Meet Our Staff: Q&A with Electronic Systems Analyst Pat Baye

1. How did you become interested in electronics? 

When I was a kid, my dad would take us to his shop at Ball Research in Boulder, CO, where he was helping to build the star tracker for Skylab. Seeing all the test equipment and getting to go into the clean room really sparked my interest in electronics.

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

I was just out of the Navy and found out that the NWS had an electronics technician job available in Huron, SD, so I applied and got the job.

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

I really enjoy the different challenges, no two days are the same. The people are great; we have an awesome staff at this office.

4. What advice do you have for someone who wants to become an electronic systems analyst?

Be well-rounded in all aspects of electronics, project management, and various operating systems and applications. 

5. What other offices have you worked for across South Dakota?

I started in Huron, and when we closed that office down, I was transferred to the Aberdeen office. I was only in Aberdeen for about 9 months when I got the job here in Rapid City. I have been at this office since 1997.

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

Probably the 2013 October Blizzard. We lost commercial power and were on generator at the radar site in New Underwood for almost 6 days. This was a real challenge because it just so happened that the government was shut down during this snow storm. We had to get snow removal at the radar to have fuel delivered, and with the shutdown, getting funding was difficult.

7. What are your interests outside of work?

Spending as much time as possible with my children and grandchildren. We have to travel to both coasts to see them, so that always makes for great vacations. Also, camping in the hills.

8. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Retired and traveling as much as possible.