experience
Spencer McCutcheon, P.L.S., is the principle owner of Elevated Land Surveying in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The company’s services include boundary surveys, providing clear delineation of property lines to prevent disputes and ensure accurate land use. McCutcheon is dedicated to the surveying profession and volunteers his time on the national level for the Certified Survey Technician Board (CST) and the Young Surveyors Network (YSN). He also serves locally on the state board’s ethics and standards committee and legislative committee.
How did surveying become a passion of yours?
I first got interested in surveying just by watching surveyors work outside. I’ve always loved being outdoors, and seeing people out there, hands-on with the land, sparked something in me. I knew I wanted to be a part of that. I was lucky enough to have a mentor who not only gave me a shot at a job but also was deeply passionate about surveying. That passion was contagious—it inspired me and made me realize this could be more than just work. Surveying ended up being the perfect fit because it brings together everything I enjoy: the outdoors, technology, and solving real-world problems.
What advice would you give to those who are considering becoming a PS?
Don’t be afraid to jump in and try it. Surveying is such a hands-on career, and the best way to learn is by doing. Find a mentor, ask questions, and be open to different types of work—you might find your niche in something you didn’t expect. Also, focus on developing your problem-solving and tech skills early. Surveying is becoming more and more tech-driven, and staying sharp with tools like GPS, drones, or GIS can set you apart. And lastly, be patient. The path to becoming a P.S. takes time, but it’s absolutely worth it.
How is the NSPS Young Surveyors Network helping to shape the future of surveying, and why is that important to you?
YSN is doing a great job of building up the next generation of surveyors. It’s giving young professionals like me a platform to connect, grow, and stay involved with what’s happening in the industry. What I appreciate most is that they’re helping us feel seen and heard in a field that’s traditionally been older. They’re making room for fresh ideas and new energy, which is exactly what we need to keep surveying moving forward. To me, that matters because the future of the profession depends on how we support and develop new talent.
What are your overall thoughts on the future of surveying? Biggest opportunities? Biggest challenges?
I think the future of surveying is really exciting. With technology constantly evolving—drones, 3D scanning, LiDAR—there are more tools than ever to get the job done faster and more accurately. That creates big opportunities for innovation and growth, especially as infrastructure expands and cities get smarter. The challenge, though, is keeping up with all of that and making sure the next generation is trained and ready. We also need to do a better job of showing people what surveying actually is. A lot of people still don’t realize how essential we are to construction, land development, and planning. If we can meet those challenges, I think the future’s bright.
