Credentials: Associate's degree in civil engineering technology from Purdue University

Position/Company: Crew Chief, Ken Herceg and Associates, South Bend, Ind.

Registered/licensed in: Indiana

Responsibilities: Fieldwork, plat preparation, training

Year started in profession: 1992

How started in profession: "[Surveying for me] started as a summer job between freshmen and sophomore year of college. [I] enjoyed the work so I switched my major to prepare myself to get licensed."

What you like best about land surveying: "The projects and jobsites vary. No two jobs and jobsites are the same."

What grinds you: "Very big route surveys. Once the initial control work is done, the topo begins and there isn't much challenge in locating features in the field."

What keeps you going in your job: "My wife and two little girls."

Best surveying memory: "I recently gave my instrument man something to laugh about. On a very windy day we were out looking for some property corners. I accidentally dropped the only copy of the subdivision plat I had. The marathon was on. I had to run about a quarter mile through the open field to catch it. It was like someone had a string on it and kept pulling it away from me every time I got close enough to grab it. Needless to say I had my exercise in for that day."

Accessories you can't leave home without: "HP calculator and a cup of coffee."

Greatest personal accomplish-ments: "Passing of the exam to receive my license. I worked full time in the surveying profession and went to school part time. It took me seven years to get my degree, but in that time I gained valuable experience working in the profession."

Reason why you're a role model for future surveyors: "I perform my work to the best of my ability. I try to lead by doing what is right. I train my crew so they too will perform to the best of their ability."

How surveyors can ensure future success in the industry: "As professionals, we need to work together and support each other. Being able to communicate and share information with other surveyors will keep our profession going in a positive direction. Working together will not only help surveyors keep their skills sharp, but it will also ensure that we do our very best work."