According to the GIS Certification Institute, "the purpose of the GIS Certification Institute is to provide those professionals who work in the field of geographic information systems with a formal process that will:

• Allow them to be recognized by their colleagues and peers for having demonstrated exemplary professional practice and integrity in the field
• Establish and maintain high standards of both professional practice and ethical conduct
• Encourage aspiring GIS professionals to work towards certification for the purpose of professional development and advancement
• Encourage established GIS professionals to continue to hone their professional skills and ethical performance even as GIS technology changes"

The GIS Certification process was initiated by the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA) a few year ago and now aims to raise the level of professionalism among those working with GIS technology. But is certification necessary to get a job? What would it mean to current professionals seeking higher position and salary? Will it ever be viewed with the same level of professional distinction as certifications required by architects or engineers? What do you think? Add your comments below.

In addition, the GISCI announced that the following officers were added to the association. Lynda Wayne, GISP (GeoMaxim, Asheville NC) was elected by the Board of Directors to serve as GISCI President. Nancy Obermeyer, GISP (Indiana State University) will serve as the association's Secretary, and Peirce Eichelberger (Chester County, PA) will serve as the GISCI Treasurer. The other members of the GISCI Board are: William Huxhold, GISP (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee); Karen Kemp (University of Redlands); Tom Tribble (North Carolina Center for Geographic Information & Analysis); and Lyna Wiggins (Rutgers University). According to the GISCI, "this announcement comes as the number of Certified GIS Professionals exceeds 400."

Professionals interested in pursuing certification can download application materials at www.gisci.org and begin preparations for submitting their qualifications for recognition as Certified GIS Professionals and earn the designation, "GISP". For more information about GISCI Certification, visit http://www.gisci.org or call (847) 824-7768.

In related news, the Enterprise for Innovative Geospatial Solutions (EIGS) announced that member company Digital Quest’s STARS Certification is a key component to support the Department of Labor’s pilot of the Geospatial Technology Apprenticeship Program (GTAP) at The University of Southern Mississippi. "GTAP is a 21st century workforce development solution for the geospatial industry. The GTAP program is filling a gap that exists in helping prepare the geospatial workforce. Completers of GTAP receive the Geospatial Specialist credential from the Department of Labor,” said Dr. Cyndi Gaudet, Associate Professor of the Workplace Learning & Performance Center at Southern Miss, who is directing the pilot project. Read more HERE.