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Expert Spotlight: Joe Larkins

Role: Survey Technician

Expertise: Joe Larkins is Nave Newell’s EXPERT in ALTA Surveys and Palaeography.

How did you become an expert in ALTA Surveys?

After many years working in both the field and the office, you tend to come across many different situations, and as one gains experience, there are more internal resources and situations to draw upon. Being able to look at each situation from both a field and office perspective has helped me become an expert in ALTA Surveys.

Another skill I have that is less known, but still helpful for ALTA surveys is Palaeography – the study of historic writing systems and the deciphering and dating of historical manuscripts, including the analysis of historic handwriting. Anyone that has reviewed a title report and often-historical documentation that is contained, will know what I am saying!

Years at Nave Newell: 17 years

Education: Associates Degree in Land Surveying and Technology, Louisiana Tech University; Bachelors Degree in Bible, Cairn University (a recent client)

Favorite Nave Newell Project: The Lower Providence Township Sewer Authority project with Gannett Fleming. We’re working on it now, and have been for a while, helping the Township Authority with sewer replacement and expansion. It’s interesting to see how such a big project like this comes together.

Favorite Nave Newell Way Fundamental: Keep Family First. Family is my top focus and has always been a key part of my life.

Joe’s Family and Fun Facts

Family: Wife, Kelli and four kids – Kiah (21), Joseph Jr. (19), Aliyah (15), Jayson (12)

Favorite way to relax on the weekend: Spending time with the family at extracurricular activities – mostly watching basketball games and track meets.

Favorite vacation destination: Going back home to Louisiana. I spent the first 20 years of my life there.

Hidden Talents: Ordained Minister

Favorite book: The Bible

Favorite quote: “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t’ see the whole staircase” – MLK

Professional Questions

What attracted you most to Nave Newell?

The flexibility and family-first attitude. My previous jobs didn’t have that especially when I was working mostly in the field.

What do you like most about your job?

The math side of it. That’s why I got into surveying.

Who’s your mentor?

Matt Kelly, Nave Newell’s Survey Department Manager

What’s your goal for 2023?

Achieve the Land Surveyor in Training (LSIT) Certificate – starting the process now.

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