc/INFO, one of the earliest GIS software applications.
In 1989, Lake left ESRI to co-found his own company, Lakeview Consulting. The company specializes in GIS services, including mapping, spatial analysis, and software development. Over the years, Lakeview Consulting has worked on numerous projects for clients in various industries, such as government, environmental, and transportation.
Open-Source GIS Software Advocate
One of Tom Lake’s most significant contributions to the GIS industry is his advocacy for open-source GIS software. He has been a strong proponent of the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) movement, believing that open-source software can democratize access to GIS technology. Lake has been involved in several open-source GIS projects, including GRASS GIS and QGIS.
In 2001, Lake founded the Open Source GIS Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the use of open-source GIS software. The foundation provides resources, training, and support to users and developers of open-source GIS software. Lake’s efforts have helped to make open-source GIS software more accessible and affordable, enabling individuals and organizations worldwide to benefit from GIS technology.
Publications and Contributions
Tom Lake has authored several books and articles on GIS and mapping. His book, “Open Source GIS: A GRASS GIS Project,” is a comprehensive guide to using GRASS GIS, an open-source GIS software application. Lake has also contributed to various GIS journals and conferences, sharing his knowledge and expertise with the GIS community.
In addition to his writing, Lake has been involved in several GIS-related projects and initiatives. He has served on the board of directors of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo) and the Open Source GIS Foundation. Lake has also been a member of the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) and the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA).
Awards and Recognitions
Tom Lake’s contributions to the GIS industry have been recognized with several awards and honors. In 2006, he received the URISA Award of Merit for his work in promoting open-source GIS software. In 2010, Lake was named a GIS Hero by Esri, recognizing his contributions to the GIS community. In 2014, he received the ASPRS President’s Award for his outstanding contributions to the field of photogrammetry and remote sensing.
Personal Life
Tom Lake is married and has two children. He enjoys spending his free time hiking, biking, and kayaking. Lake is an avid photographer and has published several books on nature photography. His passion for the outdoors and his commitment to GIS have inspired many to pursue careers in the field.
Conclusion
Tom Lake’s career and contributions to the GIS industry have left an indelible mark on the field. From his early days as a cartographer to his current role as an advocate for open-source GIS software, Lake has been a driving force in the development and advancement of GIS technology. His dedication to promoting GIS education and accessibility has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals and organizations worldwide.
