Our Mission & History
Over Two Decades of Service to Our Community
Since our inception, the APSU GIS Center has been a stable, reliable partner for local governments and organizations. We were founded on the principle of applying academic expertise to solve real-world problems, a mission that continues to guide us today. Our history is one of evolution, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.
From Humble Beginnings to a Regional Leader
Over 25 Years of Services to our Community
Late 1990S – Early 2000s
The Early Years
Originally named the CMC Center, it was established to bring emerging geospatial technologies to the region. Our defining moment came early, assisting with damage assessment and response efforts following the devastating 1999 Clarksville tornado. This experience cemented our role as a critical community asset in times of need and set the foundation for our expertise in public safety and disaster response.
Mid 2000s – 2010s
Growth and Expansion
Our regional footprint expanded beyond Clarksville-Montgomery County. The Center became known as the APSU GIS Center.
As technology evolved, so did our capabilities. We expanded our services to support the growing infrastructure needs of our municipal partners, focusing on critical areas like stormwater and utility mapping. This era saw the formalization of our student worker program, transforming the Center into a vital hub for hands-on learning and workforce development.
2020s – Present
The Modern Era
Today, the Center is at the forefront of geospatial innovation. We have integrated advanced technologies like UAVs (drones) for high-resolution aerial mapping, Matterport scanners for creating 3D “digital twins” of facilities, and sophisticated data analytics tools like Esri’s Business Analyst. Our recent collaboration with Vanderbilt University on a LiDAR-based traffic safety project highlights our commitment to cutting-edge research and our role as a key player in regional innovation.
Service, Not Sales. Science, Not Speculation.
Our mission is fundamentally different from a commercial firm. As a research and service center within Austin Peay State University, our only objective is to provide the best possible data and analysis to support effective public governance. We are driven by a commitment to scientific integrity and the responsible stewardship of public funds. When you partner with us, you gain an unbiased ally dedicated solely to helping you achieve your community’s goals.