Weather Intern Blog: New Places, New Faces...

Greetings from Norfolk, and the 34th annual National Weather Association conference. What is the NWA, you ask? Well, it is one of two professional organizations that meteorologists join in order to excel in their profession and in their understanding of meteorology. As a student first, I am here to create connections and to learn about professional life in the field of meteorology. I'm also interested in related professions. Another unique opportunity is that I am currently an intern (really?!?) who is unofficially representing WPXI, and the city of Pittsburgh. This year, the focus of the conference is learning, preparing, and understand the future of meteorology.

The first day is for broadcasters and students. I was running back and forth to each, taking notes for various talks, many of which I will bring back to Channel 11 and share with Severe Weather Team 11 (SvrWxTeam11 for short) As students, we learned the current state of meteorology. We discussed job openings; how to successfully make a resume; and how to interview for a job.

As a broadcaster, (well, future broadcaster) there are so many new ways to relay weather information on new social networks. The fastest we can accurately get information out, especially warnings or safety information, the better. There was also a talk about new radars that will be instated by the National Weather Service.

Meteorologists and students from all over are here for about a week, namely Nick Walker from The Weather Channel, Josh Korotky from the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, and Dave Freeman, chief meteorologist from KSNW in Kansas. He has done extensive studies on the 2007 Greensburg EF-5 tornado, during which he broadcasted live. There are other researchers from various national and international businesses, government organizations, and schools. California University of Pennsylvania is being represented by 20 students.