Andy Nixon, a Geomatics professional at Carpenter Marty, plays a key role in supporting survey efforts from the office. He has been a part of the survey team for 23 years. Andy is the indoor counterpart to field survey work, handling everything from processing topographic data and HDS scan work to researching property corners. His expertise also extends to right-of-way work (building existing centerlines, surveys, deeds, and subdivisions and designing proposed right-of-way), as well as property title research, including deeds, easements, and judicial decrees. Along the way, he has also had the opportunity to mentor two employees under his wing.
Early Inspiration
Like many after high school, Andy wasn’t quite sure what he wanted to pursue as a career. He initially considered joining the Army or Navy but ultimately decided it wasn’t the right path for him.
Andy discovered the Survey program at Columbus State Community College, which set him on course for his career in surveying. What first drew him to the field was his desire to work outdoors. He pursued his degree while working his way through college.
Career Highlights
One of Andy’s most memorable projects came very early in his career: MOT-35-19.59. Working alongside Kevin Carpenter, this project marked Andy’s first large-scale survey job and his introduction to working with ODOT. It required long hours, including all-nighters, and involved the use of new HDS scanning technology.
“It was an introduction to doing what it takes to get the job done,” Andy recalls, reflecting on the lessons he learned and the demands of the project.
A Changing Industry
What Andy enjoys most about his career has evolved over time. While he was initially drawn to surveying for the opportunity to work outdoors, finds himself enjoying the indoor side more as he gets older.
His career has also provided opportunities to travel throughout Ohio. Early on, deed research often meant driving from courthouse to courthouse. “Now, it’s all online,” he explains, highlighting how much the industry has changed over the past 30 years.
From hand-plotted drawings to modern technology, Andy has witnessed significant advancements. “You wouldn’t know if you made a mistake until the project was built.”
Andy values the variety within surveying, both in the field and in the office. He enjoys seeing projects come full circle and emphasizes the importance of survey work in infrastructure design. “Without a good survey, you have nothing,” he says. “It makes you want to do a good job.”
Life at CM
Andy appreciates the family atmosphere at Carpenter Marty and the flexibility employees have to grow beyond a single role or title. This freedom to learn and expand your career that CM provides has taught Andy a thing or two about roadway design.
Life Outside of Work
Outside of work, Andy enjoys spending time with his two daughters, Haley (8) and Stella (6). He has a strong passion for classic Euros—whether it’s working on them, enthusiast driving, searching for parts, or attending car shows and Cars & Coffee events with his MkII GTI or e36 M3. His dream is to someday own an air cooled 911.
He also stays active through sports like beach volleyball, skiing, and snowboarding. When he’s not on the move, you can find him working on home improvement projects or relaxing at his family’s cabin in northern Michigan, often while watching Ohio State football.
