October, 2011– On October 18, 2011, the Texas Skill Standards Board (TSSB) extended its recognition of the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technician Skill Standards.  The GIS Technician occupation combines the functions of mapping science and surveying into a broader field concerned with the collection and analysis of geographic data for the purpose of creating maps, charts, tables, and reports.

TSSB policy requires that skill standards be reviewed and, if necessary, updated every five years at a minimum. These skill standards were originally developed and validated in 2007 by a statewide panel of subject matter experts that included representation from Texas private industry, education, and state government. The development project was facilitated by Del Mar College. Since the original development project, Del Mar College has become the host site of the GeoTech Center, an Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Center funded by the National Science Foundation.  ATE Centers build collaborations with industry and other educators to develop educational materials, provide professional development and improve technological education programs at the community college level. 

The GeoTech Center reviewed the skill standards and requested, on behalf of its partner employers, that the TSSB extend its recognition based on the standards’ ongoing validity and relevance and use in curriculum.