1. How did you become interested in meteorology?

I was originally scared of thunderstorms, particularly lightning. However, during a visit to my grandma's house, I found an old VHS series titled *Fury on the Plains*. After watching it multiple times, I became hooked on severe weather and storm chasing.

2. What led you to a career in the National Weather Service (NWS)?

A career in the National Weather Service was always my primary goal. After undergrad, the agency was in a hiring freeze, which prompted me to explore options in the USAF. I became a weather forecaster in the Air Force in 2012, and after my service, I secured a meteorologist forecaster position with the NWS in 2016.

3. What is it about the NWS that makes you want to work here?

It's always about the people—whether it's the local community or our partners. Having the opportunity to be deeply involved in the community and communicate weather information to ensure safety is what drives me in this role.

4. What advice do you have for someone who wants to become a meteorologist?

Have a strong foundation in math and science. If you're not interested in coding, don't be discouraged! You can explore social science fields or graphical design applications within meteorology. I also recommend taking a public speaking course to enhance your communication skills.

5. How did you end up in Rapid City?

A few years before I landed the position at the Rapid City forecast office, my family and some college friends vacationed there. We were all amazed by the landscape and scenery, so when my dream job at the Rapid City WFO became available, I jumped at the opportunity and was eventually hired.

6. What is the most memorable weather event you've experienced?

May 23, 2008. I was taking a summer course called *The Severe Weather Field Experience*—essentially a storm chasing class. We were chasing in Kansas when we intercepted an EF4 tornado near Quinter, KS, the same tornado well-documented as it crossed the interstate. Later that day, we caught another tornado near Garden City, KS. In the evening, we drove through Greensburg, KS, which had been devastated by an EF5 tornado the previous year.

7. What are your interests outside of work?

I’m an avid bowler and regularly participate in leagues and tournaments. I also enjoy disc golf, cooking, gardening, coaching ice hockey, and photography.

8. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

In ten years, I see myself continuing in my role as the Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the Rapid City, SD forecast office.