In this edition of "People of PRI," we introduce Sunita Mahat, a visiting scientific specialist in GIS at the Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS), a division of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI). Sunita shares insights into her role in the Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Inventory and Characterization Project, her passion for using technology to address environmental challenges, and her advice for aspiring GIS analysts. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities, reading, cooking, and spending quality time with her family.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your role at PRI.
A: I am Sunita Mahat, a Visiting Scientific Specialist in GIS at the Illinois State Geological Survey. At PRI, I am primarily involved in the Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Inventory and Characterization Project, where we focus on integrating GIS data and tools using the ESRI suite of products to update Illinois's mined-out area inventory.
Q: What questions do you get asked most frequently about your career?
A: People often ask what the role of a GIS analyst is and how one can develop the skills needed to become a GIS analyst.
Q: What tools are indispensable to your work?
A: The ESRI suite of products, such as ArcGIS Pro, Survey123, and Python, are indispensable. These tools are crucial for solving problems and conducting research involving data management, data synthesis, developing interactive web apps, spatial analysis, automation, and creating publication-quality maps.
Q: What drew you to your area of work or study?
A: I’ve always been interested in using technology to solve environmental problems, and GIS allows me to do just that. Working on projects like AML, where I can see the impact of my work, is incredibly rewarding.
Q: What advice would you give to those just starting out in your field?
A: I suggest developing a strong foundation in both the ESRI suite of software, web applications, and programming languages like Python, as they are essential in GIS work. Gaining practical experience is also very important.
Q: What do you do in your free time (i.e., hobbies, family life, etc.)?
A: In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities, reading, cooking, watching movies, and spending time with my family.
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Sunita can be reached at smahat(at)illinois.edu