In 2021, GBA launched an initiative to Elevate Geoprofessional Value. The center piece of this effort is an Accord developed by an initiative Task Force.

The Accord consists of an aspirational mission and set of guiding principles (The Geoprofessional Value Accord) for broader consideration that… when signed onto (in ink or in spirit), and pursued by individuals and/or organizations, will elevate their value and that of the geoprofessions as envisioned.

Geoprofessionals are essential experts who create opportunities and solve challenges at the intersection of human enterprise and the earth’s resources.

We advance understanding and influence outcomes that enhance and sustain the aspirations of our clients, our communities, and our world.

Geoprofessionals make lives better, knowing and “engineering” our connections to the earth.

Our value is advanced when we…

• Are visible as leaders in our communities

• Are open to change, through a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching

• Are curious, embrace innovation, and lead technical advancement

• Act as trusted advisors that enhance outcomes rather than simply providing deliverables

• Communicate about risks and technical issues using familiar and transparent language

• Recognize, promote, and celebrate with passion the life-changing, heroic aspects of our work

• Stay involved with the entire life cycle of our projects

• Include the “long-view” in our thinking

• Support our professional societies through active participation

• Contribute to public policies through commentary, as advisors, in appointed positions or elected office

• Maximize our opportunities to lead projects

• Are selective about the projects and clients that we engage

• Seek diversity, equity and inclusion

• Hold paramount the health, safety and welfare of the public; and

• Serve as stewards of the earth