Meteorologists

There are several ways that you can explore career possibilities in meteorology. Each year, for example, the federal government's National Weather Service accepts a limited number of student volunteers, mostly college students but also a few high school students. Some universities offer credit for a college student's volunteer work in connection with meteorology courses. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration can provide details about the volunteer program. The armed forces can also be a means of gaining experience in meteorology.

Arrange for an information interview with a meteorologist who works at a local airport or college offering classes in meteorology. Your high school counselor should be able to help you set up this meeting. You can also get additional information from meteorological organizations.

The American Meteorological Society offers a comprehensive career guide on its Web site, https://www.ametsoc.org/index.cfm/ams/education-careers/careers/career-resources. Content includes suggestions on the types of course work and training to consider during the college years, various career opportunities, typical employers and workplaces, job and salary outlook statistics, and certification information.

You can also read books about meteorology. Here are two suggestions: Meteorology Today: An Introduction to Weather, Climate, and the Environment, 12th edition, by Donald C. Ahrens and Robert Henson, and The Atmosphere: An Introduction to Meteorology, 14th edition, by Frederick K. Lutgens, Edward J. Tarbuck, Redina Herman, and Dennis G Tasa. Ask you school or community library to provide more suggestions.