GIS-Pro 2026

Why should a student pursue a GIS internship? And why should an organization invest the resources to host one? This session explores the compelling "why" behind GIS internships from three distinct viewpoints: a current intern, a former intern turned GIS technician, and a manager who champions emerging talent.

For emerging professionals, internships are crucial opportunities to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world spatial problem-solving, offering hands-on experience that classrooms simply can't replicate. For organizations, an internship program is a strategic investment. It provides a chance to inject fresh perspectives into workflows, tackle backlogged projects, and cultivate a reliable pipeline of tested GIS professionals.

Join us as we unpack the mutual benefits of these programs. Whether you are looking to launch your career or build your team's capacity, you will leave with actionable strategies to maximize the experience.
 Keywords: Intern, Internship, Manage, Leadership, Career, Experience

Why Intern? Why Hire? Unlocking the Mutual Value of GIS Internships
Adam Ratliff, GIS Tech II, City of Las Cruces, Las Cruces, NM - USA
Liz Parrish, MBA, GISP, Sr. Manager of Geospatial Analytics & Insights, H-E-B, Dallas, TX - USA
Ron Burns, GISP-E, GIS Data Steward Intern, Aurora Water, CO - USA