StrongerBC Future Skills Grant – GIS Skills and Mapping

The GIS Skills and Mapping program aims to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in spatial data analysis and mapping technologies. With a focus on GIS fundamentals, this six-week micro-certificate prepares learners for in-field employment and complements the courses in our Mapping with Drones program.

Designed for those with little or no prior geomatics experience, this micro-certificate provides hands-on training in open-source software like QGIS, Google Earth, and the Gaia app. Participants will learn to create custom maps, analyze spatial data, and answer complex human and environmental questions. The program is vital to industry, government and business collaborators who rely on accurate spatial data for decision-making and strategic planning. By training professionals in the latest GIS technology, companies and collaborators will have access to skilled talent who can provide valuable insights and solutions.

Spatial data analysis is increasingly important for addressing global challenges like climate change, urbanization, and infrastructure development. Participants will learn the necessary GIS skills to tackle these challenges and contribute to sustainable solutions. This program stands out by offering practical experience with widely used open-source software, making it accessible and cost-effective.

Learners will develop the confidence to visualize and quantify spatial data trends and will gain valuable skills that are applicable in a variety of fields.

Please view the program page for detailed program information. 

Please note the following important information about the StrongerBC future skills grant program:

• Funds for approved StrongerBC future skills grant programs will be charged against your StrongerBC future skills grant accounts for all program expenses, which may include program application, tuition, and/or materials.
• All program expenses are non-refundable against your StrongerBC future skills account at the withdrawal deadline for the first course in your program of study.
• Learners are responsible for registering in all required program courses. Program staff are not responsible for providing registration reminders to learners with outstanding courses.
• Learners who do not register or complete courses required for their micro-credential completion through the duration of the 2025/26 funding period will be required to pay for any outstanding program and course expenses if they choose to complete their program at a later date. Learners who do not receive a passing mark for their required program courses will not receive a micro-certificate, nor will they be eligible to receive additional StrongerBC fees to re-register in the course they did not successfully complete.
• We are unable to reimburse expenses toward textbooks or materials if purchased individually.