Tammie Souza's Blog

Wednesday June 25th I'm off to Denver for the annual AMS (American Meteorological Society) Broadcast Meteorology Convention.

I know it may sound like a total "Weather Geek" fest, and it is, but I'm looking forward to visiting with colleagues from other cities and exchanging ideas. There's always something new in the world of weather. New technology, new information, new ideas.

I am also on the board of broadcast meteorology and that means a few extra duties while I'm there. One of my duties is evaluating the tapes of fellow meteorologists applying for their AMS or CBM Seal of approval. I do this year round.

When a meteorologist applies for their seal they must have already worked in weather for a number of years. They must meet rigid educational requirements plus take an in-depth test about the weather and the atmosphere. The final phase is the evaluation of their on air work. It's three consecutive days of weather casts from actual newscasts on television. The applicants send tapes and DVDs to the panel I am on.

Broadcast Meteorologists across the nation have so many different styles. It's enjoyable to watch their submitted work. I always try to balance my critiques with positive and constructive notes. Many times a meteorologist will have to submit for an evaluation 2 or 3 times before finally passing and receiving that all important seal. 

The entire seal process can take more than a year.

I also am on the NWA (National Weather Association) Board of Broadcast Meteorology and evaluate applicants for the NWA seal of approval. This requires the same type of application process.

So, the next time you watch a meteorologist with that AMS or CBM or NWA seal next to their name you'll know they have completed a very lengthy and difficult process to prove they are qualified as a Broadcast Meteorologist and qualified to deliver a forecast to you.

In case you are wondering, all of us here at FOX Chicago have been awarded one or more of those all important CBM / AMS / NWA seals.

See you back here on Monday.

As always have a great week!

Tammie