VINCENNES — Vincennes University’s Surveying Technology program has been named the national $25,000 Grand Prize winner by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), honoring the program’s academic curriculum and dedication to training future licensed professionals.
The annual NCEES Surveying Education Award recognizes higher education surveying programs that demonstrate strong hands-on coursework, community engagement, and a proven track record of guiding students toward professional land surveyor licensure. VU was selected from a competitive pool of associate degree and technical programs nationwide.
Advancing Land Surveying Education
Vincennes University’s Surveying Technology program—part of the university’s College of Technology—combines traditional field measurement techniques with advanced technology, including geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS), satellite imaging, and high-definition 3D laser scanning.
The $25,000 award will support ongoing equipment upgrades, student scholarships, and recruitment efforts designed to meet a growing nationwide demand for qualified surveying professionals.
According to industry data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and professional surveying associations, the land surveying workforce faces a critical nationwide shortage driven by impending retirements. Programs that actively prepare students to pass the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam—the first required step toward earning a professional land surveyor (PLS) license—play a vital role in addressing infrastructure and development needs across the Midwest.
Recognition of Excellence
The NCEES award committee evaluated programs based on several criteria, including student outcomes, faculty credentials, integration of modern technology in the classroom, and collaboration with local professional surveying societies, such as the Indiana Society of Professional Land Surveyors (ISPLS).
University officials commended faculty members and students within the Surveying Technology department, noting that the national award underscores VU’s commitment to technical workforce training and high-demand career pathways.
Students interested in exploring surveying credentials, degree requirements, or career opportunities can learn more by visiting the Vincennes University Surveying Technology portal or contacting the VU College of Technology.
