DEVELOPING GEOSPATIAL SCIENTISTS – USING STUDENTS AS PARTNERS IN DRONE RESEARCH

Abstract. The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook predicts geospatial careers to increase much faster than average (15%) from 2018 to 2028 with no additional on-the-job training expected. Geospatial professionals can assist in promoting these career opportunities by mentoring high school students through real-world and transferable-skill building activities. The aim is to enhance students’ awareness and stimulate their interest towards STEM education and careers, especially in geospatial data analytics. This area of study incorporates a variety of modern-day tools for analyzing and mapping the Earth. The technology used offers a radically different way in which geospatial scientist produce and use the geospatial information required to manage a large variety of communities and industries.