GEOINTeraction Colorado: Data Standards, AI Integration, and the Skills That Keep GEOINT Mission-Ready

On March 19, 2026, USGIF convened the inaugural GEOINTeraction Colorado in Colorado Springs, bringing together industry professionals, Army personnel, and intelligence experts to explore Army modernization and the evolving geospatial landscape across the Colorado Front Range.  The event was held at the Catalyst Campus in the Historic Train Depot of the old Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railroad.

The event drew a cross-section of the GEOINT ecosystem: business development professionals, software engineers, CEOs, and long-time industry practitioners alongside students and a few NGA and former NGA teammates. Several attendees joined both the Front Range Area Community (FRAC) and USGIF for the first time, reflecting continued regional growth.

Army Modernization Panel

The panel brought together Mr. Kyle Ellis of GeoAcuity, CW3 DeBlanc of the 4th ID, CW2 Prokup of the 4th ID, and Mr. J. Wasson of the Army Corps of Engineers, 4th ID. 

Data as the Central Challenge

The substance of the panel discussion was almost entirely about data, organized around three interconnected issues.

First, the sheer volume of data operators now manage has become a challenge in itself. Second, data requirements set at the national level can constrain how that data is actually used in the field. Third, and most pointedly, those requirements must account for army squad-level operations and needs, where conditions shift rapidly and decisions cannot wait for data that isn’t structured to serve them.

Balancing AI Capability with Foundational Skills

Near the close of the panel, one speaker raised a concern that carried weight in the room: expanded use of AI is eroding soldiers’ ability to perform geo-tasks manually. The example was direct — if power is cut, operators need to function without automated systems. That capability cannot be assumed. Innovation and operational readiness must advance together.

This event was organized by the USGIF Front Range Community (FRAC) of Interest, and sponsored by GEOAcuity and UrbanSky.  To receive updates on future FRAC-organized events or to contact the team, please submit your request to workinggroups@usgif.org.

Looking Ahead

Panelists expressed appreciation for USGIF’s role in facilitating collaboration, and attendees are looking forward to continuing these conversations at GEOINT Symposium 2026 in May.