Blog #5 - Portfolio Assignment

As part of my GIS Internship course, I was tasked with developing a professional GIS portfolio to showcase my skills, experience, and growth in the field. This portfolio represents a collection of my best work from the University of West Florida GIS Certificate Program, along with real-world applications from my professional experience.

Throughout this process, I focused on creating a clean, accessible platform that highlights a range of projects including cartographic design, spatial analysis, LiDAR processing, and geoprocessing workflows using ArcGIS Pro, ModelBuilder, and Python. Each project included in the portfolio demonstrates not only technical proficiency, but also the ability to apply GIS to real-world scenarios such as environmental analysis, infrastructure mapping, and disaster assessment.

One of the most valuable aspects of this assignment was reflecting on my progression in GIS—from early coursework to more advanced analytical and applied projects. Building the portfolio reinforced the importance of clear communication, thoughtful design, and effectively presenting technical work to a broader audience.

You can view my full GIS portfolio here: Rick's GIS Portfolio

Overall, this was a highly rewarding experience that helped solidify both my technical skills and my ability to present them in a professional and meaningful way. 

Blog Post #2 - GIS Job Search

This week we were tasked with either revisiting our initial GIS dream job or conducting a new GIS job search to check out what types of jobs are currently available.

Since I have been researching and checking GIS jobs for several years now I initially thought I wanted a job that would utilize my background in archaeology but since beginning the certificate program at UWF over time I have started to lean more towards a GIS position that is more broad. One that I could utilize the variety of the skills I have now acquired through the program at UWF and recent positions I have held since starting at UWF. As I was recently searching for jobs I came across a GIS Analyst position in my hometown of Port Orange, FL.

The position appealed to me because the job description described much of what I was looking for since it wanted someone who had a diverse background to support various city departments. Some of the essential functions included developing and maintaining web maps, applications, and interactive custom dashboards, converting various data types, querying SQL databases and communicating internal and external technical resources to resolve conflicting data issues and provide guidance on best methods to apply results derived from GIS driven data to name a few. Most of these I have experience in either from coursework or from prior positions I have held.  I think the only function I don't have much experience in is creating and maintaining ArcGIS web maps, applications and interactive custom dashboards. As far as the skills, knowledge and abilities listed I also checked most of those boxes with either coursework or prior positions I have held.

In addition to being the type of GIS job I have been searching for, the idea of potentially using GIS to help support my hometown's community efforts in various functions is very exciting to me.

Needless to say I applied for the position and interviewed for it this past Monday morning. I'm happy to say that I received an offer later that afternoon and accepted the position!!!

Links to an external site.position in my hometown of Port Orange, FL.

Blog Post #1 - GIS Internship and Professional Engagement in GIS

 

This semester I am completing my GIS Internship course as my final requirement for the GIS Graduate Certificate at UWF. I recently held a position as a Cadastral Mapper so I am using that experience for my internship and will continue to take some ESRI classes during the semester.

I have been a member of a few groups since starting my GIS journey at UWF in 2023. I have been a Friend of FLURISA since I started the program in which I have attended some webinars when available. This past year I attended the Central Florida GIS Workshop at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, FL. This is a great event filled with presentations on a variety of GIS topics, ESRI trainings, a map and app gallery, and exhibitors representing private sector companies as well as public sector organizations. This workshop is a great way to learn about a variety of GIS topics and applications as well as network with other GIS professionals. I was able to meet Amber Bloechle and Dr. John Morgan at the workshop, so that was great to connect in person!

Since I have some experience working with the Brevard County Property Appraiser as a Cadastral Mapper, I decided to join the Florida Association of Cadastral Mappers (FACM). FACM is dedicated to promoting, educating, and assisting in the development of cadastral mapping in Florida. They also offer a series of courses designed to support and educate cadastral mapping professionals.

In addition, since beginning the program in 2023 I have maintained an ESRI Professional Plus/Student user license. This has allowed me to take ESRI courses during down times and stay familiar with ArcGIS Online. Also included in the license is the ArcUser publications which are great for keeping up on the GIS industry. I highly encourage anyone in this program to take advantage of this license as the cost is minimal at $100/yr.