Gateway Global's New Education Center Elevates Geospatial Careers in St. Louis

GUESTS GATHER AT THE GRAND OPENING EVENT IN NORTH ST. LOUIS CITY ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2024. PHOTOGRAPH BY CARTEL.

Gateway Global has launched a new initiative to enhance careers in the geospatial sector through a specialized program at a newly renovated education center in North St. Louis. This nonprofit organization aims to position the region as a significant player in the national geospatial industry.

The $6 million renovation, funded by donations and state grants, has transformed the 28,000-square-foot facility on Mallinckrodt Street into the Geospatial & IT Workforce & Apprenticeship Center (GIWAC), which opened on Friday, August 9th. The inaugural "Entry to Executive" program will begin in September at the refurbished Most Holy Trinity Catholic School.

GUESTS AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE OF THE GIWAC EDUACTION CENTER ON MALLINCKRODT ST. PHOTOGRAPH BY CARTEL.

Located approximately 1.5 miles from the under-construction National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency headquarters, GIWAC is set to become a central hub for geospatial training. Gateway Global is notable for being the only national center offering high school-level accreditation in geospatial intelligence.

Recently, GIWAC hosted its first summer program for 16- to 24-year-olds, providing 35 students with hands-on training in geospatial intelligence and geographic information systems over eight weeks. The program combined morning instruction with afternoon real-world problem-solving and included paid internships.

GUESTS AT THE GRAND OPENING EVENT RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY. PHOTOGRAPH BY CARTEL.

The building, originally constructed in 1884, has been modernized to include six classrooms, each accommodating 25 students, and approximately 80 computers, while preserving historical elements like the wooden staircase handrail, copper chapel wall panels, and stained glass.

Zekita Armstrong-Asuquo, CEO of Gateway Global, emphasized the importance of providing a space for young people to explore geospatial technologies. She also shared the organization's vision for expansion, including a planned geospatial simulation theater expected to break ground next summer and open by late 2026.