A technician who works with maps and geographic data is known as a geographic information system (GIS) technician. He is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and adjusting geographic data in order to create new maps, graphs, charts, and databases. His job entails using specialized software and GIS equipment to convey geographic data as precisely as possible. A GIS technician’s job typically entails creating maps for the travel or education industries. Government agencies, science organizations, natural resource companies, and even some advertising firms may be interested in his services.
While maps can be drawn by hand or created with less-advanced tools, GIS technology allows data from a variety of sources to be digitally integrated into up-to-date, accurate maps. A GIS technician uses technology to enter data from a variety of sources, create digital maps, and cross-reference geographic data. People can often locate and identify geographical patterns that would be difficult to notice if hand-drawn maps were used, thanks to the vast amount of data available in digital form.
A GIS technician may use other types of data to create a database or design a map in addition to mapping physical elements. A person in this field, for example, might collect political data for use in map preparation, and cultural data might be used in the same way. His or her research and data collection are aimed at not only creating maps, but also assisting people in better understanding the environment. Environmentalists may even employ the services of a GIS technician. For example, the information gathered by a GIS technician and incorporated into a map, database, or chart may aid environmentalists in identifying polluted areas or regions that are home to endangered species.
A person who wishes to work in this field typically completes high school and then pursues a four-year college education. While some colleges may offer GIS programs that are suitable for entering this field, an aspiring GIS technician can also prepare for this field by earning a degree in geography or computer science. If the educational program includes coursework in subjects like GIS and historical geography, an individual can get started in this career with a degree in engineering or environmental science. In order to prepare for a career in this field, some people may pursue related internships or earn master’s degrees.