Esri Young Professionals Network Blog

Curious about kickstarting your GIS career with a strong foundation? The GIS Certification Institute’s (GISCI) new PreGISP program is designed to guide aspiring professionals through the essential steps toward certification and success in the geospatial industry.

In this article, we explore how PreGISP can help you build your skills, connect with mentors, and chart a clear path to becoming a certified GIS professional. Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or transitioning into GIS, this program could be your next big move.

My name is Duke Boateng, I’m a senior at Charles Herbert Flowers High School in Springdale, Maryland. This fall (in 2025), I’ll be starting my college journey at the University of Maryland, College Park, majoring in Information Science with a minor in Geographic Information Science. This blog post highlights pivotal opportunities that contributed to beginning my GIS academic journey and how it’s never too early to start getting involved.

This spring, I attended the 2025 Esri Washington, DC Open House—a dynamic event where students, early-career professionals, and GIS experts came together for a full day of networking, innovation, and hands-on learning. Whether you're new to GIS, a grad student knee-deep in research, or carving your own path in the geospatial world, this event offered real-world tools, fresh insights, and connections that matter. Here's a glimpse into the experience and why you should keep this event on your radar.

School’s out for summer! Don't let that stop your GIS journey—add GIS learning to your summer adventures. Esri Academy has great options for you, whether you want a quick watch or some more ArcGIS practice. Read this blog to learn about easy training options for you this summer as a student AND up and coming GIS professional.

Imagine watching the news and seeing the software that you sold being used to relay important information!  This is something that I can personally say that I have experienced, and it gives me so much pride working at Esri on the Inside Sales team.

My name is Lucy Castro, and I am the Sales Manager for the Inside Sales team at Esri and in this post I will highlight what it's like to be an Inside Sales Representative and skills you need to succeed.

Whether you're still in the reserves, recently separated, or shifting directions after years of service, Esri Training offers flexible options to help you transition into a career where your skills continue to make a difference.

Are you a student or an emerging GIS professional looking to make a real-world impact? Want to dive into a field brimming with opportunities and contribute to a more sustainable future?

Then buckle up, because the intersection of GIS (Geographic Information System) and Agriculture is where the action is! Forget abstract concepts – we're diving deep into the practical workflows and applications that are revolutionizing how we grow our food

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What starts as a high school elective sometimes turns into a lifelong passion. For Becky Schneider, one early introduction to GIS sparked an unexpected journey into the world of lidar, remote sensing, and federal geospatial programs. Now leading federal aerial initiatives, Becky reflects on how a love for geography - and a few bold career moves - led to meaningful work at the intersection of data, technology, and people.

Curious about where a career in geospatial science can take you? Whether you're just starting out, exploring lidar and photogrammetry, or considering a leap into the public or private sector, Becky's story offers inspiration, insight, and advice for finding your place in this fast-evolving field.

Ever wonder what kinds of community events Geospatial Scientists want to see? Well, look no further than your imagination! Events are key components in networking and a break in a busy day. Here is how I, a graduate student, fostering community with my University and the greater GIS Community.

Sarah Zimmer shares her journey as a GIS professional, specifically as a Solution Engineer at Esri, focusing on the AEC industry. She discusses her passion for environmental science, education, internships, and the skills necessary for success in the field.