SAN DIEGO — Black Tech Link (BTL) announced the launch of its new annual Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training program, which officially began Monday, Feb. 2, with eight adult learners participating in the inaugural cohort. The workforce development initiative prepares adult learners and career changers for high-demand careers in geospatial technology, mapping and data analytics. The inaugural cohort represents a wide range of professional backgrounds, including cybersecurity, public health, education, space technology and public policy, industries where GIS tools are increasingly essential.
Hosted in partnership with San Diego College of Continuing Education (SDCCE), the free, 16-week program provides participants with hands-on training in GIS technologies, industry-recognized certifications and career support services to help graduates transition into growing technology and public sector careers.
The program marks the realization of a vision years in the making.
“This initiative has been in development for nearly five years,” said Elizabeth Cotton-Harps, founder and executive director of Black Tech Link. “What began as an idea to increase access to technical career pathways has now become a reality. We are proud to finally bring this program to life and serve students and career changers across San Diego who are ready to build a future in GIS and geospatial technology.”
Participants receive instruction from GIS professional Nico De Paolo, who guides students through real-world applications of mapping and spatial data used in public health, environmental science, urban planning, emergency management and infrastructure development.
“Our program will equip students with the foundational skills and knowledge to utilize GIS technologies and data in the workplace,” said Nico De Paolo, instructor for Black Tech Link’s GIS program. “Our current students come from diverse sectors, and we are exploring how GIS applies across these fields while providing hands-on experience using that knowledge. In the first two weeks, students have learned to navigate the ArcGIS platform, access and vet datasets from multiple sources, and begin using that data to create informative maps. Our goal is for students to analyze and visualize geographic patterns that support their career growth, academic pursuits or entry into the GIS field.”
The program launch was made possible through collaboration with partners and administrators at SDCCE, who supported coordination, enrollment and student access.
“The launch of Black Tech Link’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Training Program at SDCCE reflects our shared commitment to expanding equitable access to high-demand workforce training,” said Dr. Tina M. King, president of SDCCE. “By creating pathways into GIS and other emerging fields, we are empowering students with the skills they need to thrive in today’s economy while strengthening the region’s talent pipeline.”
Throughout the program, participants gain experience in core technical areas, including data analysis and visualization, drone mapping and surveying, and Esri StoryMaps, while preparing for the Esri Fundamental Foundations certification exam. Students in the inaugural cohort bring experience from diverse fields, underscoring the growing demand for GIS skills across industries.
The initiative reflects Black Tech Link’s mission to expand equitable access to education, technology and economic opportunity throughout Southern California in alignment with the State Economic Blueprint and regional workforce development priorities, including participation in the California Jobs First Southern Border Coalition Regional Plan, one of 11 regional plans across the state.
Enrollment for future cohorts is expected to open later this year as Black Tech Link continues to build pathways for underserved communities into high-growth industries.
For more information, contact Elizabeth Cotton-Harps at the Black Tech Link office at blacktechlink@gmail.com.
About Black Tech Link
Black Tech Link (BTL) is a California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that focuses on the economic advancement of Black communities through technical education, workforce solutions and networking activities. Established in April 2020, BTL was created to help close the workforce gap of Black populations that has resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world rapidly progresses toward digital communication, scientific research and technological innovation, BTL is committed to equipping its audience with resources and launching platforms for members to make meaningful connections to advance their careers and businesses in STEM.
To learn more about Black Tech Link and the programs they offer, visit blacktechlink.org.