Michael Solem|Ivan Cheung|M. Beth Schlemper
Skills in Professional Geography: An Assessment of Workforce Needs and Expectations
American Association of Geographers|Insurance Institute for Highway Safety|University of Toledo
study compares skills professional geographers needs employer organizations across major sectors us workforce following series focus groups two surveys developed explore 1 extent specific skills performed geographers different professional positions 2 value anticipated demand skills perspective employers overall respondents focus groups surveys emphasized need general skills ranging time management writing ability information management computer literacy employers also cited many geographic skills vital enhancing work professionals types organizations competency field methods ability work across disciplinary boundaries spatial thinking three skill areas characterized work geographic professionals irrespective specialty