GIS technicians use technology to gather and analyze geographic data to create accurate maps, graphs, tables, and databases. They work in various sectors, including travel, education, government agencies, scientific organizations, and natural resource companies. GIS technology allows for the integration of data from multiple sources, making it easier to identify geographic patterns. GIS technicians can use political and cultural data to create maps and databases, and their skills can also be used by environmentalists. A four-year college degree in GIS, geography, computer science, engineering, or environmental science is typically required.
A geographic information system (GIS) technician works with maps and geographic data. It is tasked with searching, gathering, analyzing and adjusting geographic data and using it to create new maps, graphs, tables and databases. Their job involves using special programs and GIS equipment to transmit geographic data as accurately as possible. A person who becomes a GIS technician usually works to design maps for the travel or education sector. He may also find his skills in demand with government agencies, scientific organizations, natural resource companies, and even some advertising companies.
While maps can be drawn by hand or created using less advanced tools, GIS technology provides a way to digitally integrate data from multiple sources into accurate, up-to-date maps. A GIS technician uses technology to input data from various sources, creating maps in digital format and cross-referencing geographic data. With this vast amount of data available in digital format, people often find and identify geographic patterns that can be more difficult to observe if hand-drawn maps are used.
In addition to mapping physical elements, a GIS technician can use other types of data to create a database or design a map. For example, a person in this field might collect political data to use in preparing maps, and cultural information could be used for the same purpose. Their research and data collection is carried out with the aim of not only creating maps, but also helping people understand their environment. In fact, the skills of a GIS technician can even be used by environmentalists. For example, the data that a GIS technician gathers and incorporates into a map, database, or graph can help environmentalists identify locations that face certain types of pollution or regions that are home to endangered species.
A person who wants to work in this field usually graduates from high school and earns a four-year college degree. While some colleges may offer GIS programs that are globally appropriate for entering this field, an aspiring GIS technician can alternatively major in geography or computer science to prepare for this field. An individual can even begin this career with a degree in engineering or environmental science, as long as the educational program includes courses in subjects such as GIS and historical geography. Some people may also look into related internships or earn a master’s degree in preparation for a career in this field.
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