Spectrum Spatial Administrator Training

GIS Consultant & Trainer

Professional Summary

Laurence Quilter is a GIS consultant and trainer with a master’s degree in Geospatial Science. Based in the Sydney region, he specialises in QGIS and Python scripting for spatial automation and analysis. Laurence is passionate about empowering teams to build their own spatial solutions using open-source tools and expert-led guidance.

Core Expertise and Focus Areas

QGIS Intro and Advanced

- Delivers hands-on training for both introductory and advanced users, including map creation, editing, spatial analysis, and plugin-based workflows.
- Teaches how to use QGIS's DB Manager for managing spatial databases, running spatial SQL queries, and automating geoprocessing tasks.

QGIS & Python

- Delivers practical QGIS training from fundamentals to advanced usage, emphasising workflows such as mapping, data editing, spatial querying, and plugin use.
- Integrates Python scripting (PyQGIS) into training, teaching participants how to automate repetitive GIS workflows, customize tools, and extend QGIS capabilities through scripts and plugins.

SQL Spatial / SQL Server Spatial

- Offers instruction on designing and querying spatial databases using Microsoft SQL Server spatial data types and functions.
- Guides participants on performance tuning, indexing strategies, spatial joins, and integration with Python and GIS platforms for streamlined workflows.

Qualifications and Experience

- Holds a Master’s in Geospatial Science (AUT, Auckland) with solid Python proficiency for geospatial applications.
- GIS consultant at Integrape (Australia), delivering consulting and training services in open‑source GIS and spatial data management.
- Strong academic and practical background in GPS/GIS analysis, spatial modelling, and geospatial database management.

Training & Consulting Services

Laurence offers structured and hands-on training modules tailored to client needs, including:
- QGIS Essentials to Advanced – Training covering mapping, spatial analysis, attribute editing, and plugin-based functionality.
- Python for QGIS Users – Workshops focused on PyQGIS scripting, automating geoprocessing tasks, creating custom tools, and building seamless spatial workflows.
- SQL Server Spatial Training – One-day workshops introducing spatial data types, spatial indexing, spatial queries, and performance optimisation within SQL Server.
- Integration Workshops – Combined training modules focused on integrating QGIS, Python, and SQL spatial workflows for efficient GIS project delivery.

These training sessions can be delivered in person or online, and are available throughout Australia.

Why Work With Laurence

- Open‑source specialist: Strong focus on QGIS and Python workflows, helping organisations adopt flexible and cost-effective GIS solutions.
- Automation-first mindset: Training emphasises scripting and automation to save time and improve repeatability.
- Educator at heart: Training modules designed to build participant confidence in independently managing GIS workflows.
- Local relevance: Australia-based consultant with experience in public sector, environmental, and enterprise spatial projects.

GIS Training Consultant

Professional Summary

David Weir is a seasoned Geographic Information Systems (GIS) consultant and training specialist based in Sydney. Working with The Spatial Distillery Co., he helps clients unlock the power of spatial tools through expert training and hands-on consulting. He specializes in QGIS, MapInfo Pro, Spectrum Spatial, and SQL Spatial (including SQL Server Spatial), delivering tailored training programs and solutions that drive business value and efficiency.

Core Expertise and Focus Areas

QGIS Intro and Advanced

- Delivers hands-on training for both introductory and advanced users, including map creation, editing, spatial analysis, and plugin-based workflows.
- Teaches how to use QGIS's DB Manager for managing spatial databases, running spatial SQL queries, and automating geoprocessing tasks.

MapInfo Pro & Spectrum Spatial

- Provides comprehensive training on MapInfo Pro, including spatial SQL with MI‑SQL and integration with Spectrum Spatial.
- Covers publishing maps via MapUploader, working with Spectrum Spatial repositories, and administering Spectrum Spatial Analyst for organisation-wide spatial access.

SQL Spatial / SQL Server Spatial

- Offers training on setting up and querying spatial databases using SQL Server’s native spatial types and functions.
- Focuses on writing spatial queries, indexing, performance tuning, and integration with GIS applications like QGIS and MapInfo.

Qualifications and Background

- Graduate of the University of New South Wales (UNSW).
- GIS Consultant at The Spatial Distillery Co., a leading Australian location intelligence consultancy and Precisely/MapInfo Platinum Partner.
- Over a decade of professional GIS experience across local government, utilities, and enterprise environments.

Training & Consulting Services

David offers structured, practical training programs including:
- QGIS Essentials & Advanced – Comprehensive courses covering mapping, spatial analysis, database integration, and automation.
- MapInfo Pro Level I & II – Two-day sessions focused on data visualisation, spatial editing, and MI-SQL.
- SQL Server Spatial – One-day course on spatial data types, indexes, and query optimisation.
- Spectrum Spatial Administration – Intensive training for configuring and deploying enterprise spatial systems.

Training can be delivered on-site or online across Australia.

Why Work With David

- Technical depth: Extensive knowledge across open-source and commercial GIS systems, with a focus on real-world application.
- Practical delivery: Courses are hands-on, using real data and examples relevant to participants’ industries.
- Team enablement: Designed to build internal capacity, making teams more self-sufficient in spatial data use.
- Trusted expertise: Backed by The Spatial Distillery Co., a highly regarded consultancy in GIS and spatial analytics.