Offenders convert maps for the digital age

Map reading has entered a new era with offenders working in the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) facility at TDCJ getting a hands-on opportunity at converting traditional maps to documents for the digital age.

Photo of supervisor and offenders discussing a drawing of a map

17 offenders at the GIS facility at the Ferguson Unit convert hardcopy maps and existing digital data into a comprehensive system of graphics to create a more thorough and intelligent mapping system. These can then be used for planning, analysis or disaster recovery, to name just a few applications. This information can help answer numerous questions, such as how many residences will be affected by a 100-ft. widening project on a neighborhood street? Or what kind of coverage can 100-ft. hoses provide for a neighborhood using its existing fire hydrants? The possibilities for the usage of these new documents is extensive.

The program falls under Texas Correctional Industries (TCI). TCI manufactures goods and provides services to city, county, state and federal agencies, public schools, public and private institutions of higher education, public hospitals and political subdivisions. Past clients include the City of Amarillo and the City of Dallas, as well as the Texas Department of Transportation and the Harris County Flood Control District.

Photo of offender at a CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) computer

Offenders working in the GIS facility receive comprehensive training in Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Graphic Information Systems and can receive an "in house" certificate upon completion of their training qualifying them to work as a draftsman in home improvement stores or engineering departments in either a government entity or in the private sector.

The skills an offender obtains working in the GIS facility can also be used in areas such as the oil and gas industry, emergency planning operations or environmental remediation companies for analysis and cleanup operations.

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