Jane Schafer-Kramer is a Geographic Data Specialist with the California Department of Water Resources, where she leads the national hydrography data stewardship program. Her journey into GIS wasn’t exactly linear—she began her career at DWR in a clerical role and, driven by curiosity and determination, took night classes at American River College to learn GIS. In midlife she pivoted from a role as an Executive Secretary to a Research Data Analyst, processing geospatial data for the hydrologic engineers.
Jane is an active member of the geospatial community. She’s been involved with the Geospatial Professional Network (formerly URISA), served on CalGIS planning committees, and even held a term as president of the Northern California Chapter (now merged into the California Chapter). She currently serves on the board of the California Geographic Information Association (CGIA), where she co-chairs both the Community Forum and Advocacy Committee and the Ad Hoc Committee on the GIS Profession and the Practice of Surveying. She also represents DWR as a state government member of the National States Geographic Information Council.
When she’s not wrangling data or championing geospatial causes, Jane can be found in Davis, happily pulling weeds and harvesting veggies at the community garden—proof that she’s just as comfortable with dirt under her nails as she is with data on her screen.
Congratulations!! Jane. Well-earned and deserved recognition. Jane a true trail blazer in promoting GIS and Community based collaboration, networking, and seeking out GIS based solutions. As CEO for CA Tribal GIS, I appreciate all of Jane’s support for CA Native American Tribes and encouraging me to connect with the right public GIS partners to assist Tribes and Tribal communities. She also is a great volunteer who has helped with the support of the annual CA Native American Day (Capitol based event) and planning team member for the 1st CA Native American Tribal GIS Summit 2025.