The future of geospatial depends on the people who develop, apply and maintain its technologies. Understanding how that workforce is changing is essential for organisations investing in skills, education and growth.

The Global Geospatial Workforce, from the World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC), examines the scale and composition of the workforce, the pathways supplying new talent, and the implications of artificial intelligence and changing industry needs.

Bringing together workforce estimates, survey findings and publicly available evidence, the report identifies priorities for employers, academia, governments and professional organisations.

Inside the report

•⁠  ⁠Workforce estimates and future scenarios exploring the scale and direction of geospatial employment.

•⁠  Education and talent supply examining academic provision and pathways into the profession.

•⁠  Industry perspectives on recruitment, skills needs and workforce development.

•⁠  AI and workforce change considering how technologies may reshape roles and capabilities.

•⁠  Diversity and participation examining access and representation within the workforce.

•⁠  Recommendations for action to strengthen collaboration, develop skills and improve workforce planning.

Who the report is for

The report supports industry leaders making workforce decisions, educators developing curricula and partnerships, policymakers investing in skills, and professionals seeking to understand the sector’s changing needs.

Its findings provide a basis for informed discussion and coordinated action. Estimates and projections should be read alongside the definitions, assumptions and limitations set out in the report’s evidence and methodology note.