Josh Gray, GISP
For geographic information systems (GIS) specialist Josh Gray, using technology to solve simple or complex business or engineering challenges to help clients and colleagues drives his efforts on each project and is one of his favorite parts of his job.
While relatively new to Hanson, Josh brings more than 12 years of experience and education in computer science, GIS and transit planning. In his new role, Josh provides GIS mapping and analysis support for projects across Hanson’s six markets, serving a variety of clients.
Before joining Hanson’s Jacksonville, Florida, office, Josh was a GIS manager and senior transit planner for the Jacksonville Transportation Authority. He is a certified geographic information systems professional (GISP) and has served as the chair for the Northeast Florida GIS User Group since 2012. He has a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Jacksonville University and is pursuing a master’s degree in geographic information science administration at the University of West Florida.
Josh also volunteers as a board member for BASL Soccer Inc. in Jacksonville, which is a recreational adult soccer league offering indoor and outdoor activities. Since 2007, he has helped improve BASL’s business and technical processes, helping the organization win on and off the field.
Here, Josh talks more about his career and what motivates him at work and in life.
What led me to pursue this career?
The reason I chose GIS as a career path boils down to opportunity. I encountered a technology that could be applied to many industries and disciplines, and it was a path that provided many doors to choose from. Maps and computers were also fascinating to me, so it made sense. I went all-in!
Josh and his dog, Rose, celebrated her second birthday with a visit to Jekyll Island, Georgia.
What I do on a typical day on the job:
Implementing solutions that solve business problems. I am always looking for ways that GIS technology can simplify day-to-day tasks and encourage spatial thinking to answer difficult questions.
My favorite part of my job:
Bringing value to and improving the lives of my colleagues and clients. With purpose, it makes the journey fun and exciting.
What I like to do when I’m not working:
Graduate school is taking up most of my free time, but I do have several trips planned. I group travel as often as possible. My next trip will be to Costa Rica in May. Thailand and Malaysia have been my favorite destinations so far. I enjoy learning about other cultures and meeting new friends. There’s also a good chance you’ll run into me around town at local events or the dog park. I have a high-energy, 2-year-old supermutt.
One word that best describes me:
One of my closest and tenured colleagues suggested “tenacious.” I would have to say “resilient.”
Josh enjoys traveling and says one of his favorite trips was to Malaysia, where he and his travel group visited a tea plantation in Cameron Highlands.