Geospatial UK: linking Scotland to a geospatial future

Abstract

The geospatial industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the United Kingdom, and Scotland in particular is looking to leverage this boom in order to become a major geospatial hub within Europe. However, the majority of businesses in this sector report issues with both hiring and retaining adequate numbers of geospatial professionals to complete their work, creating a skills gap or shortage. Effort must be made to not only increase the number of youth who are choosing careers in the geospatial industry, but also to diversify the interests and careers of geospatial professionals. The best way to accomplish this is to incorporate geospatial skills, concepts, and data throughout Scottish secondary education, as well as market geospatial careers directly to students. The Geospatial UK website has been identified as a potential resource for students, teachers of all subjects, and careers counsellors to gain a deeper understanding of the role that geospatial plays in our lives, and the different pathways for entering the industry. Four market research style surveys were sent out to the following groups: students, Geography teachers, non-geography teachers, and careers counsellors. Responses to the surveys, as well as a review of relevant literature, informed the changes and alterations made to the site, including adding further academic resources and showcasing the diverse range of geospatial careers. Based on the survey results, additional outreach is recommended for non-geography teachers and careers counsellors to overcome knowledge gaps, and further updates to the site are proposed.