Fieldwork in Guatemala: GIS & Drone Mapping Institute

EWB-USA is launching a GIS/Geospatial Drone Mapping & GNSS fieldwork course sponsored by Trimble for those interested in developing hands-on experiences with drone mapping and processing.

Engineers Without Borders USA (EWB-USA) is now accepting applications for the GIS/Geospatial Drone Mapping & GNSS Field Institute, sponsored by Trimble. This immersive, hands-on program will take place in Guatemala from May 31 – June 11, 2026, offering participants the opportunity to build in-demand technical skills while contributing to meaningful, community-driven engineering projects.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and space is limited—early applications are strongly encouraged. Apply here!

Program Goals

Participants will travel to the Lake Atitlán, El Quiché, and Alta Verapaz regions of Guatemala, where they will:

  • Complete two days of in-class instruction
  • Conduct field data collection at 7–9 active project sites
  • Work alongside EWB-USA staff and local partners
  • Use industry-standard drone and GNSS technology
  • This experience provides a unique blend of technical training, cultural immersion, and real-world application.

Program Details

  • Dates: Sunday May 31st-Thursday June 11th, 2026 
  • Cost: $2112
  • Structure: Volunteers will travel to Guatemala, complete two days of in-classroom instruction, and then conduct field data collection using drones and GNSS technology at 7-9 EWB-USA project sites near Lake Atitlán, Nebaj, and San Cristóbal Verapaz, Guatemala, alongside EWB-USA partners.  

Who Should Apply?

There are no formal eligibility requirements, and the program is designed to support professional growth across a range of backgrounds.

EWB-USA especially encourages applications from individuals who:

  • Are interested in developing GIS and geospatial skills
  • Have basic Spanish proficiency (preferred)
  • Have some travel experience or are comfortable working in international settings

Why Participate?

Accurate geospatial data is critical to designing effective, sustainable infrastructure solutions. Through this institute, participants directly support EWB-USA’s mission by helping collect the data that informs projects in water, sanitation, and community development.

This is more than a training, it’s an opportunity to contribute to lasting impact while advancing your technical career.

Questions? 

Please contact EWB-USA staff member, Julia Slusarz julia.slusarz@ewb-usa.org with any questions.

Watch the March info session here.