Peter Kato

Landscape architect and urban planner with graduate-level experience in urban planning, landscape architecture, transportation, community engagement, and environmental research. Skilled at translating complex data into actionable planning and design recommendations through GIS, spatial analysis, site planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Experienced supporting public-sector, nonprofit, and academic projects focused on sustainability, resilience, equitable community development, and ecosystem management.

Seeking planning, landscape architecture, transportation, or environmental roles where strong analytical, technical, and stakeholder engagement skills can drive measurable community impact.

Graduate Researcher - Ecosystem Management Micro-Intern - Phillips Ranch Assessment District

(2025-09 - 2025-12)

• Developed ecosystem management recommendations that supported long-term environmental stewardship, wildfire resilience, and landscape performance.
• Evaluated native habitat restoration, water conservation, and hazard-reduction strategies to inform planning recommendations.
• Delivered research findings that strengthened decision-making for sustainable land management.

Graduate Researcher - Palm Lakes Park Planning & Design Project

(2025-01 - 2025-05)

• Led site analysis, precedent research, and community engagement activities to shape redevelopment concepts.
• Synthesized environmental, recreation, and accessibility data into planning recommendations that prioritized sustainability and public access.
• Produced graphics and technical reports that supported multidisciplinary design reviews and project communication.

Research Intern - Livable Communities Initiative

(2022-04 - 2023-07)

• Produced research reports, planning memoranda, and policy analyses supporting urban planning initiatives.
• Analyzed zoning ordinances, development proposals, and field data to improve planning recommendations.
• Collaborated with GIS and CAD specialists to create visual materials that strengthened project presentations.

Planning and Outreach Intern - Pacoima Beautiful

(2023-02 - 2023-07)

• Prepared grant narratives, planning reports, and presentations that advanced community-focused initiatives.
• Built relationships with residents and stakeholders through outreach activities that aligned projects with community priorities.
• Created GIS and CAD graphics to communicate planning concepts effectively.

Business Accounts Manager - Wireless Lifestyle

(2013-06 - 2021-01)

• Coordinated projects, schedules, and cross-functional operations while maintaining high service standards.
• Strengthened vendor and stakeholder relationships to improve operational efficiency.
• Reviewed contracts and supported business continuity planning.

Master of Landscape Architecture - Landscape Architecture - California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (2026-05)

Bachelor of Arts - Urban Planning and Studies - California State University, Northridge