Meet Our Staff: Q&A with Warning Coordination Meteorologist Aaron Woodward

1. How did you become interested in meteorology?

I was originally scared of thunderstorms, particularly lightning, but after a visit to my grandma's house, where I found an old VHS series titled "Fury on the Plains", and after watching that series multiple times over, I was hooked on severe weather and storm chasing.

2. What led you to a career in the National Weather Service (NWS)?

A career in the National Weather Service was always my main goal. After undergrad the agency was in a bit of a hiring freeze which prompted me to pursue options in the USAF. I became a weather forecaster in the USAF in 2012 and at the conclusion of my time in service I was able to secure a meteorologist forecaster position in the NWS in 2016.

3. What is it about the NWS that makes you want to work here?

It always comes down to the people, whether that is the local community or our partners. Having the opportunity to get plugged into the community and communicate the weather to ensure safety is what drove me to this position.

4. What advice do you have for someone who wants to become a meteorologist?

Have a solid background in math and science. Don't feel discouraged if you do NOT have a strong background in coding. If you don't have the interest in coding, then think about diving into some social science fields or graphical design applications. I would also suggest pursuing a public speaking course as well.

5. How did you end up in Rapid City?

My family and some college friends vacationed in Rapid City a few years prior to me getting a position at the Rapid City forecast office. We were all amazed with the landscape and scenery on that trip, so when the dream position became available at the Rapid City WFO I immediately jumped on it and eventually was hired for the position.

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

May 23, 2008. I was taking a summer class called, "The Severe Weather Field Experience" which is a glorified way of saying, storm chasing! We were chasing in Kansas where we intercepted the EF4 tornado that affected areas near Quinter, KS. This is the same tornado that is well documented as it was crossing the interstate. We ended up catching another tornado near Garden City, KS later that afternoon. During the early evening, we ended up driving through Greensburg, KS which just the year prior was wiped out by a large EF5 tornado.

7. What are your interests outside of work?

Avid bowler, usually do leagues and tournaments. Disc golf, cooking and gardening. I am getting into coaching ice hockey and photography.

8. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Probably still the Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the Rapid City, SD forecast office.