Dave Timogan

• Year of graduation: 2024
• Current job title: GIS Technician
• Current employer: Affinity Water
• Industry sector: Water

I decided to study a degree in Geography after my A-levels as I enjoyed the subject whilst at college. Also, I have an interest in the environment and climate change, and the impact we can have on it.

The aspects of the course I enjoyed the most were the modules that involved using geographic information systems (GIS). I love using different types of software, regardless of what its function is, and getting to use GIS in one of the first modules helped me understand how this software is applicable to nearly every industry and how easy it is to use. It’s also an excellent tool for spatial analysis and can tie into data presentation using other pieces of software such as R Studio or automating workflows using Python. This brought together my personal interests that I can also apply in the real world.

Studying at UON helped both my career and personal development. The lecturers would always provide support when asked and the occasional one-on-one meetings with them helped outline my future goals so that I knew what I needed to work on, instead of just completing things for the sake of finishing them.

The knowledge and understanding gained on my degree that’s most useful in my current role is GIS, as that’s what my role is all about. Developing skills in time management has also been extremely useful as I need to dedicate some time every day to work on certain workstreams that I’m in charge of for the GIS team. My proficiency when using Microsoft applications also developed while I was studying, which has helped with data management, as most businesses use the Microsoft suite for work.

I honestly didn’t think I’d be in the position I am now. From basic digitising and spatial analysis in GIS, to managing an entire database of water assets across different regions of the UK, securing my first full-time job has allowed my career to take a huge jump. I’m only two months into the role, but I’m still learning things every day. I’d expected myself to completely understand what my role was in the GIS team within a few weeks, but that’s not the case. My colleagues have been supporting me throughout my time in the business which has allowed me to take my time to learn new things.

Aside from my studies, I participated in futsal and badminton sessions with friends, playing for fun. This helped me to build relationships with other students that I most likely wouldn’t have interacted with if not for these open sessions. Although it didn’t enhance my career prospects directly, it helped show me the different paths my career could take if things didn’t go to plan.

The advice I’d give to undergraduates interested in this career path would be that finding a role in GIS is extremely hard, so try to get as much work experience (whether that’s through personal projects or placements) as possible and be open to the opportunities that are handed to you. The University of Northampton provides a very supportive community.