The Geospatial Technology Advantage: Preparing GST Technicians and GST-enabled Graduates for Southern Illinois Business and Industry

地理空间技术（GST）优势项目是为GST技术人员和GST毕业生准备在伊利诺伊州南部的企业、工业和政府机构工作的机会。GST是一个不断发展的研究领域，它提供了在不断扩大的职业阵列中取得成功所需的技能。与地区雇主和教育工作者合作，该项目是：(1)建立GST证书和学位课程，同时利用试点测试和评估基于地理技术中心开发的地理空间技术能力模型（GTCM）的全国认可课程；(2)为卡斯卡斯基亚学院学生提供GST现场实习机会；(3)将GST纳入大学和地区高中的STEM课程；(4)针对学生、教师以及商业、行业和社区领袖开展外展活动，分享地理空间技术的信息，包括教育机会和潜在用途；(5)利用商品及服务税区域顾问委员会帮助指导项目，提供援助，加强伙伴关系和职业发展途径。该项目试点测试的课程正在促进商品及服务税社区以及更广泛领域对地理空间技术的认识和理解。这导致了一种可以被全国其他机构采用的教育方法，并为将商品及服务税纳入STEM学科提供了途径。

The Geospatial Technology (GST) Advantage project is preparing GST technicians and GST-enabled graduates for opportunities with southern Illinois businesses, industries and government entities. GST is a growing area of study that provides the skills needed for success in an ever expanding array of occupations. In conjunction with regional employers and educators, the project is: (1) establishing certificate and degree programs in GST while utilizing pilot-testing and evaluating a nationally recognized curriculum based on the Geospatial Technology Competency Model (GTCM) developed by the GeoTech Center; (2) providing GST field internship opportunities for Kaskaskia College students; (3) incorporating GST into STEM classes at the college and regional high schools; (4) conducting outreach events targeting students and teachers as well as leaders of business, industries and communities to share information about geospatial technology including educational opportunities and potential uses; and (5) utilizing a GST Regional Advisory Board to help guide the project, provide assistance and enhance partnerships and career pathways. The curriculum being pilot-tested in the project is furthering the knowledge and understanding of geospatial technology within the GST community as well as in broader fields. This is leading to an educational approach that can be adopted by other institutions nationwide and one that provides pathways for inclusion of GST into STEM disciplines.