How did you become interested in your profession?

I became passionate about weather at an early age when a meteorologist visited my second grade class and showed a video on tornadoes. From that point on, I was all about severe weather and finding ways to warn people of the dangers it poses.

What led you to a career with the NWS (National Weather Service)?

Watching the destructive tornado outbreak on May 3, 1999 made me realize I wanted to devote my life to public service and warning people about deadly weather. I knew, even though I was only in high school at the time, that I wanted to be instrumental in saving lives and protecting property and I'm glad I found my way into such a profession.

How did you end up in Pendleton?

I began my career in Tallahassee, FL with an internship in graduate school. From there, I moved to the Norman/Oklahoma City, OK office and spent nearly 5 years dealing with tornado and severe thunderstorm outbreaks, wildfires, and historic floods. Thereafter, I spent 3 years as a senior forecaster in Tampa, FL dealing with tropical storms and hurricanes, harmful algae blooms, and waterspouts. Finally, in a move to realize my career dream of becoming a Warning Coordination Meteorologist, I came to Pendleton, which has presented me some of the most challenging and humbling weather hazards I've experienced. What's a ride it's been!

What do you enjoy most about working for the NWS?

The people are what I enjoy most. Those inside the office who I work alongside day after day with their diverse personalities, experiences, and personalities, it's just so amazing to watch everything work. Despite the differences we have, we share a common goal to save lives and though it can be messy at times, it's wonderful to see people unite around that mission. I likewise enjoy interacting with our core partners and the general public who all have a special weather story of their own. Everyone loves talking weather, it's literally one of the greatest ice-breaking topics I can think of. People make it fun!

What is your favorite type of weather and why?

The science geek in me really enjoys forecasting and warning for severe storms and tornadoes. But when it comes to my preferred weather to experience, I love the mild days and chilly nights of the Fall season in the Pacific Northwest. The changing leaves, upcoming holidays, and change of seasons can't be beat. Pumpkin spice anyone?

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

When I was a forecaster in Oklahoma, I was the warning forecaster on the May 31, 2013 El Reno, OK tornado. This tornado wound up being the widest on record at 2.6 miles wide and was undoubtedly one of the most powerful and impressive tornadoes I've witnessed. What made it most memorable, however, was what it took from me. Three dear friends who happened to be chasing the tornado, hoping to deploy research probes ahead of it, lost their lives when the tornado overtook them in poor visibility. The event forever changed the way I approach severe weather and leaves me with a greater respect for the true loss that many experience when it comes to killer tornadoes.

What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?

I enjoy almost any kind of fishing, though fly fishing is my favorite. I also enjoy sampling craft beer and fine wine which can all be easily accessed in the Inland Northwest. Lastly, I love holidays, especially Halloween and Christmas, for which I heavily decorate my home.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

It's hard to say precisely where I'll be 10 years from now, but I've grown fond of the western U.S. and it would be hard to leave the natural beauty and kind people one finds out here. It's hard to know what door will open or what bridge will be discovered down the road. I plan to stick to doing what I love doing and let it lead me where it may.