Meteorologists research the Earth’s atmosphere and produce weather forecasts for businesses, government agencies, television networks, and other organizations. A meteorologist’s education usually begins when a high school graduate enrolls in a meteorology-related undergraduate degree program, which is sometimes followed by enrollment in an advanced degree program. On-the-job meteorologist training begins after graduation, with new hires learning how to use specific types of software and interpret satellite data.
Many employers prefer applicants for meteorologist jobs to have studied the science in college, but some companies will accept applicants who studied mathematics or physics as long as they took some meteorology classes. People working in this field have a variety of job responsibilities, as do the academic requirements for each position. Because government agencies are frequently concerned with climate change, an applicant for one of these positions may be required to complete an advanced degree in climatology. Because shipping companies are primarily concerned with weather conditions at sea, meteorologists applying for positions with these companies may need to have studied marine meteorology. Employers sometimes prefer to promote from within, which means that an existing employee may be required to complete a master’s degree in a specific area of science before moving into a more specialized role.
Meteorologist training usually begins after college when a new recruit shadows an experienced forecaster. He or she is taught how to use computer programs to collect and analyze atmospheric data. These individuals are also taught how to interpret charts that detail weather patterns and atmospheric disturbances using a variety of techniques. Meteorologists, like many other branches of science, try to predict future events and are more concerned with developing theories than producing concrete facts. As a result, those new to the job may be asked to look over data from previous weather forecasts and patterns to see how weather systems typically develop in different areas.
In many cases, meteorologists are required to make presentations to committees that make decisions about changing travel routes or evacuating coastal areas during storms, either on television, radio, or in person. Aside from science, meteorologist training frequently includes classes in which new recruits are taught how to gather and disseminate data efficiently. Forecasters are taught how to use interactive devices that project weather maps onto screens, and television networks typically require meteorologists to complete broadcast training, which includes learning how to stand and address the audience in order to make forecasts understandable.