How can I break into the field of meteorology with my current background?

  • Thread starter Thread starter ACG
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on transitioning into a meteorology career, particularly for individuals with a background in software engineering and mathematics. The original poster holds a minor in Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences from MIT and is exploring options for further training or education. Key career paths include positions with NOAA, military agencies, and private forecasting firms, while academic roles typically require a PhD. The conversation emphasizes the importance of relevant certifications and personal traits for media meteorology roles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
  • Familiarity with meteorological software and forecasting tools
  • Knowledge of statistical analysis relevant to meteorology
  • Awareness of career opportunities within NOAA and other government agencies
NEXT STEPS
  • Research meteorology certification programs and their requirements
  • Explore job openings and internships with NOAA and private forecasting firms
  • Investigate amateur weather forecasting groups for networking and experience
  • Consider pursuing a master's degree or PhD in meteorology for academic roles
USEFUL FOR

Individuals with a background in software engineering or mathematics seeking to transition into meteorology, as well as those interested in weather forecasting and related career opportunities.

ACG
Messages
46
Reaction score
0
Hi!

I was wondering what the best way would be for me to transition into a career in meteorology. I have a minor in earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences from MIT (and would have probably become a meteorologist had I realized MIT had a degree in it!). My actual degree is in software engineering, but I've gotten a bit sick of that. I've been interested in weather my entire life, though.

I'm 38 and living in Boston. It would really help having job where you don't get yelled at if you make a mistake :)

Thanks in advance,

ACG
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I thought you needed statistics degree for that sort of thing.
 
Statistics? Why statistics?

My actual degree from MIT is actually math with computer science (so I've got a strong math background).
 
Wait I reread your post and I don't see any questions. What am i supposed to answer? I also thought you said your degree was from software engineering...
 
I have a software engineering degree but I'm thinking of changing careers. What additional training do I need? Where do I begin? Do I have to go back to school? Should I get involved with some weather forecasting group (at least amateur weather forecasting)?
 
Ok but just to clarify, you have 2 degrees? Software engineering degree and math with computer science ?
 
My degree is in math with computer science (theoretical CS for the most part with a strong math background) with a minor in earth, atmospheric, and planetary science. I have a master's in computer science.
 
ACG said:
My degree is in math with computer science (theoretical CS for the most part with a strong math background) with a minor in earth, atmospheric, and planetary science. I have a master's in computer science.

But you also said you had a software engineering degree. So can you clarify on that? Or is that your current occupation?
 
That's my current occupation. I was big on software for maybe 10 years and that's what my degree is in. My interests have changed a lot since then though, and meteorology/weather has always been a hobby.
 
  • #10
ACG said:
Hi!

I was wondering what the best way would be for me to transition into a career in meteorology. I have a minor in earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences from MIT (and would have probably become a meteorologist had I realized MIT had a degree in it!). My actual degree is in software engineering, but I've gotten a bit sick of that. I've been interested in weather my entire life, though.

I'm 38 and living in Boston. It would really help having job where you don't get yelled at if you make a mistake :)

Thanks in advance,

ACG

What kind of job would you be looking at in meteorology? You could become a media meteorologist with a BS and possibly a certificate if you have the right kind of personal traits. Otherwise the US jobs are mostly with NOAA, the military/DOD and perhaps a few other government agencies such as NASA or DOA. There are some private sector jobs such as with airlines and private forecasting/consulting firms. Forget academic jobs unless you have, or are prepared to get a PhD.

EDIT: Here's a list of US and Canadian training programs and degrees offered:

http://www.nwas.org/links/universities.php
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Similar threads

BSc in Meteorology with no experience -- Is it reasonable to look for international jobs?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Other Should I Transition from Meteorology to Game Design?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Engineering Is a Transition from Meteorology to Engineering Feasible?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Engineering I’m having second thoughts about my job position. How can I proceed with it?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
Physics How do I make myself a better job candidate?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Engineering PhD in Engineering, Very Rare in Industry I Work in, Impacts?
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K
Engineering Advice of pursing two MS degrees given my situation
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
827
Physics Is returning to school sensible for me?
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
5K
Margaret Hamilton, Lead Programmer, Apollo Program's Guidance Computer
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Job Skills Should I go back to school? How do I progress from here?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K