DIGIT Lab – NHT Butterfield &
Central Wasatch Commission Projects
Central Wasatch Commission Projects
Overview
Through DIGIT Lab, I supported applied GIS projects for NHT Butterfield and the Central Wasatch Commission.
The work focused on turning fragmented spatial data into structured, usable datasets and decision ready map products for regional planning and land management.
These projects required balancing technical GIS work with real stakeholder needs.
What I worked on
Cleaned and standardized spatial datasets from multiple sources
Structured attribute schemas for consistency and long term maintainability
Performed spatial analysis to support planning and land management questions
Built and refined web maps for stakeholder use
Assisted in translating technical GIS outputs into clear visual products
The problem
Regional planning efforts often rely on spatial data collected across agencies and time periods. Field names, projections, and attribute formats vary, which makes analysis and reporting difficult. Stakeholders need reliable spatial information but often do not have time to troubleshoot inconsistencies.
Without schema alignment and QA, analysis results can be misleading or difficult to reproduce.
My approach
I approached the work as both a data engineer and an analyst.
Standardized coordinate systems and projections
Cleaned and reconciled attribute tables
Ensured fields were clearly defined and consistently formatted
Verified spatial accuracy before analysis
Designed map outputs that emphasized clarity over complexity
I focused on making datasets stable and interpretable before layering on analysis.
Key contributions
Improved data consistency across partner datasets
Produced spatial layers ready for planning and reporting
Supported regional decision making through structured map products
Helped bridge the gap between raw GIS data and stakeholder communication
Strengthened reproducibility by documenting workflows
Outcome
More reliable spatial datasets for planning use
Clearer communication of spatial patterns and constraints
Experience working in a collaborative research lab environment
Direct exposure to applied regional GIS projects
This experience strengthens my ability to work at the intersection of research, planning, and real world spatial decision making, particularly within Utah’s regional governance context.