Why learn about GIS?
Why learn about GIS?
HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER SKILLSET
In 2021, a large survey[1] of > 2,000 new jobs for Geologists showed 76 % either required or at least desired proficiency in geological software. The greatest expectations from prospective employers fell on Senior-level roles (7 – 15 years' experience) where this number rose to almost 85 %.
Is GIS important for geologists?
ROUTINELY USED ACROSS THE GEOSCIENCES
As a geologist, the ability to analyse data in 2-dimensional space is a fundamental skill, and virtually all geoscientific industries use maps on a daily basis. As a result, having a thorough understanding of GIS is highly advantageous, regardless of profession, both when entering the industry as well as whilst progressing through.
Geologist & GIS Salaries
Many geoscientific jobs that require the use of GIS, either 'full time' (as a dedicated specialist) or just as a part of their every-day work, can lead to successful and high-paying career paths.
Here's what you could expect from two different career options:
Examples from the Geosciences
Academia
The scientific method relies upon the collection, presentation, analysis and evaluation of large multi-faceted datasets. Geological Researchers, regardless of their discipline, regularly use GIS to support their project work, whether that be using remote sensed data, or those collected directly from the field.
- Lithological domaining & mapping
- Remote sensing & structural analysis
- Cartography & map-making
Geotechnics
Construction and infrastructure projects are key for any nation’s development, as is completing them to the highest health and safety standards. Engineering Geologists often use GIS to compile geotechnical datasets which can underpin the safe execution of their various civil and mining engineering projects.
- Survey & drillhole management
- Ground studies & site investigations
- Construction & development permitting
Hydro
Water is one of the fundamental building-blocks of life and its responsible management is critical for a country's prosperity. Hydrogeologists will therefore utilise GIS to map productive aquifers and zones of favourable abstraction in order to ensure the sustainable exploitation of this very precious resource.
- Drainage & watershed analyses
- Aquifer & groundwater mapping
- Permeability, porosity & flow modelling
Hazards
Whilst everyone wants a safe place to live, many people across the world inhabit areas where there is known tectonic activity. Environmental Geologists use GIS in order to predict and map the potential impacts of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis, as well as supporting the organisation of humanitarian responses.
- Geohazard identification
- Hazard mapping & flow modelling
- Risk assessments & impact analyses
Resources
Civilisation as we know it today is built using the products sourced directly from the mining and extractive industries. Exploration, Resource and Mine Geologists routinely use GIS to evaluate the prospectivity of geological terrains in order to explore for and plan out the eventual extraction of hydrocarbon and mineral deposits.
- Survey & drillhole management
- Production infrastructure planning
- Extraction & environmental licensing