Meet Our Staff: Q&A with Lead Forecaster Eric Helgeson

1. How did you become interested in meteorology?

I was always fascinated by thunderstorms and snow storms. The blizzard of 1979 sealed my interest.

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

NOAA Weather Radio was on at my house when there was bad weather. By the time I was in high school, I started visiting one of the old network radars in Marseilles, IL. That experience solidified my desire to work for the NWS.

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

I love working with the people at our office in Rapid City and all of the other folks we get to talk to, which include individuals, local, state, and federal agencies. Everyone is affected by the weather everyday, and I enjoy hearing their stories about dynamic weather.

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

Math and science, period. The requirements to become a meteorologist are very similar to any STEM-type job. Budding meteorologists need to make contact with local meteorologists in high school, if possible. From there, you can figure out what aspect of meteorology you want to pursue: operational, broadcast, environmental, research, etc.

5. How did you end up in Rapid City?

At my previous office, the Service Hydrologist said the Rapid City area was a beautiful place to live. He was absolutely correct.

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

On May 13, 1995, an F4 tornado hit Raritan, IL when I was working. I surveyed the storm with the Warning Coordination Meteorologist the next day. The devastation was eye-opening. No one died, but one man was thrown 70 yards. His house was destroyed, with many of his hogs strewn across his fields.

7. What are your interests outside of work?

Computers, movies, photography, good music, soccer, wine

8. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

God willing, I will still be in Rapid City predicting the weather. And, watching the sun set on my deck with my wife and a nice bottle of wine.