Vanessa Harris

I bring over two decades of professional experience, blending geospatial expertise with a strong foundation in emergency services and leadership. I recently served as a GIS Peer Mentor at Arizona State University, where I supported students across seven advanced courses using ArcGIS Pro, Python, R, and statistical tools. My background includes years as a wildland firefighter and engine operator for the U.S. Forest Service, small business ownership, and various supervisory roles that demonstrate my adaptability, service orientation, and team leadership. My career is marked by resilience, technical proficiency, and a commitment to public service and lifelong learning.

I hold dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Geographic Information Science & Cartography and in Geography from Arizona State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a perfect 4.0 GPA. My academic foundation is enriched by an Associate of Science in Fire Technology from Allan Hancock College and formal training through the USFS Wildland Fire Apprenticeship Program. I also have completed a robust set of technical certifications, including advanced ESRI web courses and FEMA emergency planning training, underscoring my commitment to continuous growth and applied spatial analysis.