When it comes to championing GIS, geography, and spatial thinking, Joseph Kerski is a name that resonates across the globe. With over 30 years of experience spanning government, academia, nonprofits, and industry, Joseph has been a driving force in making geospatial technologies accessible and impactful.
A Journey Dedicated to Geography and GIS
Joseph’s career is a testament to his unwavering passion for geography and education. Currently, as Education Manager at Esri, Joseph supports educators worldwide, develops innovative curricula, and fosters partnerships to integrate GIS into learning environments at all levels.
His extensive experience includes roles at:
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) – Promoting science education and GIS adoption.
- NOAA and the U.S. Census Bureau – Contributing to cartography and geographic programs.
- Universities like the University of Denver, Penn State, and Minnesota Duluth – Teaching GIS and spatial thinking.
Joseph’s ability to connect industry, academia, and government has allowed him to influence how GIS is taught and applied worldwide.
An Educator and Thought Leader
Joseph’s impact on education is unparalleled. He has created and taught countless GIS courses, developed teaching resources, and mentored educators and students globally. Whether in person, online, or through his writings, Joseph inspires people to explore the power of spatial data.
His curriculum development and teaching focus on practical applications, helping learners of all levels—from school students to professionals—understand how GIS can solve real-world problems.
Joseph’s dedication shines through in his collaborations with organizations like the Colorado Geographic Alliance, where he advocates for geographic literacy and spatial thinking in education.
A Prolific Author and Speaker
Joseph is the author of several influential books, including:
- The GIS Guide to Public Domain Data
- International Perspectives on Teaching and Learning with GIS
- Spatial Mathematics
His work spans topics like geospatial technologies, public domain data, and education. Joseph is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his insights on GIS and geography at conferences, classrooms, and online platforms.
Beyond books, Joseph engages with the GIS community through his blog, spatialreserves, and his website josephkerski.com, where he promotes thought leadership and spatial awareness.
Awards and Recognition
Joseph’s contributions to the field have earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Special Achievement in GIS
- Nepris Trailblazer Award
- Lifetime Achievement Awards
These honors reflect his exceptional ability to advance geographic education and empower others through GIS.
Why Joseph Kerski Deserves Celebration
Joseph Kerski is more than a GIS educator; he’s a lifelong learner, mentor, and visionary. His mission to expand spatial thinking has impacted thousands of educators, students, and professionals worldwide. Through his teaching, writing, and advocacy, Joseph has made GIS not just a tool but a way of understanding and solving global challenges.
Thank you, Joseph, for your unwavering commitment to geographic education and for inspiring us to see the world through a spatial lens 🌍. Your work has created a ripple effect that will benefit generations to come.
