I used to be an adventurer like you, until I took an arrow to the knee.

I am a geospatial scientist, someone who works with data and computer programming to analyze geographic patterns, like weather maps or LIDAR mapping archeological sites. It is an underappreciated technical field, but is a great choice for those who enjoy earth science, but may be too chronically ill to be travel a lot.

I hold a degree in Geography and Environmental Sciences, with a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GISP), along with experience in CompTIA and web design. I primarily study earth science through the use of this tech - geology, hydrology, meteorology, archeology, etc., all use GIS to an extent. There's a lot of raw data involved, and the spreadsheets I have to look at every day would be enough to spiral someone into madness.

But, on the opposite end, is the visuals. The world of spatial data is daunting in raw database format. It takes a wide mix of skills in both analysis, creativity, and web design to turn it into the beautiful cartography on display for the public.

Fantasy Cartography

I don't only do cartography for work. Some of my favorite projects include using my actual work skillset for making maps for fantasy worlds, D&D campaigns, and books. Some people in real cartography fields, like myself, take fantasy map making far too seriously... if you've ever heard arguements about "rivers starting from nowhere" or "mountains couldn't form there". In my opinion, who cares? Make a cool map, make a map you enjoy.