Alex Onojeghuo
Edmonton,AB
Summary
Result-oriented and experienced Remote Sensing & Geospatial Scientist passionate about manipulating data for decision-making through Remote Sensing and GIS technology. 15+ years of experience in the remote sensing and geospatial industry. Experience building products to work with spatial information; designing and building products that analyze, visualize and explore diverse spatial data. Proficient in using desktop and web-based mapping solutions (such as Google Earth Engine, ArcGIS Online, ArcMap, ArcPro and associated toolbox extensions) to deliver and support geospatial services.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Geographic Information System Developer
Alberta Geological Surveys
Edmonton, Canada
02.2022 - Current
- Creating web mapping applications and spatial data dissemination tools using ArcGIS Online Portal for ArcGIS, Python, ArcGIS APIs, and open-source libraries.
- Administration and maintenance of web applications and geospatial services.
- Building solutions levering Tier one technologies like ESRI, Geocortex etc., creating and managing application design documentation, and application support & management.
- Perform advanced geospatial data analysis across Alberta, such as favorability and suitability mapping, using large-scale geospatial data layers.
- Conducted research, gathered information from multiple sources and presented results.
Geospatial Data Scientist
JOLEXY Environmental Services
Edmonton, Canada
09.2017 - Current
- Project managed and delivered large-scale and fine-scale land cover mapping projects that utilized cloud computing-based solutions (such as Google Earth Engine) across parts of Alberta province.
- Produced a large-scale wetland inventory of the prairie pothole region of southern Alberta using multi-date and sensor data (Sentinel SAR and optical imagery combined with topographic data) and deep/shallow learning algorithms.
- Collaborated within a multidisciplinary team to simplify business analysis and find solutions to complex environmental land management issues.
- Integrated ArcGIS Online and Geocortex web solutions for GIS mapping.
- Implemented a cost-effective LiDAR processing workflow for analyzing millions of point cloud data using open-source software solutions (such as QGIS and R).
- Used coordination and planning skills to achieve results according to schedule.
Senior Geospatial Data Analyst
Solstice Environmental Management
Edmonton, Canada
07.2019 - 02.2022
- Successfully mapped wetlands using cloud-based computing and machine learning techniques. Developed a customized ArcGIS Story Map describing the project (https://arcg.is/1rDqqb)
- Research and development aimed at improving existing GIS and remote sensing services.
- Reduce the timeline associated with processing and analysis of big geodata by adopting cloud computing technology, boosting production by over 70%.
- Led the development of workflows from field data collection to visualization by integrating ESRI-based solutions such as web maps, Survey 123 apps, ArcGIS Online, and ArcGIS story maps.
- Data engineering, QA/QC, and management of GIS databases
- Setting priorities for daily work, long and short-term projects, and ensuring client satisfaction.
Researcher
Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute
Edmonton, Canada
01.2018 - 04.2019
- Delivered wall-to-wall open water layer generated using earth observation data hosted on Google Earth Engine and cloud-based tools (supervised Random Forest).
- Performed geospatial analysis through R scripting and GIS overlay operations with ESRI’s ArcGIS Desktop and ArcGIS Pro software
- Provided technical support to internal and external end-users on geospatial data analysis.
- QA/QC of spatial and non-spatial datasets from different sources to ensure completeness and suitability before performing system integration.
- Wrote research papers, reports and summaries regarding large-scale wetland and landscape mapping.
- Identified sources of funding to prepare research proposals and submit funding applications.
GIS Developer & Analyst
J.D. Irving Limited
New Brunswick, Canada
10.2017 - 01.2018
- Provided “client-specific” geospatial solutions, including automating spatial analysis workflow, cartographic mapping, documentation of processes and procedures, and ensuring data quality standards of generated products complied with the contractual agreement
- Performed advanced spatial data analysis using ArcGIS desktop tools (Spatial Analyst, geostatistical analysis, conversion tools, spatial Analyst, and 3D Analyst)
- Developed LiDAR data analysis tools through scripting with R, arcpy, python, and ESRI model builder.
