Archives for November 21, 2011

Advanced Diploma in GIS from Vancouver Island University (ADGISA)

November 21, 2011 by gisuser

I have to give a shout-out for an advanced program in GIS being offered on Vancouver Island BC by an old work colleague of mine… enter the Advanced Diploma in GIS from Vancouver Island University (ADGISA), offered in 2 flavors, online delivery or face to face. The online GIS course begins Jan 16, 2012 and there’s still some spaces open for those interested in upgrading their skillset.

Some details of the program… VIU’s post-graduate program in GIS applications enables students to strengthen their theoretical knowledge of GIS and, at the same time, develop and hone their skills in using ArcGIS, ArcSDE, ArcIMS, ArcEngine, and ArcObjects. Topics covered include: geodatabases, spatial analysis, GPS, remote sensing, GIS programming, web map development, and project management. Both options emphasize the use of GIS as a tool in addressing or resolving real-world issues or problems. The face-to-face option includes a work-placement practicum and start in September each year; the online option is completely course-based and next starts in January 2012. Most graduates from the ADGISA program have successfully secured employment in the field of GIS within 4 months of completing the program.

See more details online at http://www.viu.ca/adgisa

How Much Do GIS Professionals Earn? Some Salary Survey Findings

November 21, 2011 by gisuser

Surveys are always pretty popular, however, it seems that salary surveys are year after year the hot topic that people love to check out. Over the year’s there’s been a number of efforts to try and get a grip on what GIS professionals make. Overall this is a pretty tough thing to nail down, mainly because GIS being the tool that it is, the requirements placed on professionals vary from job to job and thus you can easily see a huge range in salary. Then factor in the various job descriptions, geographic variances, additional duties and requirements and you’ll likely see a pretty wide range of pay scale. Nailing down exactly what a GIS Analyst earns is not simple. I’ve seen some Analyst jobs that pay $10 per hour, others paying over $80K per year! So, in an effort to help shed a little light on the topic check out the following GIS salary resources of interest:

GISjobs.com salary survey – this is a comprehensive, ongoing survey that has been online for several years. There’s a number of variables but some interesting results
GIS Chalkboard – Eric over at the GeoChalkboard conducted a survey on 2011 and has provided the results in a detailed PDF
URISA – the org typically conducts an annual survey and publishes the results for members – the results are available for purchase
MN Salary Survey – The State of MN conducted a survey and has published some interesting findings
State of Indiana – survey results available online to those interested
Payscale – this career resource offers some basic summaries and findings for GIS pros
GISlounge roundup – Caitlin has tackled the topic as well and provides some pointers

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – Yep, there’s an App For That! #MacysParade

November 21, 2011 by gisuser

This year Macy’s will once again host the annual Thanksgiving Day parade in New York, this year will mark 85 years and in keeping up with technology, there’s also an official mobile app, and yes it’s location aware, features maps, and is available for iOS and Android. The official app will give spectators important Parade information plus a comprehensive guide to New York City all for free. Using the app you can access the following: