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FAQ

GISP Certification 

Doctors, lawyers, surveyors, civil engineers… What do these professions have in common?  In most states members of these occupations are required by state licensing boards to periodically renew their licenses by obtaining certification of their professional abilities. This certification is designed to protect the public by assuring that these professionals are well versed in the latest standards and procedures of their respective fields. Recertification for these professions is achieved primarily by obtaining continuing educational units, or CEU’s.

While not mandatory for GIS professionals working in Illinois, certification for GIS practitioners is available on a voluntary basis through the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI).  GISCI is an independent, non-profit, private organization that provides GIS professional certification upon the submittal and acceptance of documentation that proves that a GIS practitioner has:

• Achieved a high level of GIS related education.
• Advanced his or her professional development through continuing education, GIS conference / workshop attendance, and professional experience.
• Made substantial contributions to the GIS profession such as participating in GIS conferences and workshops, the publishing of professional papers, and active participation in GIS professional organizations.
• Demonstrated his or her understanding of a code of ethics required for their performance as a GIS professional.

The Board of Directors of GISCI themselves are highly regarded GIS professionals, holding top level  positions in organizations such as the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA), the National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC), the American Association of Geographers (AAG), and the University Consortium of Geographic Information Science (UCGIS).

Applicants certified by the GISCI are designated as GISP’s or GIS Professionals.  As of February 2010, worldwide there were 4,611 GISP’s certified by the GISCI. The majority of GISP’s are from the United States and Canada. Of the total number of GISP’s, 108 are from the State of Illinois. Out of the nearly 700 members of ILGISA, only 56 are certified as GISP’s, which indicates we have great potential in the future professional certification of our membership.

GISP certification by the GISCI is in effect for a period of five years. At the end of the five year period the GISP must recertify, again documenting their achievements in education, professional development and experience, and contributions to others.

There are many benefits to a GIS practitioner obtaining the GISP designation. A GISP not only receives accreditation for his or her past professional experience and accomplishments, but also establishes a framework for their career path for the next five years.

It is highly recommend that all members of ILGISA consider obtaining and maintaining GISP certification. The GISP designation in itself is not a means to an end, but a structure that we can utilize to further our own personal development in service to our profession and the people we serve.  For more information, visit the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI).