Nicholas Brand
About Me
- My name is Nicholas Brand. I was born and raised in Winona, Minnesota, and currently reside in St. Paul. I am a GIS Analyst with a strong background in geospatial analysis, topographic modeling, and web development. I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems, where I developed expertise in spatial data analytics, programming, and field research. My work focuses on applying GIS to solve real-world problems in areas such as precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, and natural hazard analysis.
- I am passionate about leveraging geospatial technologies to create impactful solutions. My skills include programming in Java, C++, Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, SQL, C, R, and Bash as well as proficiency in tools like ArcGIS, QGIS, and remote sensing platforms. I enjoy working on projects that combine data analysis, visualization, and fieldwork to address complex environmental and agricultural challenges.
- I am currently seeking a role as a GIS Technician, Geospatial Analyst, or Web Developer where I can apply my technical skills and research experience to contribute to innovative projects. I thrive in collaborative environments that encourage professional growth and provide opportunities to expand my expertise in GIS applications.
Work Experience
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UMN, Precision Agriculture - Researcher
(May 2024 - Present)- Led on-site field teams for soil, water, and crop sampling using various tools: Lysimeters, Dualex, Fieldscan Crop Circle Phenotype, Dualex.
- Built Python and R scripts to process and analyze large datasets for field and lab efficiency.
- Led team in developing Precision Agriculture On-Farm Research Network Website and maintaining the Precision Agriculture Center Website.
- Performed advanced geospatial analysis using LiDAR data, drone imagery, and weather data to create a robust geospatial database in QGIS, SMS Basic, ArcGIS, and Yield Editor.
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City of Winona, Park & Rec - Assistant General Manager
(April 2023 - May 2024)- Used geographic data to create new digital maps for updated Trail & Street maintenance.
- Aided trail construction by creating new maps, analyzing soil integrity, and assessing erosion likelihood.
- Managed 3 public facilities and assisted with Adult Sports and Special Events throughout Winona.
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UMN, Precision Agriculture - Internship
(May 2022 - July 2023)- Measured boundary lines using survey equipment to update maps.
- Used and organized source data from Landsat & Drone imagery.
- Collected soil, water, plant, and air samples from lysimeters, fields, streams, and collection areas.
- Performed geochemical analysis with pXRF & XRF spectrometers of thousands of samples.
Education
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Arizona State University - Geographic Information Science (BS)
(August 2023 - May 2025)- Relevant Courses: Fundamentals of Coding, Geographic Info Science 1-3, Stats for Geography & Planning, Adv Stats Geography & Planning, Cartography & Georepresentation, Geodesign and Urban Planning, Env Mgmt Systems & Strategy, Remote Sensing & Geo Analysis of Natural Resources & Environment, Basic Soil Science.
Skills
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Programming Languages:
- Java, C++, Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, SQL, C, R, Bash
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Tools and Platforms:
- GitHub, Windows, Esri Suite (ArcGIS, Collector, etc.), Visual Studio, RStudio, Web Soil Survey, Citrix, GoDaddy, Squarespace, Drupal, MNTopo, SMS Basic, Yield Editor, QGIS, PlanetGIS, USGS Landsat, MNTopo
Certificates
My certifications and achievements.
Projects
PAC On-Farm Research Network
The PAC On-Farm Research Network is a collaborative initiative aimed at advancing precision agriculture practices through on-farm research and data-driven insights.
Precision Nitrogen Managment
The PAC On-Farm Research Network is a collaborative initiative aimed at advancing precision agriculture practices through on-farm research and data-driven insights.