McKenzie's Maxwell Earns Professional Surveyor License

Austin (AJ) Maxwell of McKenzie has officially earned his Professional Surveyor License in the state of Tennessee, marking a major milestone in his professional journey. This achievement follows his successful completion of the Principles and Practice of Surveying Exam and the Tennessee State Specific Exam.

For Maxwell, earning his license represents more than a credential—it signals the next chapter in a career rooted in discipline, technical expertise and service. From fieldwork and aerial mapping to civic engagement and military leadership, Maxwell has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and community advancement.

“AJ’s journey to licensure reflects the kind of forward-thinking, service-driven leadership we strive to cultivate at LIS,” said Patrick Smith, President of L.I. Smith & Associates (LIS). “We look forward to seeing how he continues to grow and contribute to the profession.”

Previously a survey technician at LIS, Maxwell will now step into a project manager role. In this capacity, he will oversee land surveying projects from start to finish, ensuring quality deliverables, on-time performance and regulatory compliance. His leadership and coordination will be critical in guiding projects that range from boundary and topographic surveys to subdivision development.

Maxwell is also a licensed drone pilot, leveraging cutting-edge aerial technology to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of site mapping. His drone capabilities allow him to collect high-resolution imagery and real-time data, which streamlines project planning and boosts precision—especially in challenging terrain.

Outside the office, Maxwell continues to serve his country as a 1st Lieutenant (1LT) in the Tennessee Army National Guard, a promotion effective in June of 2024. He currently serves as Platoon Leader and Battery Fire Direction Officer (FDO) at Charlie Battery, Regimental Fires Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR). His military career began as a Combat Engineer and progressed through the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at the University of Tennessee at Martin, where he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in May 2022.

Maxwell has trained in multiple states including Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Tennessee, and recently completed the Field Artillery Basic Officer Leadership Course (FABOLC) from February to June 2024.

A University of Tennessee at Martin graduate, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Engineering and Technology with a concentration in Land Surveying and Geomatics and a minor in Military Science in 2022. That same year, he was honored with the Tennessee Association of Professional Surveyors (TAPS) Student of the Year Award. This prestigious award recognizes students who exhibit exceptional leadership, professionalism, and involvement at the university, chapter, and state levels.

A native of McKenzie, Maxwell is also committed to community development. He is a member of the McKenzie Regional Planning Commission, where he contributes his surveying expertise to support responsible local growth.

In addition to his professional and military service, he frequently volunteers in local classrooms—leading lectures and demonstrations to introduce students to careers in land surveying. Looking ahead, Maxwell plans to expand these outreach efforts by creating project-based learning opportunities for students in the region.

With his Professional Surveyor License now in hand, AJ Maxwell remains dedicated to advancing his skills, serving his community, and contributing to both the civilian and military sectors with excellence and integrity. LIS is a member of both the McKenzie and the Carroll County Chambers of Commerce.