Paul Paddock
about
Welcome to my site!
I am a visual-spatial person, deeply immersed in the realms of visuals, art, and technology, but also a lover of nature and travel.
I currently hold a Master's in Geographic Information Science (GIS) from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities and a Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Arts and Sciences from the University of North Carolina - Asheville.
My journey has led me to explore the fascinating world of GIS, which I believe is a powerful tool for visual communication and a creative solution when traditional communication hits roadblocks. Bridging science and art has always been my passion, and my love for maps dates back to my childhood, when I regularly wrote road trip directions, compulsively organized information into lists, and challenged myself with geography puzzles for fun.
I have considerable experience applying GIS and visual-based technologies in the private sector, municipal government, nonprofits, and recently federal. My education in GPS, Databases, and Web GIS has equipped me with solid technical skills, while studies in Multimedia have enhanced my design awareness. Throughout my time both as an employee and as a student, I developed a variety of creative computer-generated applications, many of which are featured on this site. I embrace the belief that there are multiple solutions to any challenge, and that diverse communication methods can help bring those solutions to life.
I continuously strive to build on my unique blend of talents, which also includes music. Since the age of 9, I have honed my skills as a pianist and vocalist, having performed musical works with various ensembles throughout my lifetime. In some instances, I have integrated my own piano playing into digital media projects, creating a harmonious fusion of art and technology (See OpenPianoMap and Synesthesia).
Outside of work, I love to travel and my hobbies include bicycling, outdoor activities, music arranging, ensemble singing, jazz bands, swing dancing, model classic car building, photography, and some sky chasing.
Driven by a passion for cross-platform communication and visual storytelling, I am focused on creating global solutions that make a difference. With a solid foundation in software tools such as ArcGIS, Autodesk, Adobe, Microsoft, and Trimble, I bring a diverse skill set to every project. I believe that the future is shaped by creativity and adaptability, allowing me to tackle challenges with innovative approaches.
You can find additional information on my projects, work experiences, and interests throughout the rest of this site and by viewing my resume below.
"Paul is creative, imaginative, technically proficient, cooperative and a pleasure to work with. He will be an asset to any team!"
--Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation
"...somebody who really stands out when it comes to keeping things organized and engaging in quality work."
--XCEL Energy
“Based on my experience with him, I know him to be creative, innovative, and disciplined. He is also proficient on a host of high powered global positioning and graphic software programs. … I think any company would be lucky to have him.”
--Meagher & Geer Attorneys at Law
"...consistently demonstrates determination, devotion, and creativity to his work. He also has high intelligence combined with an appropriate humility, and he has a strong loyalty with his colleagues."
--Rock Landing
"Consistently pleasant, tackling all assignments with dedication and a smile.... Paul is a take-charge person who is able to present creative ideas and communicate the benefits."
--Williamsburg Campground/KOA, Inc.