Ian Ferrell Texas-based Geographic Information System (GIS) professional with a strong academic foundation from Texas Tech University. He earned a BA in geography and the environment with a minor in GIS from Texas Tech University, where he was recognized on the president’s list and dean’s list. Ian Ferrell’s academic work has focused on GIS mapping, pipeline analysis, and environmental surveying, with applications in the oil and gas industry, particularly in Texas.
Mr. Ferrell gained industry experience through two internships at Plains All American Pipeline Company, where he worked with GIS software, pipeline mapping, and operational processes in the midstream sector. During his tenure, he developed maps, interpreted pipeline flow charts, and engaged in field operations such as pigging and maintenance. These experiences provided him with exposure to geospatial technology applications in energy infrastructure.
Mr. Ferrell is an active member of the American Association of Geographers and Pi Kappa Alpha. His interests include disaster response mapping, historical event visualization, and advancements in energy exploration technology. A committed volunteer, he has contributed over 100 hours to the Houston and Lubbock Food Banks. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, golfing, and supporting the Houston Texans and Texas Tech Red Raiders.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
I’m an early riser, I enjoy being productive in the mornings. I usually wake up and go to a coffee shop to work on my job search. Following this, I love to cook and enjoy making myself lunch. I hopefully then have some time to rest before continuing my day doing chores and maybe throwing in some time to go fish or play golf until dark. After dinner, I enjoy watching sports and finishing up my day with planning what work I’ll begin the next day!
How do you bring ideas to life?
I’m a goal-oriented individual who takes pride in delivering work that is accurate and completed to the best of my ability. When it comes to mapping, I enjoy bringing creativity into my work, designing informative maps with thoughtful layouts and visual elements that reflect both precision and imagination.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I’m excited about the future of GIS technology, from AI-assisted mapping and 3D GIS to widely-used software like Google Earth, Garmin Livescope, and ESRI’s suite of products. The rapid advancements in the field open up endless possibilities for innovation and practical applications.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
One thing I value about myself is my ability to start each day with energy and motivation. I channel this drive into accomplishing tasks early in the morning, setting a productive tone for the rest of the day. Getting things done right away not only keeps me focused but also pushes me to exceed my daily goals and accomplish more than I originally planned.
What advice would you give your younger self?
If I could give my younger self advice, I would remind him that the future holds a place for him and that everything will work out, even if the path isn’t always clear. I’d emphasize the importance of enjoying the present—never skipping those fishing trips, bike rides with friends, or simple moments that may seem small at the time but later become some of life’s most cherished memories.
While ambition and hard work are important, so is making time for the experiences that shape who you are. Life moves fast, and those moments of laughter, adventure, and connection are just as valuable as any achievement.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I reject the idea that everyone who disagrees with you has harmful intentions. I believe that, at our core, humans share a common goal—to succeed and build a fulfilling life. If we could recognize the natural desire for happiness in others, we might find more common ground and move past division.
Understanding this could help us focus less on differences and more on the shared aspirations that connect us.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Get outside. Humans are meant to be in nature, and even a short five-minute walk can have a huge impact on your mental and physical well-being. Take the time to step away from the indoors, breathe in fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. It’s a simple habit that can make a big difference in your day.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I feel overwhelmed or unfocused, I take a walk. Shifting my focus and giving my mind a reset through movement—especially outdoors—always helps. There’s something about being in motion that clears my head and brings a sense of clarity.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
One strategy that has helped me grow as a GIS professional is staying updated with the latest advancements in GIS technology. The field is rapidly evolving, with new tools, software, and techniques emerging all the time. I make it a priority to continuously learn the basics of new GIS applications, taking online courses, and staying engaged with industry forums. Whether it’s advancements in AI-driven mapping, 3D GIS, or improvements in ESRI’s ArcGIS suite, keeping up with these trends helps me develop relevant skills and stay competitive. By staying informed and adaptable, I ensure that I can bring fresh insights and innovative solutions to any GIS role.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
During COVID, as a freshman in college, I attended LSU. It was my first time away from home, in a place that felt empty due to the pandemic. During this time, I neglected both my mental health and my academics, which ultimately led to me losing my scholarship. As a result, I transferred to Texas Tech, where I had to start over in a completely new environment. Despite the challenges, I turned things around—graduating with a 3.5 GPA, forming lifelong friendships, and finding true happiness again. This experience taught me that it’s not about where you start, but how you finish.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
One piece of software that keeps me productive is the YouVersion Bible App. I use it daily for verses and devotionals that help me stay focused and motivated. It keeps me grounded, gives me clarity, and sets a positive tone for my day.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
I really enjoy the Modern Wisdom podcast because it features insightful guests and covers a wide range of topics, from self-improvement to psychology and success. The conversations challenge the way I think and offer practical advice that helps me stay motivated. It’s a great way to learn new ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and continue growing in both my personal and professional life.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently enjoyed Dead Poet’s Society. It made me smile and subtly reminded me to seize the day and focus on pursuing what truly makes me happy. The film’s powerful message about living authentically resonated with me and encouraged me to follow my passions.
Key learnings
- Invest in yourself by continuously learning and adapting to stay competitive in your field.
- Overcoming challenges and setbacks isn’t about where you start, but how you finish.
- Stay grounded and maintain focus with practices that nurture your mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
- Embrace creativity and passion in your work, and always pursue what truly makes you happy.
- Make time to step outside, as spending time in nature is essential for mental and physical well-being.