GIS Applications for Local Agencies

CALTAP is piloting a series of virtual geographic information systems (GIS) training courses that will introduce non-technical practitioners to the basic concepts, tools, and applications needed to create useful, informative, and data-rich online maps.

Today, GIS technology allows for the creation of engaging, informative, data-driven maps and narrative-driven visuals (StoryMaps). While most state and local agencies are already using GIS for planning, maintenance, engineering, and asset management (and many other applications), these courses offer a skill path for "non-GIS" professionals to learn how this technology is being used within transportation agencies as well as how the availability of license-free geotagged datasets can be used to build visual narratives that are capable of conveying complex data/geographic relationships to a non-technial audience. 

Both introductory and advanced courses are four-hour lecture/lab presentations delivered live and online by our in-house GIS expert.

The Introductory Course Includes

• An Overview of GIS Basics
• GIS Applications at LPAs/DOTs
• Guided Hands-On Learning Activities
• Create Your Own Shareable GIS StoryMap
• A Personalized Teaching Environment
• No prior experience necessary
• No software necessary

This Program is Ideal For

• Anyone involved in the public sector looking to get started learning GIS for any application including planning, maintenance, surveying, engineering, etc. (no experience or software necessary).
• Anyone looking for an exciting career skill that can be used to create informative maps and visuals that better engage stakeholders and constituents.
• Anyone working with GIS team members or departments who could improve collaboration with a better understanding of the technology.

Features & Benefits

• Easily digestible curriculum on basic, introductory GIS concepts
• Hands-on learning: leave class with your own GIS StoryMap
• Curriculum designed and presented by GIS experts
• Networking opportunities with industry leaders
• Interactive virtual learning environment

Course Learning Outcomes

• Basic GIS concepts and examples
• How to make your own basic web map product
• What GIS platforms are accessible to start using easily
• What types of GIS data are freely accessible
• GIS data collection methods
  
  

* Participants are encouraged to bring their own dataset if available; 
CSV, GeoJSON, and KML file types are support