I'm a GIS Professional

"What do you do?" is probably one of the most difficult questions for those in the GIS field to answer in a concise manner without the other person's eyes glazing over, and it seems not even the professionals can agree on a simple answer, but what all seem to agree on is that GIS comprises four aspects:

• The data used to create useful information
• The software that assembles that information
• The hardware that serves as the workstation
• The people who work with all of these elements

A tongue-in-cheek way of explaining it...

Some explanations from the experts...

“In the strictest sense, a GIS is a computer system capable of assembling, storing, manipulating, and displaying geographically referenced information, i.e. data identified according to their locations. Practitioners also regard the total GIS as including operating personnel and the data that go into the system.” ~ USGS“

A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-based tool for mapping and analyzing things that exist and events that happen on earth. GIS technology integrates common database operations such as query and statistical analysis with the unique visualization and geographic analysis benefits offered by maps.” ~ ESRI

“GIS is an integrated system of computer hardware, software, and trained personnel linking topographic, demographic, utility, facility, image and other resource data that is geographically referenced.” ~ NASA 

“A geographic information system is a special case of information systems where the database consists of observations on spatially distributed features, activities or events, which are definable in space as points, lines, or areas. A geographic information system manipulates data about these points, lines, and areas to retrieve data for ad hoc queries and analyses” (Kenneth Dueker,Portland State University, 1979).


Pictures courtesy of  http://www.gislounge.com/im-gis-profession-one-word/

Worldwidelearn.com explains it in more detail:

• GIS analysts create graphic representations of land areas that can be used for analysis. Experienced analysts can earn extra money by developing computer programming skills that rival their cartography abilities. Because companies and clients prefer systems that can be used for projects many times, most analysts focus on building software that can routinely produce complex maps and reports. For more sophisticated or specialized projects, analysts develop highly detailed computer models of a territory that can be manipulated using a familiar user interface.
• A GIS manager develops, implements, and directs the GIS unit with an agency or firm. Many companies promote managers internally from the ranks of their GIS analysts. This internal recruiting produces managers that understand the unique challenges faced by the company's analysts. Based on the organization's goals, a GIS manager develops long-range plans to assure consistent growth in their department. They also oversee the short-term goals of project teams, making sure that analysts have the resources and the training to accomplish their tasks. GIS managers often set and enforce the budgets for their department, while implementing the policies and procedures of the organization. Along with basic GIS skills, the GIS manager must be able communicate effectively and have a thorough knowledge of applicable state and federal regulations.
• Cartographers do more than make maps. They also perform geographical research and compile data. They collect, analyze, and interpret spatial data. They validate latitude, longitude, elevation, and distance information by combining surveying results with sophisticated satellite images. Modern cartographers overlay other types of information onto the maps they create. For example, lawmakers may hire cartographers to map out the population density of a region in advance of congressional redistricting. Agriculture companies and government agencies request customized maps that report on key trends like land-use patterns and annual precipitation levels. Marketers and large businesses review maps that reveal demographic characteristics when selecting locations for new stores or distribution centers.
• Photogrammetrists measure and analyze aerial photographs that are used to prepare detailed maps and drawings. These specialists concentrate on parcels of land that are inaccessible, difficult, or expensive to survey by other methods. Map editors develop and verify the contents of maps, using these photographs and other references. Some states require photogrammetrists to obtain licenses as professional land surveyors.
• Land surveyors provide much of the information used to create GIS databases. They measure distances, directions, and angles between points and elevations of points, lines, and contours on, above, and below the earth's surface. Sometimes their work includes researching legal records to determine boundaries and land ownership issues. Some surveyors specialize in high-accuracy techniques such as satellite observations, geophysical prospecting for subsurface exploration, or hydrographic surveying of harbors, rivers, and other bodies of water. Surveyors with a background in computer programming work at the forefront of GIS technology, deploying state-of-the-art surveying equipment to refine the work of previous generations.
• Surveying technicians operate survey instruments and collect information in the field. They work with land surveyors and other specialists to refine raw data and return it to the laboratory. Many surveying technicians focus on a specific skill or expertise with a type of system or equipment. These specialists continue the work at their offices by using their field data to perform complex computations. They use computer-aided design tools to mock up early drafts of the material that will later be integrated into GIS platforms.
• Mapping technicians use field notes to calculate mapmaking information. They triangulate the shape of a region by rectifying the small differences between various sources of raw data. Once they manually correct any errors and address any potential discrepancies from a surveying team, these specialists draw topographical maps and verify their accuracy.
• Practicing professionals can earn extra income by teaching. As more community colleges offer classes in GIS, experienced professionals can spend a few hours per week as an instructor or adjunct faculty member. Colleges and universities also need professionals with advanced degrees to teach and perform research that will continue the expansion of GIS uses.
• Related Occupations. GIS is often used in conjunction with the work of civil engineers, architects, and landscape architects because accurate surveys are essential in land development and construction projects. 

How do you explain your chosen profession?