This content was published: November 5, 2010. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Geography Information Systems option ready to map your future
Photos and story by Kate Chester
Are you someone who spends hours looking at maps and Google Earth to better understand the world around you? If so, you may be a perfect candidate for the Geographic Information Systems option, offered at every campus and the Southeast Center.
To promote this certificate, GIS professionals along with geography instructor Christina Friedle will staff an informational booth from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.,Wednesday, Nov. 17, in the Upper CC Mall as part of National GIS Day. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions of industry experts; learn about the GIS certificate option; view a slide show of maps and GIS projects; participate in a geo-adventure, taking latitude and longitude points and searching for them using a GPS unit; and throw their names in the hat for a raffle.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics have categorized GIS related jobs as an emerging industry and one that should experience higher than average employment growth over the next 10 years. Geographers with GIS experience or knowledge have the strongest job outlook, especially with government, business, local municipalities, real estate developers, utilities, and environmental consulting.
Read more about one student who switched careers and is in the GIS option now.
For more information on the Geographic Information System option, call (971) 722-4289.