Roger Tomlinson
Early Life and Education
Roger Tomlinson was born in Cambridge, England, on 17 November 1933. He attended the University of Nottingham, where he received a degree in geography. He later earned a PhD in geography from the University College London, with a thesis on the application of computer systems to geographical data.
Career
After completing his education, Tomlinson moved to Canada, where he worked for the government as a geographer. He was instrumental in the development of the Canada Geographic Information System (CGIS), the first operational GIS in the world. His work with the CGIS marked the beginning of the field of geographic information science.
In addition to his work with the CGIS, Tomlinson also founded Tomlinson Associates Ltd., a consulting firm specializing in the application of GIS. His company worked with governments and organizations around the world to implement GIS in their operations.
Tomlinson also played a significant role in the development of GIS standards and the promotion of GIS education. He served as the chairman of the International Geographical Union's Commission on Geographical Data Sensing and Processing, and was a founding member of the Association for Geographic Information.
Contributions to Geographic Information Systems
Tomlinson is often referred to as the "father of GIS" for his pioneering work in the development and promotion of the technology. His work with the CGIS in the 1960s laid the groundwork for the modern field of geographic information science.
One of Tomlinson's most significant contributions to the field was the development of the concept of a "geographic information system". He was the first to propose the idea of using computers to store, analyze, and display geographic data, a concept that is now fundamental to the field of GIS.
Tomlinson also played a key role in the development of GIS standards. He was instrumental in the creation of the Digital Chart of the World, a digital map of the world that served as a standard for geographic data.
Awards and Recognition
Over the course of his career, Tomlinson received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field of geographic information science. He was awarded the Robert T. Aangeenbrug Distinguished Career Award by the Association of American Geographers, and the Carl Mannerfelt Gold Medal by the International Cartographic Association.
In 2005, Tomlinson was awarded the Alexander Graham Bell Medal by the National Geographic Society for his contributions to geographic science. He was also made an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest civilian honors.
Later Life and Legacy
Tomlinson passed away on 7 February 2014. His contributions to the field of geographic information science continue to be recognized and celebrated. The Roger Tomlinson Prize, awarded annually by the Association for Geographic Information, is named in his honor.
Tomlinson's work has had a profound impact on the field of geographic information science. His development of the concept of a geographic information system has revolutionized the way we understand and interact with geographic data. His legacy continues to shape the field, influencing the development of new technologies and methodologies in GIS.