At its annual strategic planning meeting in Denver, the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI)  board selected and contracted with a project manager to develop and deploy an exam component for the GIS Professional Certification by 2015. 

At its annual strategic planning meeting in Denver, the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI)  board selected and contracted with a project manager to develop and deploy an exam component for the GIS Professional Certification by 2015.

The multi-stage process to carefully explore, develop and implement a competency-based examination by 2015, reflects the conviction that portfolio-based certification augmented by such an examination has the potential to further advance the profession.

Rebecca Somers, GISP, principal with Somers-St. Claire GIS Management Consultants, has taken the lead in guiding the GISCI and the Exam Development Workgroup in the completion of this phase of the exam project including engaging a leading exam development consultant.

The board expects to make its decision regarding exam development by the first quarter of 2013, and the target date for the exam launch is the first quarter of 2015.

GISCI President, Mike Vanhook remarks: “This is a very exciting and challenging time for GISCI. Our organization has taken on significant efforts to improve the certification process and add value to the GISP. Rebecca Somers has done an exceptional job. She continues to meet our expectations with timely and quality results that will provide GISCI with the best possible outcome. We are ready to review the Exam Development Plan and to begin developing the exam.”