Dave Wendt

Looking for a new challenge

Morongo Valley, California, United States

About

I connect geography, technology, and design to solve real-world problems. With 20+ years in GIS, I've helped organizations transform spatial data into actionable insight across civil engineering, land use, and environmental science. My background spans graphic design, cartography, coding, and digital visualization, complemented by hands-on craftsmanship in woodworking, metal fabrication, glassblowing, illustration, and 3D art. I'm driven by curiosity, thoughtful design, and building things that are both functional and beautiful.

Experience

  • Machine Learning Specialist at Sunday
    Oct 2024 - Present · 1 yr 10 mos

    Recorded human motion data with Skill Capture Glove to train autonomous robots Evaluated and refined datasets for real-world home assistance tasks Contributed to next-gen autonomous robot development for improved human productivity

  • Geographic Information Systems Analyst at Scale AI
    Sep 2020 - Sep 2024 · 4 yrs 1 mo

    Labeling/annotation for Lidar identifying specific feature types to assist autonomous vehicles and improve machine learning data. Write post process audits and error reports, and identify and resolve root causes to improve quality and provide actionable feedback to respective teams on product improvement.

  • GIS Technician / Production Specialist at Cruise Automation
    Oct 2017 - Sep 2020 · 3 yrs

    Promoted into leadership responsibilities, supporting resource forecasting and driving operational process improvements. Designed and implemented training resources, SOPs, and feedback systems to scale team performance Contributed to the advancement of autonomous rideshare operations through cross-team collaboration.

  • GIS Specialist at Uber
    Oct 2015 - Oct 2017 · 2 yrs 1 mo

    Improved 3D mapping delivery by driving workflow and tooling enhancements, increasing efficiency and data quality Oversaw resource allocation to consistently meet deadlines and budget targets Audited and refined production pipelines, identifying key opportunities for scalability and performance gains Spearheaded special projects to streamline operations and elevate output quality Delivered presentations of R&D initiatives to senior leadership and stakeholders

  • Microsoft (4 yrs 3 mos)
    • Product Management
      Jul 2014 - Oct 2015 · 1 yr 4 mos

      Supported global launch of Bing Maps 3D in 70+ cities, meeting aggressive timelines and quality standards Optimized production workflows and tooling, improving efficiency and consistency across the pipeline Managed and mentored a large GIS team, driving high-performance delivery in a deadline-driven environment Collaborated with engineering teams to research and enhance proprietary mapping tools and processes Established SOPs and training programs to scale operations and maintain quality at volume Led comprehensive QA efforts, ensuring accuracy across geometry, textures, and lighting Facilitated effective bug tracking and cross-team communication to resolve production issues quickly

    • DSM Production Manager
      Jul 2013 - Jul 2014 · 1 yr 1 mo

      Directed production teams to deliver complex projects on time, within budget, and to strict quality standards Oversaw forecasting, planning, and execution across changing project scopes and technical environments Partnered with engineering and product leadership to drive alignment and ensure successful delivery outcomes Led team development through training, performance management, and structured evaluations Implemented scalable SOPs and operational frameworks to support evolving tools and workflows Enhanced reporting and decision-making through custom-built tracking tools and performance metrics

    • Research and Development Technician
      Aug 2012 - Jul 2013 · 1 yr

      Partnered with developers and project managers to support aerial and streetside imagery initiatives for Bing Maps Contributed to the development and implementation of proprietary tools, workflows, and production pipelines through beta testing and structured feedback Conducted audits of production tools and pipeline design, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and data quality Led special projects focused on optimizing workflows and elevating production standards Created SOPs and quality specifications to support adoption of new tools and processes Delivered demos and presentations of R&D initiatives to leadership, product managers, and cross-functional stakeholders Supported development of competitive quality and hardware specifications through research and benchmarking