MoreScott Grams was recently named the first executive director of the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI). The Institute has been in operation since January 1, 2004 where Mr. Grams has been serving as the Certification Program Director. Thanks in great part to Scott's commitment and talents, the GISCI has grown quickly this first year and is now in need of a dedicated executive director.
Scott was hired by URISA in 2000 to manage its educational programs and special initiatives. One of these initiatives was to investigate the value of developing a certification program for GIS professionals. When the rough outline of today's GISCI program was proposed in 2001 Scott took over the full committee oversight and the development of the certification program. He worked with the committee, URISA and GISCI leadership to develop all aspects of the Institute. He coordinated the original Pilot Program that ensured the program would be ready for its January 2004 unveiling. He also oversaw the establishment of GISCI as a separate entity to greater support the certification program.
As the first executive director, Scott is tasked with supporting the efforts of the Board of Directors as well as the Outreach and Review Committees. He speaks on GISCI's behalf at professional meetings, workshops and industry events. He will continue to work to support GISCI's positive growth and strengthen the voice of GIS professionals in the profession and society. Under his direction GISCI exceeded its application projections and accomplished its goal of establishing itself as the primary certification mechanism for GIS professionals.
Scott graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in 1999. He earned his Master's Degree from Northwestern University in 2004. He is a member of the American Society of Association Executives and the Northwestern MSC Networking Group. He lives in Chicago, IL.
There are 634 Certified GIS Professionals (GISPs) as of
Source: GISCI, March 16, 2005
