FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 21, 2007

DRI hires Staff Visualization Scientist
Derek Norpchen comes from TRPA

RENO – Derek Norpchen has joined the Desert Research Institute as a Staff Visualization Scientist. He previously worked at the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), where he worked as a Geographic Information System (GIS) Specialist, Air-Quality Project Manager, and Graphic Illustrator.

“We are very familiar with Derek’s work here at DRI,” said Stephen Wells, DRI President. “While working at TRPA, Derek also worked on computer visualization, desert terrain and other projects here at the institute.”

Norpchen has a BFA in 3D Digital Graphics and a BS in Environmental Policy from Sierra Nevada College. He is also an Associate Astronomer, Teacher and Amateur Botanist with experience with Placer County Environmental Health, the US Forest Service and the US Geological Survey.

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