SQL Spatial Training

by The Spatial Distillery Company

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Designed for GIS professionals and data analysts, our SQL spatial training helps you confidently manage, query and analyse spatial data using Microsoft SQL Server.

From working with simple point features to managing enterprise-scale geospatial data, SQL is a powerful tool. At The Spatial Distillery Company, our one-day, hands-onSQL Server Spatial Training Course is built to show you how, honing practical skills to boost your workflows.

**SQL Server Spatial Training**

**1 day online, instructor-led**
Our SQL Server Spatial Training Course is designed for GIS Professionals looking to manage spatial databases and get the most from SQL Server Spatial.
Topics covered include, Accessing and using SQL Server management studio. Creating database connections. Adding data to a SQL Server Database – creating tables, uploading existing GIS layers and creating geometry on the fly with well-known text. SQL Spatial Geometry Data Types. Creating spatial indexes. Advanced SQL Server querying functions + more.
**2025 SQL Training Course Dates**
- 27 Mar, 2025 SQL Server Spatial Training (Fully Booked)
- 30 July, 2025 SQL Server Spatial Training
- 29 Sept, 2025 SQL Server Spatial Training
- 29 Oct, 2025 SQL Server Spatial Training
- 3 Dec, 2025 SQL Server Spatial Training

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Why Learn SQL Spatial?

SQL Spatial opens up a faster, more scalable way to handle geospatial data. With spatially enabled databases, you can manage large datasets and cut down processing time while running complex analyses and collaborating across teams without relying on desktop software or spreadsheets.

It’s also highly versatile. Once you know the basics of SQL Server Spatial, you’ll be able to work with major GIS platforms, cloud databases, and tools like Maxar, Global Mapper, and Geo AI.

What You’ll Learn in the SQL Server Spatial Training Course

In our SQL spatial training, you'll get hands-on with spatial queries, database design, and automation techniques that bring your spatial datasets to life. Learn how to:

Connect and navigate SQL Server using SQL Server Management Studio.
Work with spatial datasets, including importing, updating, and viewing location data.
Design and manage spatial databases.
Create and manage spatial indexes for faster performance.
Write spatial SQL queries to filter, analyse, and extract key insights.
Use views, triggers and stored procedures to automate data flows and reporting.
Apply real-world spatial logic to streamline decision-making.

Walk away with practical skills for mapping assets, planning infrastructure, or integrating data into GIS mapping software.

Who is This SQL Spatial Training For?

GIS professionals modernising their workflows
Data analysts seeking faster, flexible spatial analysis
Developers building location-based applications
Teams looking to scale spatial data capabilities

Master SQL Today

The SQL Server Spatial Training Course equips you with the tools to do more with your data. If you're ready to move beyond desktop GIS and spreadsheets, streamline your spatial workflows, and unlock new possibilities with SQL Server, this course is your next step. Contact The Spatial Distillery Company today.

SQL Spatial Training FAQs

No coding background is required. This SQL spatial training course is designed for individuals and teams of all skill levels. You’ll learn step-by-step how to work with SQL Server Spatial, write spatial queries, and manage geospatial databases in a hands-on, approachable way.
You'll need access to Microsoft SQL Server and SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS). Instructions on how to download and install the required tools will be provided prior to the SQL spatial training. All sessions are run online, so a stable internet connection and basic PC setup are also essential.
Yes. The SQL Server Spatial Training Course is a great complement to QGIS, MapInfo, and other GIS platforms. You’ll learn how to use SQL Server to centralise, scale and automate your spatial data workflows, making it easier to connect, analyse and visualise data across systems.

Meet the Team

Laurence Quilter

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.
David Weir

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.