5 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Career as a Geographic Information System Specialist
Are you passionate about geography and technology? Do you enjoy using data to solve complex problems? If so, a career as a Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist might be the perfect fit for you.
GIS specialists are professionals who utilize spatial data and mapping technology to analyze and interpret information about the physical world. This field is in high demand, with industries such as environmental science, urban planning, and government agencies all seeking skilled GIS professionals. Here are five reasons why you should consider a career in GIS:
1. Opportunities for Diverse Work
As a GIS specialist, you can work in a wide variety of industries. Industries such as transportation, healthcare, and engineering are just a few examples of the many fields where GIS professionals are in high demand. Working as a GIS specialist also provides opportunities to collaborate with other professionals such as engineers, software developers, and data analysts, which can enhance your skillset and professional network.
2. High Job Demand
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for GIS specialists is growing much faster than average, with a projected 5% increase over the next ten years. This means GIS professionals have a higher chance of securing stable employment and enjoy job security in various industries.
3. Competitive Salary
Due to high demand and required expertise, GIS specialists are paid very well. The median annual salary in the U.S for a GIS specialist is $74,000, which is higher than the national average.
4. Unique Skillset
GIS is a highly specialized field that requires a unique skillset of spatial analysis, data management, and coding. A GIS specialist has knowledge in spatial technology that can solve complex challenges in natural resource management, city planning, and environmental assessment.
5. Impactful Work
GIS specialists often help facilitate and inform decisions that impact communities positively. They work with policy makers, environmental groups, and civil engineers to ensure that projects are well-designed, sustainable, and fair. By using data in the GIS field, they can visualize how human behavior and the natural environment impact each other, making them important stakeholders in the future of urban development.
In conclusion, GIS offers a diverse array of opportunities for those interested in making an impact on their local communities and beyond. With high job demand, competitive salaries, a unique skillset, and varied work opportunities, a career as a GIS specialist could be the right path for you.
