A GISP is a certified Geographic Information Systems Professional who has met the minimum standards for ethical conduct and professional practice as established by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI). GISCI certification requires achievement in three areas: educational achievement, professional experience, and contributions to the profession.

GISP certification is not required for membership or participation in MAGIP yet MAGIP's Professional Development Committee as well as the Board recognizes the formal process and encourages its membership to achieve a professional development GIS certification which:

•  Allows its members to be recognized by their colleagues and peers for having demonstrated exemplary professional practice and integrity in the field

•  Establishes and maintains high standards of both professional practice and ethical conduct

•  Encourages aspiring GIS professionals to work towards certification for the purpose of professional development and advancement

•  Encourages established GIS professionals to continue to hone their professional skills and ethical performance even as GIS technology changes

MAGIP endorsed the GISP Certification in the spring of 2009.  MLIAC followed suit in 2009

To learn more about becoming a GISP and to track current and proposed certification standards reference the GIS Certification Institute GISCI  web page at:  http://www.gisci.org/