Central Wyoming College’s Geospatial Science Program prepares students for high-tech, high-demand careers

Lander, Wyo — Explore a future filled with exciting technology and hands-on learning through Central Wyoming College’s Geospatial Information Science and Technology (GIST) program.

This innovative, hands-on program equips students with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in some of today’s most exciting fields—ranging from natural resource management to urban planning, and even tech development.

“Our GIST program is designed to be a game-changer for students,” says Dr. Brad Tyndall, President of Central Wyoming College (CWC). “Not only do we provide cutting-edge technology and golden ticket skills, but we also foster real-world problem solving through collaborations with industry leaders. This is an education that sets students on a path toward exciting, high-demand careers.”

Central Wyoming College’s GIST program is more than just maps—it’s about solving complex, real-world problems using satellite imagery, 3D mapping, and advanced data analysis. 

Whether prospective students are interested in tracking wildlife populations, managing urban growth, or improving response strategies for natural disasters, CWC’s GIST program gives people high-tech skills employers are looking for.

Cutting-Edge Skills and Credentials
Students in the GIST program can pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree or select from two specialized GIS certificates. They will learn to harness the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and WebGIS skills. 

Students also gain hands-on experience in cartography, fieldwork, and the use of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones.

Some of the key courses offered include:

• Cartography
• Remote Sensing
• Intro to GIS
• GPS for GIS
• Research Expeditions

Through these programs, graduates of CWC’s GIST programs will be prepared for in-demand careers across a variety of industries, including:

• Natural Resource Management
• Public Safety
• Urban Planning
• Oil & Gas Exploration
• Data Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Health Services      
• Archaeology
• Government
• Tech & Software Development

“Our students don’t just learn from textbooks—they go out into the field and apply their knowledge. Whether it’s mapping wildlife corridors, mountain bike trails, or local restaurants, our graduates are ready to hit the ground running,” says Mara Gans, Central Wyoming College GIS instructor.

A Pathway to High-Demand Careers
Geospatial mapping is one of the fastest-growing fields in today’s job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in this field, such as cartographers and GIS technicians, are in high demand, with competitive salaries starting at $50,000 to $100,000 depending on the sector. 

“GIST jobs are undoubtedly on the rise in Wyoming,” says Jacki Klancher, Director of Research and Innovation, and Principal Investigator on the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education GIST program, GEOBridges. “Companies are seeking increasingly advanced GIST skills to address their needs for geospatial data analysis, online dashboards, and data management.”

 “In addition to advanced data analysis; however, GIST skills are also in high demand for environmental and recreation field work,” adds Klancher. “Myriad land management agencies including the Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, the US Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management require entry-level geospatial competency for a number of their technician positions. Using GIST, field techs for these agencies collect a wide assortment of data using Global Positioning System-enabled technologies and create online maps that can be updated in real-time. Our goal is to provide paid internships to as many of our students as we can so they can apply their skills to relevant field projects.”

With an Associate of Applied Science degree or a GIS certificate from CWC, graduates are prepared to enter the workforce immediately or transfer to a four-year university.

Real-World Experience Through Local Partnerships
One of the most exciting aspects of the GIST program at Central Wyoming College is its collaboration with local, state, and federal organizations. Students gain hands-on experience in projects like mapping public lands or water quality monitoring, giving them a competitive edge in the job market. The program’s partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, among others, enables students to apply classroom skills in real-world settings. 

Opportunities for Fremont County Residents 
For those who call Fremont County home, the (GIST) program is a chance to build a meaningful, high-paying career without leaving the community.

With the flexibility of online courses and hands-on fieldwork, you can learn cutting-edge skills while staying rooted in the place you love. 

Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking to pivot careers, this program offers pathways to local jobs in everything from natural resource management to city planning.

Through partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service and other local agencies, GIST students get to apply their knowledge right here in Fremont County. 

Imagine contributing to projects that protect natural resources in your own backyard. 

With local industries like mining and energy shifting, the GIST program provides a perfect way to re-skill and find stability in fields that are growing. The training Central Wyoming College students receive is not just relevant to Fremont County—it’s essential to the future of the community.

“Our GIST program offers a great opportunity for people to learn new skills and move into something that’s not only well-paying but also has a solid future,” Gans says. “Employers are looking for people with these skills, and this program can open doors to those new opportunities.”

Central Wyoming College’s students learn how to use a variety of GIS software tools and programs, including programs built by Esri– the world’s leading supplier of GIS software and web GIS platforms. 

Enroll Today
CWC’s GIST program is currently accepting applications. Classes start Monday, Sept 23. Students can enroll in person at the stunning Alpine Science Institute in Lander or take advantage of flexible online course options. This is an opportunity to turn your passion for technology, science, and the environment into a high-demand career. Apply today at www.cwc.edu. or contact Central Wyoming College’s Lander success coach at 307-855-2329 for more information. Learn more at https://www.cwc.edu/programs/outdoorandenvironment/gist/

Central Wyoming College’s recipe for educational success in this program is attributed in good part to the support from the University of Wyoming’s EPSCoR Wy-ACT program, which funds field-based GIST research in the Wind River Range; the NASA Space Grant Consortium, which provides field and student support for undergraduate research; and the Rocky Mountain Alliance for Minority Participation, which supports students from the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. Central Wyoming College also relies on the input and support, from a key partner, the United States Forest Service.