GIS Analyst

LEONARD ANYAN-DARKO

Macomb, IL ***** *.*******@*****.*** +1-309-***-**** [Portfolio] [LinkedIn]

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Dynamic GIS professional with extensive experience in geospatial analysis, cartography, and data management. Equipped with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and Rural Development & History and an upcoming Master’s in GIScience and Geoenvironment from Western Illinois University (Dec 2024). Expertise in converting analog to digital maps, spatial analysis, and web-based GIS applications. Proven record of managing large-scale projects such as the 2021 Population and Housing Census for Ghana and delivering GIS solutions in academic and professional settings. Strong skills in spatial data visualization, environmental applications, and geospatial technologies with a commitment to data-driven decision-making.

EDUCATION

Master of Science in GIScience & Geoenvironment

Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL (Expected Dec 2024)

Bachelor of Arts in Geography & Rural Development and History

University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana (May 2017)

GPA: 3.0

TECHNICAL SKILLS

GIS Software: ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, AutoCAD

Remote Sensing: Image analysis, object classification

Data Collection Tools: Survey123, ArcGIS Field Maps, GPS devices

Data Analysis: Spatial modeling, hydrological modeling, ArcGIS ModelBuilder

Programming & Tools: Basic knowledge of Python for GIS, Esri MOOC applications

Cartography: Map design, web map development, and EA boundary verification

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

GIS Intern

Western Illinois GIS Center, Macomb, IL (May 2024 – Present)

Develop GIS solutions for Western Illinois University and the City of Macomb.

Create indoor navigation maps for Illinois NextGEN 911 using AutoCAD and ArcGIS Pro.

Train in drone flying for data collection and imagery analysis.

Collect and process points of interest using GPS devices and ArcGIS Field Maps.

GIS Analyst

Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), Accra, Ghana (Aug 2018 – Dec 2022)

Designed and digitized maps for the 2021 Population and Housing Census.

Produced spatial distribution maps and web maps for data analysis and navigation.

Conducted data cleaning and shapefile creation for topographical integration.

Trained and supervised National Service Personnel on map digitization techniques.

Verified geospatial boundaries through aerial imagery overlays.

GIS Technician

Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), Accra, Ghana (Sept 2017 – July 2018)

Converted analog maps to digital formats to modernize the GSS geospatial database.

Developed agricultural census maps for regional boundary analysis.

Assistant Complex Director

Western Illinois University Housing, Macomb, IL (July 2023 – May 2024)

Managed facility operations and supervised 28 student staff.

Provided conflict resolution and mental health support to dorm residents.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE

Sales Manager, Monicell Ventures (Jan – Sept 2017): Supervised sales, inventory, and junior staff.

Trainer & Facilitator, World Bank & GSS Initiatives (Various Years): Delivered GIS training workshops for data collection teams in Ghana.

CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING

ESRI MOOC: Spatial Data Science: The New Frontier in Analytics (2024)

21-Day Online GIS Training: QGIS for Spatial Analysis (2020)

LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Vice President, Ghanaian Students Association – Western Illinois University

Member, TedX WIU: Advocating for student voices on campus and community issues.

Volunteer, Community GIS workshops and reforestation projects, Ghana

AWARDS

International Commitment Fee (Western Illinois University) - $4,000 grant given to international students who had a GPA of 3.0 or higher in Undergraduate studies and are fully enrolled in a Graduate Program in WIU.

Graduate Assistantship Grant - Full Tuition payments for qualified students who were awarded Graduate Assistant positions (I got this grant as an Assistant Complex Director and as a GA in the GIS Department).

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