We’re excited to welcome Tara Schwenzfeier, LSIT to Sebago Technics as our newest Surveyor! Tara brings a unique blend of skills with degrees in Geography and Architectural Studies from UConn, plus a recent LSIT license after taking surveying classes at UMaine. Her background in GIS analysis and software engineering adds valuable expertise to our team.
Tara’s passion for surveying, combined with her love for Maine’s outdoors, makes her a perfect fit. When not exploring landscapes for work, she enjoys designing decorative maps, tackling home renovation projects, and adventuring across the state – from kayaking near Thompson’s Point to hiking in Acadia.
Join us in welcoming Tara to the Sebago Technics family as she embarks on her surveying career with us!
What inspired you to join Sebago Technics?
I have been interested in surveying since taking an introductory course at UConn seven years ago, where I had my first field experience surveying a small section of the campus. However, I was nearing graduation and not in a position to change plans at that time. Since relocating to Maine, I’ve taken online surveying classes at UMaine online and waited for the right opportunity to switch careers. I am now very excited to build a new career with Sebago Technics.
Can you share a bit about your professional background and experience?
Before Sebago Technics, I was a software developer at an aviation software company. I worked on a variety of projects from database management to user-facing iOS features. One notable project was writing a tool for managing global graphical NOTAMs (notices to air missions). This project involved creating a parser that translated written descriptions for coordinates and area into mappable geometry by using complex RegEx and SQL. I also learned a lot about aviation and took flying lessons in both fixed-wing planes and helicopters, although I’m currently only licensed to fly drones.
What are you most excited about in your new role?
I am most excited to be working outside and exploring new areas around Maine and the surrounding area.
What’s your go-to local restaurant or café in Maine?
Either St. Joe’s Cafe or Nonesuch River Brewing (both in Scarborough)
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Any hobbies or interests you’d like to share?
I’m an amateur carpenter and woodworker. I’ve been known to watch a quick YouTube video, say “I can do that in a weekend”, and then spend the next month rebuilding a bathroom. I bought a fixer-upper last year, which has consumed most of my spare time.
Do you have a favorite spot or activity to do in Maine?
My favorite place to spend a weekend is Vinalhaven. I’ll take my bike on the ferry, go swimming in the quarries, and stay the night at the Tidewater Inn.
Can you share a fun fact or something unique about yourself that colleagues might not know?
I was on the UConn sailing team and have sailed a variety of dinghies across New England. (Translation: I have experience capsizing a lot of boats in cold New England water.)
Have you explored any of Maine’s beautiful hiking trails or national parks? Which one is your favorite?
It’s hard to choose a favorite. I particularly enjoy coastal hiking like Acadia National Park and Great Wass Island, but Katahdin has the most beautiful summit.
Do you have any kids and/or pets? Tell us about them!
I have a picture of my big orange cat on my desk. His name is Sam and I could talk about him all day!
What was your first impression of the company culture at Sebago Technics?
I have only been here for a week, but everyone at Sebago is so friendly and supportive.
Have you attended any local festivals or events? Which one did you enjoy the most?
I enjoy watching concerts at Thompson’s Point from the water. It’s more relaxing, free, and you can pack your kayak with snacks!
What’s a hidden gem in Maine that you think everyone should visit?
The Wiscasset, Waterville, and Farmington Railway Museum in Alna with a two-foot narrow gauge
