AFFILIATIONS
EDUCATION
University of Florida, MAURP, 2003
University of Florida, BS, 1999
TEACHING
URP 6275: Intermediate Planning Information Systems
RESEARCH
I am GeoSpatial data scientist with expertise in transforming data into insights and developing solutions for geospatial-related research problems and business processes. I work with clients and researchers to understand their needs, identify appropriate data sources, and create solutions. I use a variety of software to vet, integrate, and transform disparate data into information and insights for planners and decision makers in the environmental, transportation, public health, and urban planning fields.
BIO
Sam joined the GeoPlan Center as a research assistant in 2000, then became a full time employee in 2003. He earned a BS in Environmental Science in 1999 then MA in Urban and Regional Planning in 2003, both degrees from the University of Florida.
Sam is an experienced geospatial professional that supports research, teaching, and service at the Center. He assists the Center’s Principal Investigators in management of funded research projects using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). He works closely with faculty, researchers, project sponsors, and external organizations to identify and assess geospatial problems, develop solutions, and present recommendations for resolution.
Sam’s work at the Center spans a variety of topics, such as:
- Geospatial data development, quality assurance/quality control of geospatial data, schema development, optimization of database performance, import and backup of data, and creation of database code to facilitate work flows within the database.
- Administration and maintenance of enterprise geospatial databases to support funded research projects.
- Collection, organization, and analysis of demographic data from the United States Census Bureau.
- Assisting with administration of the ESRI Campus Site License for the University GIS community, including communication with campus GIS users (faculty, staff, and students).
- Develop curriculum and teach courses for the Online Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
- Coordinate with public health researchers across campus to add demographic and geospatial expertise to their research projects.
- Serve on the board for Florida Urban and Regional Information Systems (FLURISA) to coordinate and promote GIS activities around the State.