From the Campus to the Field: GSS Interns Head West and North for Summer 2026
At GeoSpatial Services (GSS), our mission extends far beyond the computer screen. While data and mapping are the foundation of what we do, the true heart of conservation happens on the ground—in the rivers, forests, and wetlands that sustain our communities.
This summer, we are proud to send four of our GSS interns—Alexus Vang, Lola Schwinghamer, Katherine Goergon, and Daniel Araoz—into the field. Supported by the generosity of our GSS benefactors, these students will be working directly with industry partners to conduct vital environmental research and restoration work.
Meet the Field Crew
Lola Schwinghamer – Rio Grande Return Lola is heading to the arid Southwest to work with Rio Grande Return. Building on her previous experience in Alaska, Lola will now trade the tundra for the riverbanks of New Mexico. She will be assisting in low-tech, process-based restoration efforts to foster resilience in the unique ecosystems of the Rio Grande.
Daniel Araoz – Kodiak Soil and Water Conservation District Daniel is off to the rugged landscapes of Kodiak Island, Alaska. Following in the footsteps of past GSS interns like Leah Ramsey, Daniel’s work will be heavily field-based. He will support local conservation efforts, which often include invasive species management, soil health studies, and restoring fish passages for salmon habitat.
Alexus Vang – University of Montana O'Connor Center Alexus will spend her summer in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Working through the O'Connor Center for the Rocky Mountain West, she will contribute to field-based monitoring and natural history data collection. Her work helps regional stakeholders understand the complex challenges facing the "headwaters" of North America.
Katherine Goergon – Kenai Watershed Forum Katherine is also heading North to Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. She will be on the front lines of watershed science, assisting with water quality monitoring, stream temperature logging, and hands-on restoration projects designed to protect the region’s world-famous salmon runs.
GSS Partner Interns: Alexus Vang (WSU), Lola Schwinghamer (SMU), Katherine Goergon (SMU), & Daniel Araoz (SMU)
The Power of Field Experience
These internships represent a critical bridge between academic learning and professional practice. By getting their boots muddy and working side-by-side with seasoned conservationists, our students gain a deep, practical understanding of the environments they spend the rest of the year mapping.
We are incredibly grateful to our generous benefactors whose support makes these paid internships possible. Their investment allows Alexus, Lola, Katherine, and Daniel to travel across the country, gain invaluable field skills, and make a real difference for our industry partners.
Safe travels to our interns—we look forward to hearing your stories from the field!
To stay updated on our interns' summer adventures and learn more about our work, visit www.geospatialservices.org.
