NWS Lubbock, TX Staff Listing

Gary Skwira
Senior Forecaster
National Weather Service – Lubbock TX

Introduction:
I grew up near the small town of Cold Spring, Minnesota (located in center part of the state, 15 mile southwest of St. Cloud, or about 70 mile northwest of the Twin Cities). Ever since I was a small kid I have been fascinated with the weather, especially severe thunderstorms and snow storms. While growing up I was known for often climbing up on the roof to get a better vantage point of nearby weather (I don't recommend this). This interest in the weather led me to nearby St. Cloud State, where I earned a BS degree in meteorology. After completing the Bachelor's degree, the potential of severe thunderstorms and a graduate school program in atmospheric science at Texas Tech teamed together to draw me to Lubbock in 1996. I have been here ever since as a student, research associate, and now a NWS employee.

Education:
Saint Cloud State University: Bachelor’s degree in Meteorology; 1996

Texas Tech University: Master’s degree in Atmospheric Science - Meteorology; 1998

Texas Tech University: Doctoral degree in Atmospheric Science - Meteorology; 2003

NWS Career - Highlights:
National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Lubbock, TX:
Observing Program Leader (OPL), 2021 - Present
      Senior Forecaster, 2018 - 2021
      General Forecaster, May, 2006 - 2018
      Meteorologist Intern, November, 2003 - May, 2006