- Combined remotely collected and on-site data acquisition to generate unified geographic mapping information.
- Provided technical recommendations and support documentation to aid in GIS process improvement.
- Transferred and rescaled information from aerial photographs to complete maps.
GIS Analyst
McDermott International Inc
Epsom, United Kingdom
06.2016 - 09.2017
- Provided GIS support for conceptual/Front End Engineering Design competitions and upstream field development projects.
- Executed advanced spatial data analysis/ cartographic mapping tasks with ArcGIS desktop (spatial analyst, 3D analyst, linear referencing, etc.) and advised clients on optimal pipeline routes saving millions of dollars in construction costs.
- Prepared 3D models for seabed and topographic analysis needed for analysis and simulation purposes for the client.
- Delivered a cost-effective workflow for assessing spatial data quality, improving clients’ overall productivity (over 60% turnaround).
- Provided technical recommendations and support documentation to aid in GIS process improvement.
Earth Observation & GIS Consultant
JOLEXY Environmental Services
Leicester, United Kingdom
09.2016 - 04.2017
- Performed object-based image classification of high-resolution multispectral/hyperspectral imagery and LiDAR data using machine learning algorithms (RF, SVM, and k-NN). Analysis performed with eCognition, R and ArcGIS Desktop. Link to high-impact scientific journal - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jag.2017.03.007.
- Extracting imagery and geospatial products from multiple sources, including Google Earth Pro, ArcGIS Online, Google Earth Engine, and Statistics UK
- Drove operational improvements which resulted in savings and improved profit margins.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
Senior Research Associate
Lancaster Environment Centre
Lancaster
01.2015 - 09.2016
- Participated in preparing project bids based on preliminary findings and won additional grant funds worth £189,000 from the UK-China STFC Newton Agri-Tech Programme
- Produced crop phenology temporal curves for rice crop performance with earth observation data (Landsat, MODIS, and Sentinel-1A radar)
- Analysis using ArcGIS desktop, SNAP, and ERDAS Imagine
- Delivered a detailed appraisal of satellite ‘hyper-sensing’ and developed novel machine-learning models for paddy rice mapping.
- Achieved project objectives by troubleshooting experiments and testing practical and creative solutions.
Senior Lecturer & Consultant
Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Anambra , Nigeria
09.2005 - 09.2016
- Analyzed remotely sensed data, built and managed geospatial databases, and performed cartographic mapping for a large-scale gully erosion monitoring project in southeastern Nigeria. For this project, ESRI’s suite of ArcMap software and relevant extensions (such as Spatial Analyst, 3D Analyst etc.) was employed for spatial data analysis and cartographic mapping
- Project managed a team of over 15 field surveyors using total stations and differential Global Positioning System devices, processed all field survey data, produced topographic maps and geodatabases, and generated technical reports for clients
- For over ten years, developed and contributed to the curriculum development of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Geoinformatics, remote sensing, and surveying principles.
- Supervised junior lecturers' course development and recommended refinements to enhance student learning.
Survey Report Coordinator & Data Processor
Fugro Surveys BV
, the Netherlands
10.2014 - 12.2014
- Learned new skills and applied to daily tasks to improve efficiency and productivity.
- Delivered services to customer locations within specific timeframes.
- Actively listened to customers, handled concerns quickly and escalated major issues to supervisor.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and fast-paced atmosphere.
- Created plans and communicated deadlines to complete projects on time.
- GIS, cartographic mapping and analysis of spatial data (such as LiDAR and bathymetric survey) using ESRI ArcGIS solutions.
- Fulfilled Mission Assurance requirements by performing self-QA/QC checks and peer reviews to verify products against standard sets of internal guidelines and contractual compliance, ensuring customer expectations were satisfied.
