In the realm of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Tia Morita is a name that stands out for her dedication to public service and technical excellence. Known as the daughter of the late Pat Morita—famed for his iconic role as Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid series—Tia Morita has forged a successful career outside of Hollywood, making a significant impact in public infrastructure and GIS development in Los Angeles County.
With a strong academic foundation and years of professional experience, Tia Morita has become a key player in shaping how Los Angeles manages its public works. Her commitment to utilizing spatial data for better community planning and infrastructure reflects a passion that runs deep—one that’s rooted in both service and innovation.
A Legacy of Culture and Purpose
Tia Morita was born into a culturally rich and accomplished family. Her father, Pat Morita, was a trailblazer for Asian-American actors in Hollywood, and her mother, Yukiye Kitahara, supported the family behind the scenes. Though she grew up with ties to fame, Tia Morita chose a quieter, more technical path, focusing on how data can influence real-world decisions.
Her upbringing, steeped in Japanese-American heritage and a strong sense of purpose, has clearly influenced her own journey. She also shares her family life with her sibling, Aly Morita. Though Tia Morita carries the weight of her father’s well-known legacy, she has made a conscious decision to follow a career driven by her own goals and values.
Educational Excellence in GIS and Public Administration
Education has played a pivotal role in Tia Morita’s rise as a respected GIS professional. She earned a Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems from the University of Redlands, where she developed key skills in spatial analysis, GIS programming, and map creation. This degree provided her with the tools necessary to understand how geographic data can be used to solve practical problems in urban settings.
To complement her technical knowledge, Tia Morita pursued a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Washington. This added layer of education helped her gain a strong grasp of government functions, policymaking, and community planning—insights that now guide her work in public service. Her combined academic training makes her uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between technology and community impact.
Career Highlights: Serving Los Angeles Through GIS
Since 2020, Tia Morita has worked as a GIS Specialist at the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works. Her role focuses on the Survey Mapping and Property Management team, where she uses her GIS expertise to support infrastructure planning and maintenance across a county that serves over 10 million residents.
Her work involves creating digital maps, managing spatial databases, and analyzing land and property information. Through her efforts, decision-makers in Los Angeles are better equipped to plan new roads, develop flood control systems, and manage property assets efficiently.
Prior to this role, Tia Morita held positions that further expanded her GIS capabilities. She worked as a Principal GIS Analyst with the County’s Internal Services Department, supporting multiple departments with integrated spatial data solutions. She also worked in the private sector with Red Bull North America and Booz Allen Hamilton, taking on roles that enhanced her experience in geospatial analysis and project coordination.
Passionate Advocate for GIS and Equity
Tia Morita is more than just a GIS expert—she’s a passionate advocate for using technology to better serve communities. She is known for simplifying complex GIS concepts so that non-experts can understand and apply them in various sectors, including public health, emergency planning, and city development.
She actively participates in professional organizations like Women in GIS and the California Geographic Information Association (CGIA), where she contributes to initiatives that promote diversity, mentorship, and innovation in the field. Through these roles, Tia Morita encourages more women and minorities to pursue careers in GIS and technology.
A Life Grounded in Impact, Not Fame
Despite her Hollywood connections, Tia Morita leads a life that’s deeply grounded in service, not celebrity. Her personal life remains mostly private, and she prefers to let her work speak for itself. The values instilled by her family—hard work, perseverance, and humility—shine through in her professional journey.
By merging her love for geography and data with a passion for helping others, Tia Morita has proven that real-world impact doesn’t require the spotlight. Her story is one of purpose, professionalism, and quiet determination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Tia Morita?
Tia Morita is a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist working for the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works. She is also the daughter of actor Pat Morita.
What does Tia Morita do?
Tia Morita develops and manages GIS systems that support infrastructure planning, survey mapping, and property management for Los Angeles County.
What is her educational background?
She holds a Master of Science in GIS from the University of Redlands and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Washington.
Has Tia Morita worked outside the public sector?
Yes, she has also worked with companies like Red Bull North America and Booz Allen Hamilton, gaining experience in geospatial consulting and private-sector GIS applications.
Is Tia Morita involved in any professional organizations?
Yes, Tia Morita serves on the boards of Women in GIS and the California Geographic Information Association, helping promote inclusivity and professional growth in the GIS field.
Conclusion
Through hard work, education, and a commitment to public service, Tia Morita has built a meaningful career that impacts millions of lives in Los Angeles. Her path proves that influence doesn’t always come from fame—it can come from data, maps, and the dedicated professionals who use them to improve our cities. As GIS technology continues to evolve, leaders like Tia Morita will remain essential in shaping a more connected and informed world.
