WGI Unleashed Podcast: Jill Mathison, Geospatial Administrator

In the final episode of 2025, the WGI Unleashed Podcast heads to West Palm Beach as hosts Dan and Katie sit down with Jill Mathison, a long-time member of WGI’s Geospatial team! Jill’s story is one of persistence, adaptability, and wholehearted commitment. From her early days growing up on Long Island to helping shape WGI through years of growth and transformation, Jill’s journey reflects what it truly means to build a career with intention.

From Long Island to South Florida

Born in New York and raised on Long Island, Jill grew up surrounded by creativity and culture. Thanks to a mother who loved the arts, childhood trips into Manhattan included Broadway shows, Radio City Music Hall, and unforgettable memories like watching Herbie the Love Bug perform high above the audience.

At age 11, Jill and her family relocated to South Florida, where her parents opened their own automotive business. While leaving home was bittersweet, the move sparked Jill’s excitement for new opportunities and fresh starts, a theme that would follow her throughout her career.

Finding Her Path Through Business

Like many great career stories, Jill’s path was anything but linear. She initially explored computer science before realizing it was not quite the right fit. A switch to business management at Broward Community College and later Florida Atlantic University opened the door to a wide range of opportunities.

Over the years, Jill worked across insurance, direct response marketing, and construction. She even spent 17 years with an electrical contractor, growing from administrative support to project management and eventually purchasing management. Along the way, she built strong relationships, learned the ins and outs of operations, and picked up skills that would later become a huge asset at WGI.

A Bold Move That Led Back Home

In 2010, during a tough job market, Jill decided to take a proactive approach. After submitting her resume to WGI, she picked up the phone and followed up directly. That call led to her first role with the firm. While the position started as temporary, Jill made it clear she was invested.

When a permanent opportunity opened up later, she returned and this time, she was here to stay.

Since then, Jill has seen WGI grow from a small firm with manual timesheets and filing cabinets into the dynamic, multidisciplinary company it is today. She has been part of the journey every step of the way.

Growing With WGI

Jill’s role has evolved right alongside the company. What started with administrative support expanded into fleet coordination, safety initiatives, and operational leadership within the Geospatial group.

She has supported major projects like the Brightline High-Speed Rail Project and I-595 Expansion in Ft Lauderdale, helping teams navigate complex logistics and field operations. One area she is especially passionate about is safety. From early involvement to today’s robust programs, Jill takes pride in helping create a culture where associates look out for one another and speak up when it matters.

Life Outside the Office

Outside of work, Jill’s life is just as full. She is a proud mom, stepmom, and self-described caretaker of a “zoo,” including rescue dogs, a cat, and even red-footed tortoises. When she is not managing her household menagerie, Jill enjoys staying active through karate, a hobby she shares with her daughter, as well as dancing, shopping, and spending time with friends and family.

Advice for the Next Generation

When asked what advice she would give to those just starting their careers, Jill’s answer is simple and powerful: always give your best. Showing up fully, staying responsive, and committing to excellence are principles she has lived by throughout her career and ones that continue to define her impact at WGI.

This episode is a reminder that meaningful careers are built step by step, shaped by persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to grow alongside the people and organizations you believe in.

This is one you don’t want to miss! So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!

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