- Client coordination/servicing (existing and potential clients) and follow-up.
GIS Specialist
York City Council
York, United Kingdom
08.2014 - 09.2014
- Managed the GIS municipal database and created maps for the planning division, York City Council staff with MapInfo and ESRI ArcGIS desktop (ArcMap and ArcGIS for Server)
- Provided professional advice, consulted on various GIS matters for the client, and prepared large-scale proposal maps for the 2014 local plan report.
- Provided technical recommendations and support documentation to aid in GIS process improvement.
- Generated data layers, tables and reports for use by corporate and government clients.
National MRV Expert (GIS and Remote Sensing)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Abuja, Nigeria
09.2013 - 07.2014
- Project managed “wall-to-wall” mapping of forest cover change on a national scale using remote sensing and GIS techniques (data analysis with IDRISI, ERDAS Imagine, and ArcGIS).
- Conducted “requirement gathering” to meet stakeholder needs and assessed existing infrastructure to determine the quality of GIS support required (hardware, software, and instrumentation)
- Established a GIS and remote sensing laboratory for the Forestry Commission in Cross River state and conducted technical capacity-building workshops/seminars for stakeholders
- Facilitated collaboration between FAO and NASRDA (National Space and Research Development Agency, Nigeria), resulting in the project’s satellite imagery worth 400,000 US dollars.
GIS Manager
Fugro Surveys BV, GIS
, the Netherlands
03.2012 - 01.2013
- Led the GIS unit in designing and implementing GIS workflows for managing incoming geotechnical and geophysical survey data acquired on the project
- Managed geodatabases of existing subsea and surface structures in oil blocks with ArcGIS Desktop (ArcMap 10.1) and ArcGIS for Server software
- Conducted performance reviews of unit members and reported recommendations to the project manager
- Project managed and coordinated daily GIS activities and offshore crew survey operations from the project office.
PhD Researcher/Graduate Student Teaching Assistant
Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University
Lancaster, United Kingdom
10.2007 - 12.2011
- This project was performed in collaboration with the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, UK Environment Agency, and Petroleum Technology Development Fund Nigeria, focused on mapping the spatial distribution of reedbed habitats across the UK using GIS remote sensing techniques
- Published four scientific papers in high-impact journals focused on environmental remote sensing applications
- Taught and facilitated practical GIS and remote sensing lab sessions with undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- Taught small groups of students focused on specific parts of coursework.
- Prepared lessons according to course outline to convey required material and deepen student understanding of subject matter.
- Created opportunities for students to network directly with leaders in field.
- Led courses independently with minimal oversight from professors.
- Supported advanced field research by assisting with experimental design, execution and results tracking.
Education
Ph.D. - Geography (GIS & Remote Sensing)
Lancaster University
Lancaster, United Kingdom12.2011
Master of Science - Surveying & Geoinformatics
University of Lagos
Lagos07.2002
Bachelor of Science - Surveying & Photogrammetry
Enugu State University of Science And Technology
Enugu, Nigeria11.1999
Certificate - Intro To Web Development With HTML, CSS,JavaScript
IBM
Online12.2021
Certificate - Python For Data Science, AI & Development
IBM
Online12.2021
Certificate - Imagery in Action
ESRI
Online09.2021
Certificate - QGIS For Groundwater Modelling
Australian Water School
05.2021
Certificate - Going Places With Spatial Analysis
ESRI
09.2020
Certificate - Introduction To AWS For Non-Engineers
Lynda.com
Online07.2019
Certificate - EIA & Strategic Environmental Assessment
University of Twente (ITC)
Online02.2013
Skills
- ArcGIS (Server, Enterprise, and Pro), FME, Microsoft SQL Server, GeoCortex Essentials, Javascript, & Google Earth Engine
- Artificial Intelligence Applications – such as ML algorithms (eg Random Forest, Support Vector Machine etc), and deep learning techniques (U-Net deep learning model), statistical analysis and data analysis using R and Python
- Remote sensing analysis (multispectral, hyperspectral and LiDAR)
Selected Publications
- Onojeghuo, A. O., Onojeghuo, A. R., Cotton, M., Potter, J., & Jones, B. (2021). Wetland mapping with multi-temporal sentinel-1 &-2 imagery (2017–2020) and LiDAR data in the grassland natural region of Alberta. GIScience & Remote Sensing, 1-23.
