November 19, 2025, marks the 26th anniversary of National Geographic Information System (GIS) Day

Reps. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) and Jay Obernolte (CA-23) introduced a resolution officially designating November 19, 2025 as National Geographic Information System (GIS) Day. As GIS users around the world showcase their work, the resolution encourages GIS users to continue innovating and utilizing GIS as a tool to help drive economic growth and foster a more informed and connected world.

“From navigation to natural disaster response planning to so much more, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) help keep our communities safe and well-connected,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I applaud the important and innovative work of GIS professionals and their role in boosting our economy and improving the quality of life for countless people with this technology. I am proud to introduce this resolution alongside Rep. Obernolte in honor of National GIS Day and to recognize the incredible impact of this essential technology.”

“Geographic Information Systems are essential tools that help us better understand our communities, strengthen public safety, support infrastructure planning, and drive economic growth,” said Rep. Jay Obernolte. “Here in California’s 23rd District, we see that impact firsthand through Esri, which provides high-quality jobs and supports our local innovation economy. I’m proud to recognize National GIS Day and celebrate the educators, technologists, and students whose work ensures America continues to lead the world in geospatial innovation.”

“I want to commend Representatives Aguilar and Obernolte for introducing the House resolution honoring GIS Day 2025,” said Jack Dangermond, President, Esri. “This annual event celebrates the importance of geographic information systems (GIS) technologies, which are having an ever-increasing impact on all sectors. These tools play a crucial role in operations at every level of government and help nonprofits, educational institutions, and the private sector with geospatial analysis of a wide range of questions and issues. GIS systems are driving significant economic growth and are integrating with AI-enabled tools to better help us solve problems. Happy GIS Day to all!”

“On behalf of the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), I applaud Representatives Aguilar and Obernolte for introducing the GIS Day resolution,” said Linda Foster, PLS, GISP, MGIS, NSPS President. “As partners and stewards of the critical geospatial infrastructure that underpins our country, the land surveying and GIS communities continue to respond to natural disasters, manage land and resources, and advance our nation’s infrastructure for the benefit of society. GIS Day is more than a celebration – it’s a recognition of essential work that ensures our communities thrive.”

“New and exciting applications of geospatial data, services, and technology portrayed, visualized, and accessed in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are brought to the market for the benefit of individual citizens, government at all levels, and private enterprise every day,” said John Palatiello, President and Founder, U.S. Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO). “And Congress is increasingly recognizing the value of ‘where’ in legislation. GIS Day is a time to recognize how billions of dollars in business activity, the creation and support of tens of thousands of jobs,  economic growth and development, protection of the environment, and many of other important activities are supported by GIS. We commend Representatives Aguilar and Obernolte for introducing the GIS Day resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives.”

“The GPS Innovation Alliance applauds Reps. Aguilar and Obernolte for introducing the GIS Day Resolution,” said Lisa Dyer, Executive Director, GPS Innovation Alliance. “Geographic Information Systems and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Systems such as the Global Positioning System and complementary space-based PNT systems work hand-in-hand to deliver lifesaving information that also brings important economic, and national security benefits to the nation. Discovering and mining Rare Earth minerals, building and repairing infrastructure, ensuring first responders arrive at emergencies quickly and efficiently, and mapping boundaries between neighborhoods and districts are just of the few essential applications that rely on GIS and PNT. We appreciate Representatives Aguilar and Obernolte’s initiative to highlight this important technology in the U.S. House of Representatives.”