The evolution of field work

While making my not too long, but often quiet journey to my site I reflected on how similar this experience is compared to trips my dad would make to a site in Tonopah, Nevada. There are many similarities: long drives, hot weather, long days, and many nights in hotels. There is one major difference: connectivity. The world has changed so much since the early 80s and it is when I’m in a remote location that I appreciate the change the most. Today I have a GPS to navigate me to my hotel and site. Today I have a cell phone to talk to people as I drive. Today I have a satellite radio system to listen if I lose the terrestrial radio signal. Today I have my laptop and wireless adapter to bring my office with me wherever I go. Today I have a digital camera to instantly show coworkers what the work looks like and they can mark up my photos with changes that we can do the next day. Today I have video chat (though I haven’t used it) to talk with the HyWy if I wanted. If anything my trip is a lot more cushy than my dad’s. I certainly have a newfound respect for his trips to Tonopah, Nevada.