Meet Our Staff: Q&A with Electronics Technician Nathan Rambo

1. How did you become interested in electronics?

My interest in electronics started early in my life, but my knowledge and passion for electronics came from my time in the Marine Corps.

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

After nine years in the Marines, my family and I moved back to Texas to pursue another passion, woodworking. But due to a bad economy, I needed to find another line of work--one that would be steady. So I fell back on my training from the service and pursued a job with the U.S. government. While scrolling through USAJobs, I found a vacancy for a radar technician with the National Weather Service, and I applied to all 13 open positions.

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

I enjoy the fact that I am not stuck at a desk all day. My work as an electronics technician (ET) requires me to travel and get out into the elements.

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

The military is about the only way to go. I only know of three ETs in the weather service that did not get their start through the military. If you specifically want to be a Doppler Radar Technician, then join the Air Force. They are the only branch that has a Doppler Radar. However, basic radar knowledge can be learned through any branch.

5. How did you end up in Rapid City?

Out of the 13 places I applied to, I was lucky enough to be offered two positions. Out of the two, Rapid City was where my family and I felt we should be.

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

While stationed in Pensacola, FL, I was selected as one of the "lucky" ones who got to stay behind for a clean-up working party after Hurricane Katrina. Stuck in an old Navy building with no power while one of the largest storms on record made landfall is something that I will always remember.

7. What are your interests outside of work?

I have two daughters, 10 and 12, and for the most part, their interests become my interests. When they don't keep me busy, I do enjoy woodworking and the occasional golf outing.

8. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I see myself working for the National Weather Service of Rapid City, SD.