After working extensively in the airborne geophysical survey industry, Morrison started Geotech Ltd.– named for the earth science (geo) and the instrumentation the company would develop (tech). In 1978, the company began operations from a small office space in Markham, Ontario. Geotech was incorporated in 1981.
Early days
In the early 1980s, there were competing claims to the Canadian coastline. Geotech made an unsolicited proposal to the Canadian Coast Guard, through the Inland Waters Directorate to develop the Through Ice Bathymetry System (TIBS) to measure the depth of salt water below sea ice. Four TIBS were put to work to provide a clear map of navigable water, salt water depth and the underlying seabed off Canada’s shores.
During the development of the TIBS Geotech realized the thickness of the actual sea ice could be mapped utilizing a laser in conjunction with the electromagnetic system thus pioneering the world’s first airborne ice thickness technology. Further development of this technology was funded by the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratories in the United States.
Establishing a reputation for innovation
The early 1990s saw the launch of two important products: the Hawk fixed-wing EM and Hummingbird frequency domain electromagnetic (FDEM) systems. In 2000, Geotech built the first VTEM™ Time Domain system with a unique design, large loop, higher power and bucking coil that set it apart from other time domain systems in the industry. Designed entirely in-house, VTEM™’s portability makes it easy to ship the system around the world.
In 2001, Geotech shifted its focus from instrumentation to data collection for the commercial survey business and its growth accelerated. At the same time, the company continued to place a significant emphasis on innovation. In 2002, Geotech developed and patented the first airborne audio frequency magnetics (AFMAG) system. In 2005, this became the ZTEM™ system, the first new airborne technology introduced in many years.
VTEM™’s success led to a family of products that allow clients to customize solutions based on terrain and price. It also meant Geotech needed more space, so the company moved into its own building. Now, in addition to its corporate headquarters, Geotech has its own research, development and manufacturing centre in Aurora, Ontario. The company has plenty of room to continue advancing existing systems and creating groundbreaking new technologies.
Where we are today
Ed Morrison is just as passionate about Geotech and airborne geophysics as he was in the company’s early days. He continues to provide strategic direction as we position ourselves for the future.
Today, we operate on a global scale, benefiting from partnerships and resources around the world. Our representatives regularly attend local and regional conferences, engaging with others in our industry so we can stay at the forefront of our field.
We also welcome opportunities to strengthen our company through acquisition. In 2012, Geotech acquired Aeroquest International Limited and all of its subsidiaries – known for their ingenuity:
- Aeroquest Mapcon (Canada) – provides geospatial information about the earth’s surface using large format digital or film camera, LiDAR or satellite airborne sensors
- Geophex (US) – develops, manufactures and sells geophysical instruments and conducts customized geophysical investigations using magnetic and electromagnetic surveys
- UTS Geophysics (Australia) – provides high-standard, cost-effective ultra-high resolution magnetic, radiometric, electromagnetic, gravity and digital terrain surveys
- Aeroquest Airborne – provides products, including the AeroTEM and Impulse systems, which are now available through Geotech.
Aeroquest International Limited officially amalgamated with Geotech in 2014.