GIS and Data Collection Technologies

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are being used more and more in the public and private sector. In these microcredentials, you will learn about collecting and interpreting geospatial information to enhance your employability in the digital economy. You will gain the expertise needed with geospatial data analytics for a rewarding career in a variety of industries including environmental and civil engineering, health care and manufacturing. The microcredential will be of interest to you, if you’re a working professional who wants to build your knowledge and skills using GIS software for designing interactive web maps, data collection, analysis and interpretation.

Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program.

This microcredential covers fundamentals in GPS and RTK data collection to provide a holistic understanding of editing, integration and visualization methods for a complete setup. You will learn how to upgrade your skills to pursue positions such as a certified GIS Professional (GISP) or drone pilot.

Skills and Competencies:

• Create data collection solutions to distinguish tools based on the requirement of a project
• Set up account and use open and citizen science data collection platform
• Identify form-based vs map-based data collection platforms
• Use Esri-based solutions (field map, survey123 etc.) to help meet organizational data collection needs
• Document how to plan for GPS- and RTK-based data collection
• Create, edit and visualize collected data in a form that allows for presentation
• Access, manipulate and apply drone-based data to create products
• Document procedures needed for certification in drone operations (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle technology) and GISP
• Convert ideas into solutions related to data collection tools and platforms
• Present the solution with a demo in front of the class

This training directly supports the mission, vision, and values of the Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery by building the practical, tech-forward skills needed for a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. By teaching learners how to design and execute modern GPS, RTK, GIS, and drone-based data collection workflows, the microcredential develops exactly the kind of workforce capacity required for evidence-driven environmental planning, sustainable land use, and climate adaptation. Its emphasis on hands-on competencies, using Esri platforms, integrating drone imagery, planning field data collection, and presenting real project solutions, reflects C2R2’s commitment to accessible, industry-relevant upskilling that prepares people for emerging green jobs. By also offering pathways toward credentials like GISP and UAV certification, the program strengthens Canada’s talent pipeline and ensures organizations across the country have the skilled professionals needed to advance a resilient, low-carbon future.

• Introduction to GIS: Geospatial Data
• Geospatial Analysis