So why would I involve myself in the KAMP Executive Board or supporting committee? I mean really, what is in it for me?
When dealing with an already busy schedule, the thought of further committing oneself to a professional organization may just seem nothing more than taxing. While this professional organization’s aim is to improve the conditions and opportunities for GIS professionals and academics across the Commonwealth, an individual on the board stands to gain from the very programs they support as a Board member, barring any obvious conflict of interest. If you think that the scholarships or programs do not meet your needs, a great place to influence them is from the head. While this article could expound from the proverbial soapbox, its aim will remain limited to some interesting measures as it relates to volunteerism and “hireability.”
The fact of the matter is that many people seek to volunteer for organizations to expand their opportunity spectrum, by expanding professional networks, building portfolios, accruing credits that qualify for professional certification, gaining exposure to different skillsets or exercising leadership skills that are not within their current job function.
The 2016 Doilette Impact Survey: Developing Leadership Skills through Volunteerism revealed that
2506 respondents in hiring positions across 13 major metropolitan areas agreed that volunteer work improves a person’s “hireability.” The results to the left indicate respondent feedback as it relates volunteerism used on resumes and its career applicability. See the full report here.
Consider the relevant and tangible work activities that come from direct involvement in KAMP’s various operational components in support of the regional GIS industry. If this somehow seems a stretch, consider that involvement in GIS professional organizations builds healthy credits towards Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification and recertification.
In terms of Contributions to the Profession, 1 year as on officer or committee member gains 25 – 50% of the minimum contribution points for GISP certification. Granted, an individual must earn beyond the 150-point baseline for GISP certification. For an individual recertifying their GISP, this translates into 33 – 66% of the minimum Contribution to the Profession points. The GIS Certification Institute’s (GISCI) GISP point credits are displayed below.
At the end of the day, it is up to an individual to determine they have the time to devote to volunteer activity. For those who are building their career, these numbers may provide some things to consider. Is your interest peaked? KAMP will conduct elections during the upcoming 2018 Annual KAMP Conference in Bowling Green, Kentucky, October 23-25, 2018, so we encourage you to speed over to our nominations page and nominate yourself or a colleague.