Analyst Talk - Dr. Greg Thomas – From Organized Crime to GEOINT - IALEIA

Episode: 00310 Released on March 16, 2026 Description:  In this episode of Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Dr. Greg Thomas returns to the show to discuss his journey from investigating organized crime to teaching geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) at Penn State University. Greg reflects on the early days of intelligence analysis, his work with the Pennsylvania Crime Commission and Pennsylvania State Police, and how the profession expanded dramatically after 9/11. The conversation also highlights the role of the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts (IALEIA) in shaping analyst training, standards, and professional development. Greg discusses the Foundations of Intelligence Analysis Training (FIAT), IALEIA analytic standards, and the importance of professional involvement in advancing the field. Listeners will also hear Greg’s perspective on geospatial intelligence, artificial intelligence in analysis, and why critical thinking, writing, and communication remain core skills for analysts. Greg closes by sharing career advice for analysts and emphasizing the importance of maintaining balance outside of work. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking! [Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.] Name Drops: Public Service Announcements: Dr. Eliann Carr on the Crime Analyst Census Survey Link to survey:  https://form.jotform.com/251745683433058 Related Links: Analytic Standards, 2nd edition - https://bja.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh186/files/media/document/law_enforcement_analytic_standards_04202_combined_compliant.pdf Penn State’s geospatial program - https://geospatial.psu.edu/ IALEIA Journal of Intelligence and Analysis - https://www.ialeia.org/journal_of_intelligence_and_an.php Association(s) Mentioned:  IALEIA, LEIU Vendor(s) Mentioned: Contact: [email protected], https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-thomas-b2320432/ Transcript:   https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/prnrfbvsee8mhzsg/GregThomas_transcripts.pdf Podcast Writer: Podcast Researcher: Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com. Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners. Podcast Email: [email protected]  Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com  Podcast X: @leapodcasts 00:00:17 Introducing Greg 00:03:00 Early career investigating organized crime 00:11:30 Joining the Pennsylvania State Police and analyst growth after 9/11 00:15:30 Development of the FIAT intelligence analyst training program 00:23:00 IALEIA analytic standards and professional development 00:33:00 Transition to Penn State and geospatial intelligence analysis 00:40:00 Artificial intelligence and the future of intelligence analysis 00:55:00 Career advice, privacy issues, and Words to the World