As graduation season is upon us, the questions of what to major in and which career path to take are being heavily considered by many soon-to-be graduates. We were all once in their position, which makes us reflect on our time in college, the steps we took that led us to a GIS career, and the route that brought us all to Orbis Inc.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS), allow data to be displayed, mapped, analyzed, and managed. Majors in forestry, computer science, geography, engineering, and of course, GIS, all contribute well to future GIS-related positions. When it comes to careers in GIS, the great news is that there are so many options, some of which will be further explored below:
GIS technicians are responsible for creating the actual geographic data. This can include the collection of data, its digitization, and the development of the maps. GIS specialists look at the data to analyze and evaluate it. GIS managers are tasked with coordinating both the projects, and the people involved in them. Cartographers have a more illustrative role, as they graphically design and display the data on maps. Others may opt for jobs in surveying, drafting, or public administration.
Above are only a few ways that GIS can provide a promising future career path. If you love working with data, technology, and the outdoors, then a GIS career might be the one for you. And the good news is, demand for jobs in the GIS field is only increasing. One statistic says that job growth for GIS positions is 10-29% higher than the average for all other occupations. (https://gis.usc.edu/blog/4-reasons-to-consider-gis-as-a-career/ ).
An added benefit of choosing a career in GIS is that your job enables you to make an impact. By creating visual graphic information, you allow others to see and understand their data in a different way. This information facilities decisions and can even be used to better the community through avenues such as predicting climate change patterns or highlighting crime hotspots. Regardless of which GIS job you have, it can empower you to make a difference in the life of your clients, as well as others.
From the potential job prospects, to the competitive opportunities, to the ability to promote change, there are plenty of arguments for the advantage of GIS careers.
To all the recent graduates out there, we wish you good luck in whatever path you choose, and we hope that you will take time to consider a GIS-related career or major. Take it from us, you won’t be disappointed!
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