Colton Ward
Applied Math Student and Undergraduate Researcher
About
Applied Mathematics student with research experience in geospatial analysis, remote sensing, and large-scale environmental systems. Interested in mathematical modeling, computation, and data-intensive problem solving, with experience developing analytical workflows for complex real-world datasets.
Education
B.S. Applied Mathematics
Colorado State UniversityGPA: 4.0
2024 – 2028 · Fort Collins, CO
Experience
- Supported a remote sensing research project to detect and analyze irrigation patterns across South America, resulting in a poster presentation at Geological Society of America Connects 2026 and ongoing publication efforts.
- Developed a Python-based data processing pipeline using the Google Earth Engine API to extract 20 years of irrigation metrics for 38,520 cropland polygons, storing results in a DuckDB database.
- Designed and implemented an interactive Streamlit dashboard using Pandas, Seaborn, and SQL queries to perform statistical analysis and visualize irrigation patterns across cropland polygons and surrounding areas.
Python · Google Earth Engine · Remote Sensing · Geospatial Analysis · Data Analysis
- Processed research datasets, ran and debugged Python scripts, and organized field data to support analysis and research decision-making.
- Conducted field research to support irrigation experiments by collecting measurements, maintaining equipment, operating machinery, and assisting researchers with data collection and field operations.
- Performed GPS surveys of research plots and field trials to accurately map locations and ensure experimental data was collected from the correct areas.
GPS Surveying · Python · Data Collection · Field Operations
Projects
- Designed and implemented a PostgreSQL database architecture that ingests and stores live AIS vessel broadcasts via a WebSocket API and asynchronous Python processing system.
- Prototyping a TensorFlow autoencoder that uses vessel kinematics and trajectory features to identify anomalous behavior patterns in AIS vessel traffic.
Python · psycopg · PostgreSQL · Tensorflow · Polars · NumPy
- Custom art-inspired design featuring public-domain paintings and photography
- Data-driven content architecture using TypeScript modules
- Minimalist single-page layout built with reusable Astro components
Astro · TypeScript · Tailwind CSS · HTML
Tech Stack
Languages: Python · SQL · HTML
Libraries: NumPy · Pandas · Scikit-learn · SciPy · Seaborn · Streamlit · Google Earth Engine · TensorFlow · Polars
When I'm Not Working
- Piano
- My favorite composers to play are Debussy and Ravel, whose impressionist style inspired much of this website.
- Korean
- 안녕하세요! I'm far from fluent, but I enjoy learning the language and exploring Korean culture.
- Bouldering
- You'll usually find me on the Tension Board or the MoonBoard, chasing the next grade.
- Cooking
- Italian and French dishes are some of my favorite to cook, but I enjoy Japanese and Korean cuisine as well.
© 2026 Colton Ward
Art: Claude Monet, Rocks at Port-Goulphar, Belle-Île (1886) and Water Lilies: Clouds (1915–26); Robert William Vonnoh, Spring in France (1890); and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Seascape (1879). Art Institute of Chicago.