Ayesha Wilkinson
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Office: National Weather Service Boulder
Job Title: Meteorologist
Educational Background:
- I received a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State and I’m working towards my masters degree through Colorado State University. Always learning! Never stop learning!
Describe the career path that led you to your current job with the National Weather Service.
- I’ve always had a passion for science and communication. I took on a Pathways internship for NOAA HQ and discovered how passionately our employees work to meet the mission of saving lives and property. Using my education in meteorology and communication, I wanted to be a part of those passionate employees helping to better our enterprise! Additionally, I wanted a career where each day isn’t the same. Working for the National Weather Service, I’m always learning new and efficient techniques to enhance my forecasts and communication skills.
What do you do for the NWS?
- I provide general weather forecasts/warnings and local expertise to various populations such as the public, emergency managers, and public stakeholders. To ensure this information is communicated properly, we use our social media channels and hold webinars to meet the needs of our customers. Furthermore, I educate our customers through outreach events such as Spotter Talks, school events, preparedness webinars, and even outdoor venues! Outside of our core duties, I also spend time working on increasing diversity within our agency through our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs).
What was the most interesting, exciting, or impactful weather/water event you experienced while working for the NWS and why does it stand out?
- My most impactful weather event is tied between the Boulder, CO Marshall Fire and High WInd Event in Dec 2021 and 25-30 inches of snowfall within two days during the Historic March Blizzard of 2021 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Those two events were extremely pivotal in my career, and I learned that local National Weather Service offices are extremely important to the general public during these high impactful events.
What do you like most about working for the NWS?
- There is never a boring day! Each day, the forecast is changing. It’s exciting to pursue learning something new. Teamwork and trust are important values at NWS–internally and externally. I take great pride in knowing that my coworkers and partners support and trust my work!
What advice do you have for someone interested in a career with the NWS?
- Take on a Pathways or volunteer internship! This will really help foster connections within NWS and you will obtain a remarkable amount of experience!
What training or coursework would you recommend to someone interested in following your career path?
- Of course, math and science are incredibly important to interpret data. I also strongly recommend taking graphic design and communications training. Every single day, we are creating ways to communicate the ever-changing forecast and having those skills are irreplaceable!
