Richard Schultz

Richard Schultz is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) and an Associate Research Scientist at the Prairie Research Institute's Illinois State Geological Survey. His career spans roles as a tenured faculty member, university program coordinator, associate dean, and Chief Digital Learning Officer. He created three online geospatial technology programs and led the NSF-funded National Geospatial Technology Center of Excellence.

Education: Ph.D. in Geology/Geochemistry (University of Cincinnati), M.S. in Geology (Wichita State University), and B.S. in Geology (Illinois State University).

Research focuses on geospatial education, spatial cognition, drones, climate change, and technology-enhanced geography literacy. He has secured $7.3M in grants, including NSF awards for GIS education and UAS research.

Awards include the NCGE Teaching Award (2008), ILGISA GIS Service Award (2009), and the Richard Hilton Collaboration Award (2010). He serves as ILGISA President, editorial board member for several journals, and previously chaired the AAG's Geography Education Specialty Group.

Professional licenses include FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot, Professional Geologist (AGI), and Certified GIS Professional (GISCI).