Remote Sensing Technicians

High School

Take classes in mathematics, biology, geography, earth science, and photography. Communications and English classes will help to hone your reading and writing skills. Knowledge of software programs is essential in the remote sensing technician job so be sure to take computer science classes. Courses in artificial intelligence will also be useful since technicians are increasingly using this technology in their work. Shop classes can also be helpful with learning how to work with machinery and tools.

Postsecondary Education

An associate's degree may be sufficient for some entry-level remote sensing technician jobs. Most remote sensing technicians, however, have a bachelor's degree. Degrees may be in cartography, geography, civil engineering, natural sciences, or other related areas. Course work usually covers math, statistics, physics, chemistry, computer science, as well as English and communications. There are also classes in remote sensing and mapping systems and methods. As part of their studies, many remote sensing technicians participate in internships or cooperative educational experiences as part of their training program. This internship or co-op provide them with the chance to obtain hands-on experience.

Certification

Certificate programs in remote sensing are offered by colleges and universities. For example, Grand Valley State University (Allendale, Michigan) offers an environmental remote sensing undergraduate certificate to students who complete several electives and the following required courses: Introduction to Remote Sensing and Digital Image Processing. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Remote sensing technicians must maintain their knowledge of current and emerging remote sensing technologies and business practices. They take continuing education courses and attend workshops and conferences offered by professional associations such as the American Association of Geographers, American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, Ecological Society of America, Geospatial Information and Technology Association, IEEE Computer Society, and SPIE.