[OKGIS] Getting Started

[Heathe Kyle Yeakley]

Hello, my name is Heathe and I am interested in changing careers into 
GIS. I currently work as a Unix/Linux Systems Administrator for the US 
Government. I have an Associates degree in Telecommunications from 
OSU-OKC and haven't yet finished a 4 year degree. I heard about GIS a 
few years back and thought it sounded interesting at the time, but I 
didn't give it much thought. Recently, however, I've started thinking 
about changing careers and GIS is the field I'd like to pursue.

My question is, where do I start? I've looked for GIS degree programs at 
the local 4 year schools and haven't found anything. Yes, UCO and OU 
have classes on GIS that are part of the curriculum for a Geography (or 
related) degree, but I haven't found a course of study specifically on GIS.

What type of skills and education do prospective employers want in a GIS 
Analyst? Geography, Engineering, Physics? From what I've read the field 
sounds extremely diverse. I'd be happy to finish a 4-year degree if I 
knew what to major in.

What about local resources? If I wanted to just volunteer somewhere to 
get some hands on experience so that I'm not completely green to the 
field, whom should I contact. If I'm not cut out for this line of work 
I'd really like to find out now and save myself and any prospective 
future employers any headaches.

Thanks in advance for your responses.

- Heathe