Thomas Bergeron, a graduate in geographic information science (GIS) from the College of Applied and Natural Sciences (ANS), has seamlessly transitioned from an internship at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) to becoming an integral part of the ISW team.
Bergeron’s interest in international affairs started at an early age by growing up in a military family.
“I maintained an interest in following current events throughout my early years, specifically with a unique interest in underreported conflicts and the intrigue involved in foreign relations,” Bergeron said.
Bergeron found the GIS program at Louisiana Tech to be perfect for his interests in computer technology, geography, and geopolitics. He was also able to design his studies around research interests by taking classes such as geography, political science, and history in the College of Liberal Arts (COLA).
“The GIS program at Louisiana Tech prepared me greatly for the work I do now,” Bergeron said. “Dr. Michael Crosby and Dr. Irene Casas were and are excellent professors, who taught me not only the basics of using a geographic information system but also how to critically think as a geospatial analyst.”
Bergeron’s current work as a geospatial researcher on the Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) team consists of cartographic support to ISW’s geographical research teams such as the Russia team, joint ISW-CTP (Critical Threats Project) Iran/Middle East team, and China team.
“My primary tasking is to perform collection and analysis of open-source and geospatial intelligence for the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas war, and other global geographic areas of interest,” Bergeron said.
Bergeron and his colleagues have reached millions of people with their ISW mapping products that continue to be published by mainstream media outlets including The New York Times, the BBC, The Washington Post, and many more.
Dr. Michael Crosby, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry, said, “Thomas and his team are out there sourcing data and doing analysis to provide information and insights to multiple stakeholders. Being situated where they are allows them to work with multiple government groups that use the information. They’re working on history as it unfolds and contributing to its outcome.”
“I am intensely aware of the far-reaching extent of the work that I produce, though it is my highest honor to learn that the products, tools, and skillsets work in a proven manner that has saved lives, both civilian and warfighter,” Bergeron said.
Bergeron continues to look fondly on his experience at Tech and the community he formed while using University resources such as the Career Center and Counseling Services. His involvement in the Geospatial Society, Louisiana Tech Swim Club, and Phi Delta Theta fraternity also provided networking skills and community involvement that assist him with his position today.
Dr. Irene Casas, professor in the School of History and Social Sciences, spoke fondly of Bergeron’s dedication to GIS and Louisiana Tech.
“Thomas always showed interest in topics related to intelligence, strategy, conflict, and various types of organized movements,” Casas said. “He worked very hard while he was at Louisiana Tech to learn and strengthen his background in these areas through classes and his research. Here at Tech, he helped spread his love for GIS by being our GIS Ambassador and representative for everything GIS-related. We are very proud of Thomas’ accomplishments, which are just the beginning of a very successful career.”
“Louisiana Tech has long marketed that the Tech family community is overtly present on campus and is deeply involved in ensuring student wellbeing,” Bergeron said. “The Tech family welcomes you in from the first day on campus when you toss your medallion in the Lady of the Mist and cheers you on until it returns to your hand upon graduation. I can say is incredibly true and has directly contributed to my success and the success of many other graduates from Louisiana Tech.”
