Geographic information systems (GIS) are a critical tool used across industries to analyze and visualize spatial data. Organizations utilize GIS technologies to share information, communicate data, perform analyses and solve complex problems globally. 

What GIS Specialists Do

GIS specialists use mapping and data analysis tools to turn location-based information into insights that support planning, decision-making and problem-solving across many fields. GIS specialists build and maintain GIS databases and use GIS software to analyze the spatial and non-spatial data within them. They perform essential data collection and analysis duties, including compiling and entering various types of data into GIS databases, digitizing maps, reviewing data for accuracy and currency, and performing geospatial modeling. 

Spatial analysis, data visualization and cartography skills, plus practical experience with GIS tools and programming languages like Python or ArcObjects are key. Attention to detail, along with strong communication and teamwork skills, are also essential as GIS specialists often need to work with external and internal stakeholders to incorporate and present information.

Where GIS Specialists Work

GIS specialists usually begin as technicians or analysts, and can advance to supervisor or managerial roles, such as GIS coordinator or GIS project manager. Many GIS specialists have a background in geography or other environmental science programs. 

Because GIS technologies are used by organizations around the world, GIS specialists can find jobs in a wide variety of fields. GIS skills have long been popular in fields such as urban planning, environmental sciences, public utilities, government, military and resource management, but recently GIS has emerged in fields such as agriculture, real estate, gaming and app development, public health, climate science and conservation. GIS work can also take place in the structured setting of an office or out in the field. 

Advances in geospatial AI, cloud-based GIS platforms and drone and remote sensing are expanding how organizations use geospatial data. These tools allow for real-time mapping and analytics, predictive modeling and enhanced monitoring, further driving demand for GIS capabilities across industries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California offers some of the most GIS career opportunities, along with Texas, Maryland and Colorado. While employment growth varies by specific occupation, geospatial skills continue to be integrated across planning, environmental science, utilities, public health and infrastructure roles. Lightcast projects 21.5% growth for skills in Geospatial Information and Technology, highlighting a growing trend of GIS no longer being exclusive to a particular occupation, but increasingly becoming a key skill across many different jobs.

Certifications That Can Boost Your GIS Career

Certifications such as a Certified GIS Professional (GISP) through the GIS Certification Institute or Esri Technical Certification for Esri’s ArcGIS software can enhance credibility and demonstrate applied expertise in the GIS technologies. Earning a digital badge or micro credential in GIS also demonstrates your educational achievements, competencies and commitment to ongoing professional development.

There are also several professional organizations that GIS specialists can join for networking and educational opportunities, including The Imaging & Geospatial Information Society (ASPRS), the National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC), the American Association of Geographers (AAG) and the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA).

Preparing for GIS Roles Through Continuing and Professional Education

Acquiring specialized training and education in GIS is a great way to build foundational knowledge and develop practical skills in the field. No matter where you’re at in your professional journey as a GIS practitioner, UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education’s GIS Analyst Program can help you reach the next level.

This three-course program provides hands-on experience with the ArcGIS software package and other practical skills, such as database management, ModelBuilder and cartographic design. Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll also earn a digital badge to use on your résumé and LinkedIn profile to share with employers, demonstrating your mastery of the subject area.

If you’re new or trying to break into GIS, UC Davis CPE’s classes on the Coursera platform are another great place to start learning some basic skills.

Program Details

• Complete in 3 months
• 3 online courses
• $2,300 (Pay in full and save 10%)