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Vanessa Preasmeyer Harris

@vanessapreasmeyerhar

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GIS Analyst with expertise in wildland fire and community leadership.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am seeking a full-time remote or hybrid role in a government or mission-driven organization that values community engagement and offers opportunities for professional growth.

I am a resilient and versatile GIS Analyst with a strong background in emergency services and geospatial technologies. I recently earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Geography and GIS from Arizona State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA. My academic focus on applied spatial analysis, programming, and cartographic design has equipped me with the skills necessary to excel in this field.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated my ability to mentor and support peers in advanced GIS coursework, providing technical and academic assistance to students. My experience as a Wildland Firefighter/Engineer with the U.S. Forest Service has further honed my skills in fire suppression and public education, where I graduated in the top 10% of my apprenticeship academy. I am passionate about lifelong learning and community leadership, and I am eager to contribute to mission-driven organizations.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Peer Mentor

Arizona State University

May 2024 - May 2025 (1 year)

Provided technical, academic, and software support via Zoom to students in 7 advanced GIS courses. Guided students through geospatial analysis projects using ArcGIS Pro, Python, StatCrunch, and RStudio.

ArcGIS Python StatCrunch RStudio Zoom Geospatial Technical Support Support Collaboration

Wine & Service Educator

Cass & Hammersky Vineyards

Jan 2018 - Dec 2021 (3 years 11 months)

Provided wine and service education to customers. Ensured a high level of customer satisfaction.

Customer Service Sales Communication

Small Business Owner/Farmer

Heart of Paso Produce

Feb 2011 - Dec 2019 (8 years 10 months)

Founded and operated 2-acre organic farm; sold produce to markets, local businesses, and online. Managed finances, logistics, and community outreach.

Sales Marketing Financial Management Logistics Community Outreach Business Operations

Supervisory Daycare Provider

Kennedy Club Fitness

Jan 2015 - Dec 2017 (2 years 11 months)

Supervised children in a daycare setting. Ensured a safe and engaging environment.

Child Supervision SAFe Communication Childcare

Wildland Firefighter/Engineer

U.S. Forest Service

Mar 2002 - Mar 2009 (7 years)

Suppressed wildland fires across California and Western U.S. under extreme conditions. Operated and maintained Type III Engine, served as Squad Boss trainee on Hotshot Crew, and acted as ABRO at Air Base.

Wildland Fire Suppression Engine Operation Squad Boss ABRO Fuels Reduction Payroll

Paid Call Firefighter

San Luis Obispo County Fire

Jan 2001 - Dec 2003 (2 years 11 months)

Responded to fire and emergency calls as a paid call firefighter. Assisted with fire suppression and other duties.

Teamwork Communication

Apprentice Firefighter

City of San Luis Obispo

Jan 2001 - Dec 2002 (1 year 11 months)

Participated in an apprenticeship program to gain experience in firefighting. Assisted with various fire department operations.

Training Teamwork

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Arizona State University

Bachelor of Science, Geography and GIS

2023 - 2025

Grade: 4.0 GPA, Summa Cum Laude

Earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Geography and GIS with a focus on applied spatial analysis, programming, and cartographic design. Graduated Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA.