Jerrod Lessel

Background

About Jerrod Lessel

Currently, at Caltrans, Jerrod specializes in travel demand modeling and forecasting utilizing tools like TransCAD, StreeLight, and Replica to create design designations, work with MPO models, and conduct Cal-B/C analyses. Beyond his modeling duties, he is pivotal in managing and maintaining geospatial data to support district operations. He excels in creating interactive surveys and dashboards, automating workflows through scripting, building dynamic reports, and creating maps that inform decisions and improve resource allocation. Leveraging tools like ArcGIS Pro, Survey123, and Power BI, he focuses on modernizing processes and delivering accurate, accessible, and impactful geospatial solutions that drive efficiency and informed decision-making.Previously at Gro Intelligence, I delved deep into remote sensing and geospatial analysis, leading initiatives that included the development of proprietary crop masks and the company’s first flood indicator. By utilizing Landsat and Sentinel data, I provided innovative insights into agriculture and climate dynamics. Collaborating closely with data science and engineering teams, I contributed to product innovation while setting new industry benchmarks for accuracy and timeliness.As a subject matter expert in remote sensing, my expertise extends beyond project leadership to strategic knowledge sharing within the organizations I work for and the broader scientific community. My proficiency in tools such as Google Earth Engine, Jupyter notebooks, and GDAL has supported the successful launch of multiple geospatial datasets, reinforcing my role as a catalyst for advanced analysis at the intersection of technology and environmental science.