MapPros! Careers in Geospatial Technologies

Robert Godfrey

"The key factor was that I found the GIS field to be very exciting as well as fun. Working with cutting edge technology to assist people like planners, engineers, and the military in a dynamic environment can be very gratifying."

"I would advise a high school student to thoroughly research the Geography department of colleges they may have an interest in. If possible, try to meet the professor or even a student enrolled in the program. Also, check out some of the GIS software packages, many companies such as ESRI will mail a trial version of their software for free."

"GIS is expanding rapidly, so opportunities are also increasing. Most state and federal organizations utilize GIS, especially where security in the United States is at its peak. Also, commercial industry has embraced GIS."

GIS Analyst - Robert Godfrey

Field: Senior GIS Developer
Job Title: GIS
Place of Employment: Eagan, McAllister Associates, Inc

What is your current job and what does it entail?

It consists of a multitude of responsibilities that include programming custom GIS applications (ESRI software), analyzing and modifying geospatial digital data, and interacting with clients and coworkers to discuss current and future projects.

In your day-to-day activities, who are the people that you interact with regularly?

I interact with other GIS Analysts, Senior GIS Developers, Web Developers, Database Administrators, and Program Managers.

For your position, what skills do you need in geospatial technologies?

A knowledge of cartographic principles such as projections and scale; remote sensing skills for identification of features in aerial imagery; use of GIS software to perform advanced tasks such as dissolving and merging polygons or buffer intersects; and basic knowledge of how to use GIS programs to pan, zoom, and measure distances.

For your position, what skills outside of geospatial technologies are required?

Programming skills are essential in order to customize applications. I use languages like Visual Basic, VBA, and JSP. Also a basic knowledge of computers is necessary.

What was the key factor in your career decision?

The key factor was that I found the GIS field to be very exciting as well as fun. Working with cutting edge technology to assist people like planners, engineers, and the military in a dynamic environment can be very gratifying.

What do you like most about your career?

I enjoy working with new technology, working with a great team, and helping others through GIS.

What do you like least about your career?

Nothing comes to mind at the moment.

What do you do to relax?

Watch movies, build computers, work out, watch and play baseball, football, and basketball.

Who are your heroes/heroines?

Heroine: Dr. Ann Oberhauser, Chair of Geography Dept at West Virginia University
Heroes: Pat Tillman, Ted Williams, Lou Gehrig

What advice would you give a high school student who expressed an interest in pursuing a career in your field?

I would advise a high school student to thoroughly research the geography department of colleges they may have an interest in. If possible, try to meet the professor or a student enrolled in the program. Also, check out some of the GIS software packages, many companies such as ESRI will mail a trial version of their software for free. Many of these trial versions will contain a tutorial and sample data.

Are career opportunities in your field increasing or decreasing and why?

GIS is expanding rapidly, so opportunities are also increasing. Most state and federal organizations utilize GIS, especially where security in the United States is at its peak. Also, commercial industry has embraced GIS. For example, GPS systems are now standard in cell phones, and many cars rely on GPS for navigation. Another indicator is that companies like Microsoft have developed their own GIS packages.

E-mail: Robert_Godfrey@emainc.com

Salary Range: $40-60,000

Comments: Feel free to email me with any questions

Degree Major Institution

B.A.

Geography

West Virginia University