California Surveyors Forums

I recently participated in the grading of the state LS exam. I wanted to thank everyone that was present and supported me in this effort, even though I was brand new to the process. Many different people walked up to shake my hand, took time to answer my questions, and asked my opinion of the process. I never felt that I wasn't welcome because of my age or my lack of experience.

Working as an exam grader certainly changed my outlook as a professional and as a surveyor.

If you have never had an opportunity to participate in the grading process, or are licensed but currently a critic of the state specific exam, I strongly encourage you to get involved.

It is an eye-opening experience on many levels, and I am very thankful I made the decision to participate. I hope they will allow me to do so in the future.

Your input can make a difference for those taking the test!

The Sunburned Surveyor
(PLS 8489)

I was there, but we must have been on different problems! Glad you had a chance to see it from the other side.

Eric and Mr. Blake (Landon),

I commend you both for serving your profession. I have not participated yet, but hope to soon.

New licensees are very valuable to the process, not only because they keep those who have been licensed for several years grounded closer to the line that we are trying to measure (presumably, the new licensee is closer to that "only just competent" level as a PLS than the older licensee), but because they do bring the perspective of their experience, which may be different than others on their team.

I had the privilege to have Eric on my team both this yeear and last (as a new licensee). He brought a regional perspective, added quite a bit to our discussions and helped to form the decisions of thee grading team on the problem he graded.

There is no pecking order or sense of seniority on the grading team. Each team leader facilitates discussion, but beyond that, all voices and opinions of the team are equally considered, and each has the opportunity to add their opinion to the discussion.

As usual, we had a very good group of professionals involved this year.

Thanks Evan! I look at the experience as a chance to learn from everyone as well.