GSS Spotlight!

MATT REID

What is your education and professional background?

I have a Bachelor's degree in environmental science, policy, and management as well as a sustainability studies minor from the University of Minnesota. Currently, I am pursuing a Master's degree in Data Intelligence and GeoAnalytics (DIGA). In my professional career, I've worked as an Elections Administrator with the City of Minneapolis and more recently, with a small environmental startup. 

What led you to GIS? More specifically, how did you get to Saint Mary's University of Minnesota (SMUMN) in the Twin Cities? 

I felt like I wanted to develop a more technical skillset. I had been exposed to GIS in my undergraduate program as well as in my professional life. I decided I wanted to continue my education and started looking for GIS related programs. Both of my parents attended Saint Mary's, so I had a connection to the university. I also thought the DIGA program looked like a good fit so I applied. 

Explain briefly a project at GSS you've done that contributed to your overall knowledge and educational experience.

So I've worked on two projects updating the National Hydrography Dataset in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) and Kuskokwim areas of Alaska. While working on these projects I've become very comfortable editing data inside the ArcGIS software, interpreting satellite imagery, and I've learned some basic principles of hydrology, understanding how water flows over the landscape. Knowing I'm contributing to an important national database makes this work feel exciting and worthwhile. 

How do you see GIS fitting into your future? 

One of the great things about GIS is it can be used in almost any field. Personally, I am very interested in energy and sustainability, so I hope to build a career in a similar field. Hopefully, GIS empowers me to become an effective problem-solver and contribute to a more resilient, and sustainable society. 

Where can we find you outside of GSS?

Outside of GSS you can find me at the bouldering gym, playing video games, camping, or playing soccer with my elite co-ed rec team. When I'm not studying, of course.