President's Remarks - Summer 2026

As we move toward the summer months, it appears that Pennsylvania surveyors are busier than ever. PSLS committees continue to meet regularly and remain active on many important initiatives. The Education Committee is working diligently on the 2027 Conference and future educational programs. The Bylaws Committee has been providing model bylaws for chapters to adopt if they do not already have them in place. Our Legislative Committee continues to keep us informed on developments and activities in Harrisburg, while many of our other committees also continue to hold productive meetings. 

This spring, I had the opportunity to attend several chapter meetings, including South Central, Harrisburg, Southwest, and Laurel Highlands. These visits allowed me to connect directly with our membership and strengthen relationships across the Society. Attending chapter meetings remains one of the best ways to meet fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections within PSLS. 

In April, I had the pleasure of serving as a judge, alongside other PSLS members, at the 2025 ASCE Mid-Atlantic Student Symposium. Student teams competed in both plat and field events, showcasing their talent and dedication to the profession. It was a rewarding experience for everyone involved and encouraging to see the next generation of surveyors and engineers developing their skills. 

On May 12–14, PSLS hosted Pennsylvania’s first NSPS FEMA Certified Floodplain Surveyor (CFS) review course and examination, with approximately 30 attendees participating. The course consisted of an intensive three-day program culminating in the certification examination for the CFS designation. This was an important milestone for our Society and the profession within Pennsylvania. 

Unfortunately, we also learned that Penn State will be closing its current four-year bachelor’s degree program in surveying. This is particularly concerning at a time when the land surveying profession continues to face workforce declines due to a variety of factors. PSLS remains engaged in discussions with Penn State regarding future educational opportunities, and we have established a Higher Education Committee to explore additional pathways for land surveyor education and recruitment. 

Speaking of committees, we have several committees that could benefit from your voice and involvement. If you are interested in participating, please contact PSLS at psls@psls.org for more information, or visit our social media pages to learn more about current activities and opportunities to get involved. 

As our Society continues to move forward and take on new challenges, our success depends on the collective focus, professionalism, and dedication of our members. True productivity requires us to be respectful of both our own time and the time of those around us. By minimizing unnecessary distractions, encouraging collaboration, and supporting one another, we can continue strengthening PSLS and advancing the surveying profession across Pennsylvania. 

In closing, let’s see where our members travel this summer. We encourage you to send in your vacation survey monument photos from your travels. I hope everyone has a safe, enjoyable, and wonderful summer. 

Troy A. Leighty, PLS  

PSLS President 

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