We got a chance to interview the meteorologist, Frank Billingsley, who works at News 2 Houston KPRC. He was very kind in answering our questions by e-mail.
What level of education is needed? What background is helpful?1. How do you start a career in meteorology?
I received a degree in journalism from Washington and Lee University in 1982. I then entered the TV Weather business because I was offered a job in that field! I studied through correspondence at Pennsylvania State University, the United States Dept. of Agriculture, and Mississippi State University. I received my certification in Broadcast Meteorology from Miss. State in 1989 and the American Meteorological Society's Seal of Approval in 1989.
2. Do you have to receive a certain degree to be a meteorologist?You need to have a degree in meteorology.
3. Do you enjoy your job? If so, what is your
favorite part?
I love my job. I find it challenging to predict weather and I think it's important to warn people of dangerous weather.
4. What is the hardest part of your job?Getting the forecast right!5. What do you have to do to become a chief meteorologist?
Usually you work your way up from smaller towns to bigger towns and from lower positions like weekends or mornings. Then, if you are lucky and good, someone offers you the job.
6. What's the average amount somebody as a meteorologist makes in a year?In a small town around forty thousand, in a medium sized town around eighty thousand, in a large town anywhere from 150 to 300 thousand. In New York City, they make around half a million dollars!
7. Over the last few years has weather forecasting become easier or harder?
Easier because Doppler 2000 can tell us more about where it is raining and if tornadoes are possible.
8. How far can Doppler 2000 scan? How has this
changed weather forecasting?
250 miles---see question 7.
Thank-You for taking the time to look at this e-mail.
You are welcome! Good luck with your web-site!
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