An innovative vertical integration model for recruiting to GIS education was introduced and tested following four driving forces: curriculum development, GIS presentations, institutional collaboration, and faculty training. Curriculum development was a useful approach to recruitment, student credit hour generation, and retention-rate improvement. Recruitment presentations increased GIS awareness at all levels. The intensive teacher training combined with GIS class-development through institutional collaboration was effective in enhancing GIS education at high schools and community colleges. The vertical integration model is an effective means of recruitment for GIS education and could be used by programs confronted with problems in recruitment. (Contains 1 figure and 3 tables.)