About Ed Townsend

How did you become interested in your profession?

I have been interested in weather for a very long time. As a child I moved around quite a bit, and I was able to experience states such as California, Michigan, and Kentucky. Time spent in those states exposed me to different weather and climates, which gave me a varied weather perspective at a young age. While each locale was unique, my exposure to winter weather and thunderstorms in Kentucky was certainly a starting point for my interest when I was in elementary school.

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

I was fortunate to have a straightforward path into the NWS. I completed my Bachelor‘s Degree in Meteorology and my Master’s Degree in Atmospheric Science at SUNY Oswego and the University of North Dakota, respectively. With interests in both forecasting and research, I have always wanted to pursue operational meteorology but also to be in a position to apply the latest and greatest tools and information. As such, I applied for a student employment position and was able to join the NWS before completing graduate school.

How did you end up in Pendleton?

I have always had a strong affinity toward the science and learning-side of the NWS. Therefore, it wasn’t a surprise early on in my career that I found my path guiding me toward the Science and Operations Officer position. My dream job, in combination with my fondness for mountain and winter weather, made the choice to move to Pendleton an easy one!

What do you enjoy most about working for the NWS?

The people. I truly enjoy being able to engage and work with passionate people inside and outside of our agency. Inside the agency, I am fortunate to work with individuals who are truly dedicated and mission first. So much so, that their passion is contagious and honestly makes you appreciate what you are doing whether it’s working on a project or serving our partners and the public. Outside of the agency, I interact with individuals who are eager to integrate our services into their lives and livelihoods. The trust they place in our organization allows us to reach more people than we could ever hope to alone, and it allows me to focus on the “why” of what I do.

What is your favorite type of weather and why?

Winter weather - be it heavy snow, freezing rain, or cold temperatures. I find it to be one of the most rewarding forecast problems we tackle. In general, I’m just a lover of snow and cannot imagine a more serene place to be than outside after a heavy snow.

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

Sitting here now, I cannot think of a single weather event that sticks out more than any other having worked in Oregon, Nebraska, Alaska, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. Whether it’s severe thunderstorms or blizzards, or in western Nebraska where they can both occur on the same day, they all start competing against each other. If you pressured me into picking one, I’d say that one of the most memorable was the Barrow coastal storm and flood event that occurred in August 2015. Between the height of the waves, the flooding, and the impact on roads and structures, it really was quite an event.

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

Outside of work I spend my time cycling, traveling, or watching movies. Otherwise, I settle down by reading, playing video games, or spending time with my family.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Somewhere near the mountains in the western US, continuing to be a part of the NWS family.