Abstract
The Dawn of the Virginia Golden Age of Geospatial Technology.
Track: User Presentations - Teaching
Authors: David Webb, John McGee, Chris Carter
Virginia is in the dawn of the Golden Age of Geospatial Technology. All the factors needed for success are coming together to support a rapid expansion of geospatial education. Internally, there is increased demand for geospatial technicians in the populated eastern region, a growing community college educator community, increased course offerings, new certificates/degrees, increased high school dual enrollment opportunities new transfer opportunities to senior institutions, increased distance learning offerings and an industry-based mentoring effort. This presentation will provide an overview of selected national and statewide initiatives and other trends that are facilitating Virginia's successful efforts to develop GST academic pathways and opportunities. These opportunities include: workforce development opportunities for educators, leveraging resources and expertise from the National GeoTech center. Faculty development opportunities, including EGTEVCC, iGETT, and other NSF-ATE funded programs enabling us to push the boundaries of what is instructed at the community college level. The journey begins!