The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) capped off a successful inaugural year by certifying 41 new GIS professionals (GISPs) in December 2004. This gave GISCI a total of 553 for the year, which far surpassed initial estimates by the institute. The pivotal first year demanded that GISCI not only become the premier certification body for the GIS profession but also be able to meet the needs of its certified professionals and affiliated organizations.

The Board of Directors has been actively increasing industry support for the institute as two new groups, the Association of American Geographers and the National States Geographic Information Council joined the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association as GISCI member organizations. The members comprise geographic science and technology organizations that select representatives to serve on the GISCI Board of Directors. This expansion makes GISCI more inclusive and better equipped to meet the needs of the multidisciplinary GIS profession.

GISCI was also fortunate to receive endorsements from the states of North Carolina and Oregon. Each offered assistance in implementing the programs within its state and made recommendations for program enhancements. GISCI looks forward to continued dialog with these and other key employers of GIS professionals in 2005.

Lynda Wayne, president of GISCI, says of 2004, "This was a crucial year for GISCI in its effort to establish a voice for the profession. We exceeded expectations for the number of applicants, received endorsement from state GIS organizations, and have opened up GISCI to more member organizations. Most important, we continue to receive constructive feedback from GIS professionals as we strive to provide a sound and valid program."

GISCI added a new Outreach Committee aimed at spreading the word about the role GISCI and GIS professionals play in serving both the professional community and the general public. In 2005 it plans to promote the institute through an online newsletter that will tackle topics on ethics and licensure and provide profiles of current GISPs who are working in various sectors.

GISCI plans to continue its growth and involvement in the geospatial community in the next year. By the end of 2005 it expects to have more than 1,000 certified GIS professionals who will provide a much stronger voice for GIS in the marketplace.

To download application materials or for more information regarding the GISCI certification program, visit www.gisci.org or call 847-824-7768.