What are the best GPS and GIS training and education resources for military personnel?

1 Basic GPS and GIS Concepts

Before diving into the specific resources, you should have a solid understanding of the basic concepts of GPS and GIS. GPS stands for Global Positioning System, which is a network of satellites that provide accurate location and time information to GPS receivers on Earth. GIS stands for Geographic Information System, which is a system that integrates, stores, analyzes, and displays geographic data in various formats, such as maps, charts, and models. GPS and GIS can work together to provide spatial information and analysis for various applications, such as navigation, terrain analysis, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

4 Workshops and Webinars

Military personnel can learn GPS and GIS skills by attending workshops and webinars. These interactive and hands-on learning experiences provide opportunities to network and exchange ideas with other military professionals and experts. For example, the GPS Directorate organizes the Military GPS User Equipment Workshop, the Military Operations Research Society offers a Geospatial Analysis Workshop, ESRI hosts the Military and Government Summit, and Geospatial World runs the Military Geospatial Technology Webinar Series. These workshops and webinars will help you stay informed of the latest developments in GPS and GIS, as well as gain insights from real-world scenarios.

5 Certifications and Degrees

A fourth way to learn GPS and GIS skills is to pursue certifications and degrees that are relevant for military personnel. Such certifications and degrees can demonstrate proficiency and credibility in GPS and GIS, as well as open the door to career prospects and opportunities. Examples include the Certified GIS Professional by GIS Certification Institute, the Professional Land Surveyor by National Society of Professional Surveyors, the Geospatial Intelligence Certificate by Penn State World Campus, and the Master of Science in Geospatial Intelligence by Johns Hopkins University. These certifications and degrees will provide advanced and specialized knowledge in GPS and GIS, as well as prepare you for leadership and management roles in the military geospatial domain.

6 Peer Learning and Mentoring

Engaging in peer learning and mentoring with other military personnel is a fifth way to learn GPS and GIS skills. This can provide you with valuable feedback, support, and guidance from colleagues and seniors who have more experience. You can also share your own insights and challenges, and learn from their perspectives and solutions. To do this, you can join online communities and forums like Military GIS and Military Geospatial Technology, participate in local or regional chapters and events such as Military Open Source Software and Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, or seek a mentor or mentee through formal or informal programs like MentorNet or Mentor Military. Through these activities, you will build your network and confidence in GPS and GIS, as well as foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement in the military.