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Our Background

Simon: CEO and CBW (Chief bottle wash)

Welcome to TerraAnalytica. I'm Simon, with years of experience in geospatial analysis and GIS technologies, my career journey spans from academia to TerraAnalytica in 2023, driven by a passion for geospatial science.

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My Story

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My experience includes roles at NIWA and Auckland Council, culminating in the creation of TerraAnalytica to deliver innovative geospatial services. Notable projects include collaborating with a UK satellite startup on urban heat mapping.

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Core Values

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  • Integrity: Honest and transparent business practices.

  • Innovation: Cutting-edge technology and methodologies.

  • Sustainability: Commitment to environmental stewardship.

  • Customer Commitment: Tailored services exceeding client expectations.

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Engage with TerraAnalytica

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Explore TerraAnalytica to discover how my expertise can support your goals. We partner with you for informed decision-making and sustainable growth.

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Connect with Me

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I’m eager to connect with like-minded professionals in geospatial science and sustainability. Reach out to learn more about TerraAnalytica.

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Education

2001-2004

Master of Science: Geography.

Uni of Canterbury

Focused on remote sensing techniques, my master's program equipped me with strong analytical and technical skills. Key highlights include:

  • Research Focus: Conducted in-depth research on the influence of land cover on thermal infrared (TIR) pixel values in heterogeneous environments. Explored how emissivity variance affects temperature readings in mixed pixels using ASTER and simulated MODIS imagery.

  • Georeferencing and Fieldwork: Led efforts in georeferencing imagery, including submeter GPS recordings of scene features. Investigated the potential for automatic georeferencing from linear intersecting features, such as road intersections.

  • Urban Landcover Analysis: Modeled and compared different landcover types in urban environments to understand variance in pixel values. Examined the relationship between NDVI and thermal variance.

  • Leadership and Collaboration: Directed fieldwork activities, assisted by a fellow student, demonstrating leadership and project management skills.

  • Impact and Application: This study contributed to a better understanding of urban thermal imagery analysis and the influence of landcover on TIR values, crucial for urban heat island studies.

  • Academic Coursework: Completed master-level papers in Environmental Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems, Glaciology, and Atmospheric Studies.

  • Continued Education: Post-masters, attended classes in Resource Management Act, Kaitiakitanga and Indigenous Studies, and an additional paper in GIS.

2004 - Present

Google, Lutra, Udemy, NASA ARSET and Coursera

Since my studies at Canterbury, I have undertaken numerous additional courses to further my knowledge and skills. These include:

  • ESRI-related Courses: To stay updated with the latest advancements in GIS technology.

  • QGIS Courses through Lutra Consulting: Enhancing my proficiency in QGIS.

  • Google Courses on Coursera: Covering Project Management, Data Analytics, and Business Intelligence.

  • Udemy course on various technical topics including a master class on Python Programing.

  • NASA ARSET Training: Participated in training and seminars through Coursera, focusing on remote sensing and earth observation.

  • Philosophy of Science from Penn University: To broaden my understanding of scientific principles and methodologies.

I have maintained a learning and growth mindset since leaving school, consistently pursuing opportunities for professional development.

1997 - 2001

Bachalor of Science: Uni of Canterbury

I chose the University of Canterbury for its renowned Antarctic Studies program, aligning with my passion for remote sensing and environmental science. Key highlights of my Bachelor's studies include:

  • Major in Geography: Focused on physical geography, spatial analysis, and environmental systems. Key papers included Field Studies, GIS, Remote Sensing, Snow and Ice Processes, and Atmospheric Studies.

  • Minor in Geology: Developed a strong interest in volcanology and geological mapping. Gained in-depth knowledge of Earth's materials and processes through structural mapping field studies around the South Island.

  • Top-Heavy Curriculum: Primarily completed second and third-year papers, providing advanced knowledge and skills.

  • Field Studies: Geography fieldwork involved GPS technology, radiosonde, total stations, and both qualitative and quantitative research. Geology fieldwork focused on structural mapping.

  • Technical Skills: Proficient in GIS software (ArcInfo, ArcView, ERDAS image, ENVI, ArcGIS, Grass) and remote sensing techniques.

  • Antarctic Studies: Participated in courses related to Antarctic research and its physical environment.

  • Additional Coursework: Completed a non-advancing physics paper, broadening my scientific knowledge.

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