Aaron Sanchez
Laredo,TX
Summary
Data scientist and systems engineer with expertise in high-performance computing, machine learning, and geospatial data processing. Major contributor to the TAMIU Center for Earth and Environmental Studies GitHub organization. Experienced in developing end-to-end data pipelines, managing Linux HPC clusters, and implementing spatial downscaling models for environmental research. Strong background in Python, R, ArcGIS, and tree-based machine learning algorithms with a proven track record of supporting interdisciplinary research initiatives.
Programming professional with substantial experience in software development and a history of delivering high-quality code. Known for strong collaboration skills and ability to adapt to evolving project requirements. Expertise in coding, debugging, and optimizing software systems, coupled with a commitment to achieving impactful results.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Programmer I
Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX
11.2021 - Current
- Worked with US Census data as part of students' performance vs economic status research, as well as when assisting students in an ArcGIS class for their final projects.
- Reinstalled, configured, and optimized Slurm workload managers across Linux HPC clusters; performed cluster distro conversion from CentOS to Ubuntu Server
- Developed automated pipelines using Python, ArcPy, and ArcGIS Pro to extract, clean, and transform multi-source environmental datasets into ML-ready formats
- Implemented machine learning models (Random Forest, XGBoost, Gradient Boosting) using TensorFlow Decision Forests and DMLC for spatial downscaling of soil moisture data
- Co-authored published research on "Machine Learning Downscaling of SoilMERGE in the United States Southern Great Plains" (Remote Sensing, 2023)
- Major contributor to TAMIU CEES GitHub organization, maintaining research codebases and documentation: https://github.com/TAMIUCEES
- Managed NFS systems, Windows servers, user onboarding, and provided technical consultation for researchers
- Created reproducible, documented workflows and Jupyter notebooks for research dissemination and training
- Implemented testing procedures to ensure code quality and functionality.
- Streamlined workflows through automation, reducing manual effort across departments.
- Mentored junior programmers, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing.
- Integrated data visualization media and tools to illustrate complex analyses.
PPP Application Reviewer
Cherry Bekaert LLP
02.2021 - 04.2021
- Reviewed and approved Paycheck Protection Program loan applications and forgiveness documentation
- Analyzed financial documents, including payroll records, tax documents, and bank statements, to ensure compliance
- Managed paperwork workflow, processing 5 applications daily
- Remote
- Evaluated compliance with regulatory standards to ensure adherence across client engagements.
- Maintained strong attention to detail while reviewing numerous documents daily, ensuring consistent quality and accuracy.
- Conducted thorough reviews of financial statements, identifying discrepancies and recommending corrective actions.
IT Support Intern
Harmony Public Schools
10.2016 - 01.2020
- Managed database of 700+ IT assets, including Chromebooks, desktops, and network equipment
- Deployed applications and diagnostic scripts using Windows CMD and bash scripting
- Maintained Linux distributions (Manjaro, Mint, CentOS) and performed network troubleshooting
- Assisted in organizing educational resources for teachers and students.
- Coordinated scheduling and logistics for school events and activities.
- Supported staff with daily administrative tasks, ensuring timely completion.
- Monitored student attendance records, maintaining accurate data entry processes.
- Showcased versatility in adapting quickly to new software tools introduced into the work environment as part of continuous improvement efforts.
Education
Master of Science - Data Science
The University of Texas At Austin
Austin, TX08.2025
Bachelor of Science - Mathematics and Computer Science
Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX01.2020
Skills
- Programming Languages: Python, R, C#/C, SQL, JavaScript/TypeScript, Bash
- Machine Learning: TensorFlow Decision Forests, XGBoost (DMLC), scikit-learn, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, SHAP
- GIS & Data Processing: ArcGIS Pro, ArcPy, MODIS, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Analysis, Raster/Vector Processing
- Systems & Infrastructure: Linux Server Administration, Slurm, HPC Clusters, NFS, VPN Management, Ubuntu/CentOS
- Data Visualization: Power BI, SAS, Jupyter Notebooks, Matplotlib, Seaborn
- Databases: SQL, Database Design, Data Structures & Algorithms
- Project management
- Testing and debugging
- Coding
- Data visualization
- Technical consulting
- Scripting languages
- Linux environments
- Hardware configuration
- GitHub collaboration
- Software deployment
- Python and C
- Version control
- Data structures
- User requirements
- Object-oriented programming
Certification
- University of Texas at Austin:
- Data Science for Health Discovery and Innovation (June 2025)
- Deep Learning (June 2025)
- Data Structures & Algorithms (December 2024)
- Machine Learning (December 2024)
- Foundations of Regression and Predictive Modeling (August 2024)
- EdX Verified Certificates:
- Probability and Simulation-Based Inference (May 2024)
- Data Exploration and Visualization (March 2024)
- Design Principles and Causal Inference (September 2023)
- Databases: Advanced Topics in SQL (June 2021)
- Machine Learning for Data Science and Analytics (June 2021)
- Visualizing Data with Python (June 2021)
- Data Science: R Basics (April 2021)
- Professional Certifications:
- CompTIA Linux+ ce Certification (December 2022 - December 2025)
PUBLICATIONS
Tobin, K., Sanchez, A., Esparza, D., Garcia, M., Ganta, D., & Bennett, M. (2023). Machine Learning Downscaling of SoilMERGE in the United States Southern Great Plains. Remote Sensing, 15(21), 5120. Impact Factor: 4.1, CiteScore: 8.6
OPEN SOURCE CONTRIBUTIONS
- TAMIU Center for Earth and Environmental Studies (CEES)
- Major contributor to github.com/TAMIUCEES research organization
- Developed and maintained research codebases for environmental data science projects
- Implemented machine learning pipelines for geospatial data processing and analysis
- Personal GitHub: github.com/SterbenS117
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Programmer I
Texas A&M International University
11.2021 - Current
PPP Application Reviewer
Cherry Bekaert LLP
02.2021 - 04.2021
IT Support Intern
Harmony Public Schools
10.2016 - 01.2020
Master of Science - Data Science
The University of Texas At Austin
Bachelor of Science - Mathematics and Computer Science
Texas A&M International University