About DAS

Legacy of Innovation

From its humble beginnings in 1977, DAS has grown into a leader in aerial surveying, continually embracing new technology while staying true to the family values that have shaped its success. Bill and Mary Johnson’s entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation, and today, William and Kim Johnson continue to push the boundaries of innovation in the industry.

DAS Timeline: A Family-Owned Legacy

1953 to 1976

Built on a Legacy

Bill Johnson built a distinguished career in the aerial surveying industry. He began in 1953 as a Rodsman and Draftsman at Amman’s Aerial Survey in San Antonio before transitioning in 1955 to International Aerial, where he trained as a Stereo-Plotter Operator and Photo Lab Technician. In 1960, he joined Buce & Associates in Dallas, taking on diverse roles, including Aerial Camera Operator, and was promoted to Vice President in 1964. Along the way, Bill also earned his Private Pilot License in 1968, further enhancing his expertise in the field.

1977

DAS is Born

Bill and Mary Johnson establish DAS in a modest two-room office at Midway and LBJ in Dallas. They invest in essential surveying equipment, including a Kelsh plotter, and Bill handcrafts a light table for scribe-drafting.

1978

Beginning to Grow

DAS moves to a renovated house and hires its first Draftsman and Stereo-Plotter operator.

1979

A New HQ

The company relocates to an office on Forest Lane, where it will remain until 2016.

1980

Aerial Mapping Innovation

DAS acquires a Galileo G6 Stereo Plotter, converts the back office into a photo lab, and continues to innovate with handmade film development equipment.

1982

First Aircraft Acquired

DAS expands by purchasing a Wild BC-1 Analytical Plotter, a Cessna 206, and Wild RC8 and RC9 cameras, further enhancing its aerial surveying capabilities.

1985

First to Go Digital

DAS becomes the first private firm in Texas to transition to digital mapping with the acquisition of the KORK Digital Mapping System.

1987

Photogrammetry Certification

Bill becomes a Certified Photogrammetrist, solidifying his expertise in the industry.

1994

First to Use Softcopy Mapping

DAS again leads the way in Texas, becoming the first firm to implement Softcopy Mapping technology.

2001

A Family Legacy Continues

William and Kim Johnson take over ownership of DAS, continuing the family legacy.

2002

Data Processing Innovation

DAS invests in an aerial film single-frame scanner to further enhance its data processing capabilities.

2004

More Digital Transformation

The company expands its scanning capabilities with the purchase of a second aerial film roll scanner.

2008

Advancing Accuracy with LiDAR

DAS begins incorporating LiDAR technology into its services, offering more precise and detailed geospatial data.

2016

Positioning for Rapid Growth

DAS relocates to a new office at the north end of Addison Airport, positioning itself for further growth.

2017

Second Office Opened + First UAV

The company opens a new office in San Antonio and acquires its first UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) to expand its aerial data collection capabilities.

2018

Expanding LiDAR Capabilities

William becomes a Certified Photogrammetrist, and DAS acquires an aerial camera and LiDAR system to be flown by helicopter, further enhancing its proficiencies.

2019

liDAR Certification

William earns his Certified Mapping Scientist LiDAR certification.

2022

Thermal and Methane Sensors

DAS added both a UAV thermal sensor and a methane gas sensor expanding it remote sensing capabilities.