Training and Workshops

Introduction to GeoServer

Introduction to GeoServer is a hands-on course for GIS professionals, analysts, and organizations who want to confidently publish and manage geospatial data on the web using open-source technology.

The course introduces GeoServer as a core component of a modern GIS stack and shows how it fits into real-world workflows alongside tools such as QGIS and spatial databases. It builds a strong conceptual foundation while walking participants through practical configuration and publishing tasks drawn from common operational scenarios.

Throughout the course, participants work with both vector and raster data, organize and serve layers in multiple ways, and explore how GeoServer delivers data through standard web services. The course emphasizes understanding why configurations matter—not just which buttons to click—so participants can adapt GeoServer to their own environments with confidence.

The course also covers key considerations around performance, data access, and security, encouraging participants to think beyond basic layer publishing. By the end of the course, participants can manage a GeoServer instance, publish spatial data for internal or external use, and take the next steps toward building scalable, open-source web GIS solutions.

Upcoming Sessions

  • Friday, February 20, 2026 – 10am to 5pm EST – Virtual (Google Meet). Registration closes on February 17th, 2026.
  • Friday, March 20, 2026 – 10am to 5pm EST – Virtual (Google Meet). Registration closes on March 17th, 2026.

Prerequisites

This course targets participants who already have experience working with GIS. It does not introduce basic GIS concepts.

Participants should feel comfortable with common GIS ideas such as vector and raster data, coordinate reference systems, and working with layers in a desktop GIS environment (e.g., QGIS or similar software). While the course does not require prior experience publishing data to the web, a solid understanding of typical GIS workflows will help participants get the most value from the material.

No prior GeoServer experience is assumed.

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for GIS professionals who want to move beyond desktop GIS and start publishing spatial data in a controlled, scalable, and standards-based way.

It is well suited for:

  • GIS analysts and specialists looking to understand how their data is shared through web services
  • Municipal, government, and public-sector staff responsible for managing or distributing spatial data
  • Consultants and technical staff supporting clients with web GIS, data portals, or mapping applications
  • Organizations transitioning from proprietary GIS servers to open-source solutions
  • Anyone responsible for maintaining or supporting a GeoServer instance as part of a larger GIS stack

Included in the Course

  • One day of intensive, instructor-guided lessons and tutorials.
  • 15-day access to a LunaCORE GIS server that includes PostgreSQL, PostGIS, and Geoserver.
  • All course materials, including tutorials and sample data. 
  • Access to support during the event.

What You Need

Geoserver does not need to be installed locally. All participants will have access to a LunaCORE server. The following are required for this course:

  • A computer with a solid internet connection.
  • Install QGIS 3.40 LTR (download the latest LTR version here).

Cost

$200 CAD per participant

$150 CAD for existing LunaCORE clients

Registration