GOSHEN, Ind. — A citywide effort to modernize data, mapping and technology systems earned Goshen international recognition through a major Goshen GIS award.
Esri, a global leader in geographic information systems technology, selected Goshen for its Special Achievement in GIS Award. The award places Goshen among a select group of organizations worldwide recognized for leadership and innovation in geographic information systems technology.
The award will be presented during the Esri User Conference in July in San Diego. It’s one of the world’s largest gatherings for GIS professionals and technology leaders.
Former GIS Coordinator Mattie Lehman played a leading role in building Goshen’s award-winning program. Under the leadership of Director of Public Works & Utilities Dustin Sailor, Lehman expanded the GIS system from a small Engineering resource into a citywide platform used by nearly 100 staff contributors.
Goshen GIS award highlights AI and data innovation
Her work focused on creating a reliable “single source of truth” for City data. That effort improved access to accurate information for both staff and residents while strengthening long-term data governance.
“I am proud of the program our team has built,” Lehman said. “We would not be receiving this recognition without the willingness of our field teams to try something new and the overwhelming support of our Departmental leadership.”
The GIS framework now supports emerging artificial intelligence tools designed to answer questions about City services, development regulations and infrastructure. The City’s approach also earned statewide recognition through the Sagamore Institute’s inaugural Goldsmith Prize for AI preparedness.
Lehman recently became Goshen’s first Director of Innovation and Technology, overseeing GIS, asset management and enterprise IT systems. City leaders credit her vision and leadership for helping position Goshen at the forefront of local government innovation.
The City’s approach also earned statewide recognition through the Sagamore Institute’s inaugural Goldsmith Prize for innovation in local government.