Apprenticeship Work Activities for Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

Apprenticeship Work Activities for Cartographers and Photogrammetrists play a vital role in creating accurate, detailed maps that serve various purposes, from urban planning to navigation.

Apprenticeships in this field provide aspiring professionals with the hands-on experience needed to master the technical and analytical skills essential for success.

This guide delves into the apprenticeship work activities that define this occupation, offering insights into the tasks and techniques that apprentices learn to shape their expertise.

Gathering Physical Survey Data

One of the foundational tasks for cartographers and photogrammetrists is collecting physical survey data. Apprentices are trained to:

• Retrieve data from field surveys conducted by other professionals.
• Use precise instruments to measure land features, such as elevation, contours, and boundaries.
• Compile essential details to ensure the accuracy of the maps they create.

This activity emphasizes understanding geographic locations and leveraging tools to acquire reliable data for mapping.

Compiling Data for Map Preparation

Apprentices in this field work extensively with data required to prepare maps, such as:

• Aerial photographs that provide a bird’s-eye view of terrain.
• Survey notes, reports, and previously created maps.
• Records that detail historical and current geographical information.

Through this process, apprentices learn to organize and interpret raw data to create comprehensive maps.

Studying Legal Records for Boundary Establishment

Determining boundaries is another critical task. Apprentices analyze legal records to:

• Define property lines, whether local, national, or international.
• Understand regulations and agreements that influence boundary designations.

This training highlights the importance of accuracy and adherence to legal specifications in mapping.

Creating Maps Using Specialized Techniques

Apprentices use advanced tools and methodologies to create maps. These include:

• Employing stereoplotting apparatus and drafting instruments for delineating aerial photographic details like hydrography and topography.
• Preparing and revising maps, charts, and three-dimensional terrain models using computer graphics equipment.

Such activities teach apprentices the intricacies of modern map creation while fostering their attention to detail.

Revising Existing Maps and Charts

Updating maps is a key responsibility, and apprentices gain expertise in:

• Identifying inaccuracies or outdated information.
• Making necessary corrections and adjustments to maintain reliability.

This work ensures maps remain current and practical for various applications.

Determining Map Content and Layout Specifications

Apprentices learn to establish guidelines for map creation by:

• Deciding on the map’s scale, projection, colors, and layout.
• Overseeing the production process to ensure these specifications are followed meticulously.

This activity builds apprentices’ skills in planning and quality control.

Inspecting Finished Products for Accuracy

Inspecting maps and charts is an essential part of the apprenticeship. Apprentices are tasked with:

• Examining final compositions to ensure completeness and precision.
• Detecting and correcting any flaws to produce reliable final products.

This instills a sense of accountability and an eye for detail in apprentices.

Calculating Geographic Positions Using Survey Data

Apprentices train to calculate geographic positions by:

• Identifying geodetic points and elevations.
• Applying standard mathematical formulas to scale and orient features accurately.

This task enhances apprentices’ mathematical and analytical capabilities.

Surveying Land and Water Features

Through on-site activities, apprentices gain experience in:

• Collecting data on Earth’s features using aerial photography and remote sensing.
• Observing and verifying details directly in photographed areas.

This fieldwork sharpens apprentices’ observational and verification skills, ensuring their maps reflect real-world conditions.

Analyzing Survey and Geographic Data

Interpreting survey and geographic data is another crucial activity, where apprentices:

• Analyze ground survey results, aerial images, and satellite data.
• Use these analyses to create topographic maps, photograph mosaics, and related charts.

This step focuses on turning raw data into practical visual representations.

Establishing Design Criteria and Specifications

Design criteria form the backbone of map-making. Apprentices are trained to:

• Define acceptable source material for specific projects.
• Ensure consistency and reliability in the materials used.

This activity emphasizes the importance of guidelines in maintaining standards.

Operating Computer Systems and Building Databases

Digital tools are indispensable in modern mapping. Apprentices learn to:

• Use software to construct and update digital mapping databases.
• Incorporate diverse data sources into cohesive digital formats.

This equips apprentices with the technical skills necessary for today’s digital mapping demands.

Selecting Operational Methods and Technologies

Apprentices receive training to select appropriate tools and techniques, including:

• Aerial photography and remote sensing methods that meet precision standards.
• Equipment like stereoplotters and computer software for creating accurate maps.

This task ensures apprentices can adapt to project requirements with the right technologies.

Common Apprentice Tools and Techniques for Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

This page includes information from APPRENTICESHIPUSA by the U.S. Department of Labor.