- Ndehedehe, C.E., Ferreira, V.G., Agutu, N.O., Onojeghuo, A.O., Okwuashi, O., Kassahun, H.T. and Dewan, A., 2021. What if the rains do not come? Journal of Hydrology, p.126040.
- Onojeghuo, A.O., Blackburn, G.A., Wang, Q., Atkinson, P.M., Kindred, D. and Miao, Y., 2018. Mapping paddy rice fields by applying machine learning algorithms to multi-temporal Sentinel-1A and Landsat data. International journal of remote sensing, 39(4), pp.1042-1067.
- Onojeghuo, A.O. and Onojeghuo, A.R., 2017. Object-based habitat mapping using very high spatial resolution multispectral and hyperspectral imagery with LiDAR data. International journal of applied earth observation and geoinformation, 59, pp.79-91.
- Onojeghuo, A.O. and Onojeghuo, A.R., 2015. Dynamics of forest landscape transition across protected areas in the Niger Delta from 1986 to 2014. Journal of Geoscience and Environment Protection, 3(07), p.1.
- Onojeghuo, A.O. and Onojeghuo, A.R., 2015. Mapping forest transition trends in Okomu reserve using Landsat and UK-DMC-2 satellite data. South African Journal of Geomatics, 4(4), pp.486-501.
- Onojeghuo, A.O. and Blackburn, G.A., 2011. Forest transition in an ecologically important region: patterns and causes for landscape dynamics in the Niger Delta. Ecological Indicators, 11(5), pp.1437-1446.
Timeline
Geographic Information System Developer
Alberta Geological Surveys
02.2022 - Current
Senior Geospatial Data Analyst
Solstice Environmental Management
07.2019 - 02.2022
Researcher
Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute
01.2018 - 04.2019
GIS Developer & Analyst
J.D. Irving Limited
10.2017 - 01.2018
Geospatial Data Scientist
JOLEXY Environmental Services
09.2017 - Current
Earth Observation & GIS Consultant
JOLEXY Environmental Services
09.2016 - 04.2017
GIS Analyst
McDermott International Inc
06.2016 - 09.2017
Senior Research Associate
Lancaster Environment Centre
01.2015 - 09.2016
Survey Report Coordinator & Data Processor
Fugro Surveys BV
10.2014 - 12.2014
GIS Specialist
York City Council
08.2014 - 09.2014
National MRV Expert (GIS and Remote Sensing)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
09.2013 - 07.2014
GIS Manager
Fugro Surveys BV, GIS
03.2012 - 01.2013
PhD Researcher/Graduate Student Teaching Assistant
Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University
10.2007 - 12.2011
Senior Lecturer & Consultant
Nnamdi Azikiwe University
09.2005 - 09.2016
Ph.D. - Geography (GIS & Remote Sensing)
Lancaster University
Master of Science - Surveying & Geoinformatics
University of Lagos
Bachelor of Science - Surveying & Photogrammetry
Enugu State University of Science And Technology
Certificate - Intro To Web Development With HTML, CSS,JavaScript
IBM
Certificate - Python For Data Science, AI & Development
IBM
Certificate - Imagery in Action
ESRI
Certificate - QGIS For Groundwater Modelling
Australian Water School
Certificate - Going Places With Spatial Analysis
ESRI
Certificate - Introduction To AWS For Non-Engineers
Lynda.com
Certificate - EIA & Strategic Environmental Assessment
University of Twente (ITC)
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