Interesting Careers In Meteorology

By Carey Bourdier


Obviously, most people's first thought about meteorology features an image of a smartly dressed man or women standing behind a local map telling us all about our local weather. Another common image is that of an adventurous storm chaser capturing images of tornadoes. Beyond those images, there are many different types of meteorologists, all of whom are dedicated to learning as much as they can about atmospheric phenomena.

One career option for the budding meteorologist is the field of operational meteorology and this is one of the branches of meteorology that most people know about. These scientists will earn at least a bachelor's degree and during their studies they will become familiar with weather systems, weather patterns, observational balloon theodolites and other optical instruments as well as learning about gathering satellite data and using meteorology-related computer programs. After receiving a degree, this person might seek a job at the Weather Channel or perhaps NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).

Another type of meteorology is atmospheric meteorology and it is quite similar to operational meteorology in many ways. However, an atmospheric meteorologist moves beyond providing weather information for civilians and governments and studies the characteristics of the atmosphere throughout the planet. This includes studying climate change and pollution and its effects on weather and the atmosphere. This type of meteorologist will learn how to use many of the same programs and optical instruments as an operational meteorologist, such as the observational balloon theodolite, an anemometer and a barometer to name a few.

If you wish to study changes in weather and weather trends, another option would be to become a climatologist. In many ways, you will be studying the same type of data that atmospheric meteorologist study, but you will go back farther in time. In fact, you will look at historical and ancient weather data as well as looking back at climate changes that occurred millions of years ago. Rather than working with theodolites and anemometers, you might instead look at ice core samples and other items that provide clues about the history of weather on our planet.

While a forensic meteorologist might not get outside and use a theodolite or equipment, they can be called on to help solve crimes or perhaps testify in both civil and criminal lawsuits as an expert witness. A forensic meteorologist will study historical data and make a determination regarding weather conditions during a specific event, such as a large-scale traffic accident, an airplane crash or perhaps for an insurance claim of some type. This person would testify as to the exact temperatures as well as the rainfall, humidity level and other weather-related phenomena that occurred at specific time or time period.

These are just a few of the branches of meteorology that you might consider studying if you are interested in any type of weather-related or climate-related career. Not only will you learn how to use interesting computer programs, satellite systems and optical tools such as the observation balloon theodolite, you can help better prepare people for upcoming weather events and climate changes.




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