Jake Murawski: Meet our Experts Series

From maps to meaningful impact  

Jake Murawski is of one of OHM Advisors’ leaders in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Innovative Technologies group. Jake’s team develops GIS-based solutions, supports infrastructure asset management projects, and completes utility structure inventory and mapping projects for many of OHM Advisors’ clients. We sat down with Jake to learn more about how he helps communities leverage the power of GIS to support capital improvement planning and data-driven infrastructure decisions.

Quick Facts: 

• Title: Project Manager, GIS 
• Experience: With OHM since 2015; three years prior experience

Helping communities make better decisions through GIS technology

Jake started at OHM Advisors’ Livonia, Michigan office before moving to the Toledo, Ohio area in 2023. As the second employee in our Perrysburg location, Jake has helped grow the office to more than 20 professionals in less than three years. Jake applies a strong work ethic and technical skills to develop custom GIS-based solutions that solve our clients’ most complex challenges, from updating antiquated water utility records to developing solutions with industry partners to lessen the amount of fats, oil, and grease entering the public sewer system.  He also serves as a firmwide GIS resource, training and mentoring colleagues across OHM Advisors’ many disciplines and offices.

How did you get introduced to the GIS career path? 

I’ve always been interested in reading maps and exploring the outdoors, which led me to take geography classes at Central Michigan University. “Intro to GIS” was a core elective, and I quickly decided that I wanted to major in GIS. I love how GIS can be related to so many different fields. My grad school advisor, Dr. Brian Becker, mentored me and helped me secure an internship with the Isabella County Drain Commission, which included surveying, GIS, and computer-aided design and drafting responsibilities. My time at the drain commission provided me with valuable experience as I was finishing up my master’s degree in GIS, leading me to a career at OHM Advisors.

You mentioned you found your calling in GIS. What do enjoy most about what you do? 

I get to connect with people in many different communities across OHM’s geographic footprint. I like sharing how GIS can be leveraged in ways they might not have known or considered. When clients or coworkers have ideas, goals, or challenges, I enjoy working with our team to develop GIS-based solutions.

I get to connect with people in many different communities across OHM’s geographic footprint. I like sharing how GIS can be leveraged in ways they might not have known or considered.

What does that process look like? How do you go about developing those solutions for clients? 

We begin by asking a lot of questions. No two clients are the same, so we first evaluate their existing GIS system and how they use data. This sets the stage for our recommendations. For example, we’re currently developing several water system management programs. The programs consist of ArcGIS Field Maps and Dashboards that help the municipality or utility district track routine maintenance on their water distribution system assets. We talk our clients through the baseline template and then determine what insights and information will benefit them. After we build out the solution, we provide hands-on training, documentation, and support, so the program delivers meaningful value.

What are some examples of how OHM Advisors’ clients are using GIS to improve efficiencies and outcomes in their communities?

Many cities are seeing the value of restructuring their GIS to access trusted data in the field, respond quickly, and make more informed decisions. For example, the City of Saline engaged OHM Advisors to recreate their GIS platform from the ground up by taking inventory of their water and sewer systems, digitizing their records, and updating the system. With the new GIS in place, Saline can leverage the platform to track maintenance, including hydrant flushing and winterizing, valve exercising, water main break data collection, sewer cleaning and jetting, catch basin cleaning, and more. Our team is also developing a solution for Saline to manage their capital projects and capital planning through interactive mapping tools that display and track important information throughout the project lifecycle.

What are some other GIS technology advancements you’re excited about?

OHM Advisors’ ongoing investments in mobile mapping technology—like our partnerships with Eos Positioning Systems and Esri–give us opportunities to work more efficiently and provide enhanced deliverables.

One example is our use of Eos high-accuracy GNSS receivers and Esri Field Map to capture precise locations and information for new infrastructure projects. Our field services team also uses the receivers to document as-built details during construction. The data enhances our record drawing deliverables and streamlines GIS data updates within our client’s databases.

I’m especially excited about the new Eos Skadi GNSS receiver with the Smart Handle. This technology will allow our field staff to collect data from a safe location using laser offsets. It’s exciting to be on the leading edge of this technology and provide more value for our teams and clients.

OHM Advisors’ ongoing investments in mobile mapping technology—like our partnerships with Eos Positioning Systems and Esri–give us opportunities to work more efficiently and provide enhanced deliverables.

Speaking of technology—you’re also helping lead OHM Advisors’ underground locating and mapping capabilities. Tell us more about that service.

OHM Advisors’ GIS, surveying, and field services groups have been working together to advance our subsurface utility engineering and locating services. Using ground-penetrating radar, pipe and cable locators, and metal detectors, we identify and map the location of underground utilities. It’s fulfilling work because it helps our engineers design better systems, protect the existing built environment, reduce change orders, and reduce risk for our clients.

What keeps you busy outside of work? 

I enjoy spending time with my wife, our two young boys, and black lab, Banjo. Right now, my oldest son is getting into sports and visiting museums, which I also enjoy. I like hiking, fishing, and hunting and look forward to introducing my kids to all of that. I grew up working for my father’s landscaping business and still enjoy doing landscaping projects. In the last year, I re-landscaped the front our house and have a lot of plans for this year. 

Click here to contact Jake for more information about GIS services at OHM Advisors.