Erik Potter

Erik Potter has a diverse and extensive work experience in various roles related to Geographic Information System (GIS) technology and utility infrastructure. Erik is currently the CEO of WDI Inc., where they lead a diverse group of professionals and sets the course and vision for the future of the company. In addition to their role as CEO, Erik also serves as the Chief People Officer, responsible for recruiting, developing, and retaining talent.

Prior to WDI Inc., Erik worked as a Principal Consultant at we-do-IT Inc., where they served electric and gas utilities with expertise in data quality, conflation, and integration. Erik was involved in geospatial data management, Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS), and utility networks.

Before that, Erik served as the Vice President of Professional Services, Customer Service, and Technical Support at American Innovations. There, they played a crucial role in providing hardware, software, cloud/SaaS, and consulting services to the energy industry, with a focus on compliance, remote monitoring, risk management, and geospatial technology.

Erik also gained experience as the Director of GIS and Information Services at Navitas Midstream Partners, where they established and directed Geographic Information System, Information Systems, and Office Systems for a midstream pipeline start-up. Erik managed business development GIS, maps, and spatial analysis, as well as all aspects of Information Technology and security.

In addition, Erik worked as the Manager of Geographic Information Services at CenterPoint Energy, where they directed the GIS for the fourth-largest investor-owned electric and gas utility in the United States, covering six states.

Before that, Erik was the GIS Coordinator at M3 Midstream LLC, where they created the GIS team and established data governance, standards, and procedures for survey, mapping, and right-of-way. Erik also developed a comprehensive pipeline routing analysis process, resulting in significant cost savings for the company.

Prior to M3 Midstream LLC, Erik co-founded and expanded GeoNav Group International, a high-tech geospatial firm known for providing innovative products and services. Erik managed, trained, and mentored GIS production and sales teams, and the company was recognized as a leader in utility mobile terrestrial mapping, spherical video, and LiDAR capture.

Earlier in their career, Erik held positions at ESC Engineering and Landmark Geographic Services, where they built and led GIS consulting groups serving the electric utility industry. Erik also founded their own GPS mapping and GIS consulting firm, Landmark Geographic Services.

Erik's career started as a Project Manager at Electrical Systems Consultants (ESC), where they managed electric utility asset inventory and GPS mapping projects across the United States, including mapping for the New Hampshire Electric Cooperative.

Before entering the private sector, Erik served in the U.S. Navy, where they acquired skills in mapping and asset inventory of electric distribution circuits.

Overall, Erik Potter's work experience spans a wide range of roles and responsibilities in GIS technology, utility infrastructure, and consulting services, demonstrating their expertise and leadership in these areas.

Erik Potter has a diverse education history with a focus on geography and cartography. Erik obtained their Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Business Administration and Management from Colorado State University Global in 2013. Erik then pursued further education in the field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and earned a Graduate Certificate in GIS from the University of Denver in 2014.

Continuing their educational journey, Erik obtained a Masters in Geographic Information Science from the University of Denver in 2017. During their time at this institution, they also obtained a post-graduate certificate in GIS in 2014.

Erik's interest in GIS extended beyond formal education as they achieved certification as a Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) from the GIS Certification Institute in 2013.

Erik's earlier education includes coursework in Political Science and GIS at Fort Lewis College from 1992 to 1996. Prior to that, they completed course work in various subjects such as Advanced Navigation and Periscope Photography at the Pacific Submarine Training Center from 1989 to 1992. Additionally, they received training in Submarine Systems & Tactics at U.S. Navy Submarine School in 1988. Erik also completed Army Combat Medic School in 1993, earning a diploma in Medic/EMT.

Furthermore, Erik gained certification as a Certified Mapping Trainer from Trimble in the field of GIS from 2003 to 2008.

Finally, Erik completed their high school education, earning a diploma from Durango Senior High School in 1988.

Overall, Erik Potter has a wide range of educational experiences, with a strong focus on GIS and the field of geography and cartography.