A Journey Through Meteorology: Ian Shank’s Internship Experience
The Exciting Arrival
Ian Shank, a senior meteorology student, embarked on a transformative journey this summer as he drove to Norman, Oklahoma, to intern at the prestigious National Weather Center (NWC). The excitement was palpable as he anticipated his research role—immersed in the heart of meteorological study. However, Mother Nature had different plans. Dark storm clouds loomed overhead as he and his mother made their way through Arkansas, prompting an unexpected detour.
Their intended stop in Fort Smith took a twist when the hotel lost power due to severe weather. Seeking refuge in a nearby diner, the duo soon found themselves enveloped by ominous storm clouds. Ian felt his "meteorology senses tingling." The situation escalated when tornado warnings blared across nearby phones, leaving Ian pondering, "Oh, so this is what the next three months are going to be like."
A Home Away from Home
Ian’s lifelong fascination with weather can be traced back to a severe storm that altered a family trip to Pennsylvania in 2013. That experience awakened a curiosity about meteorological phenomena, setting him on a path that eventually led him to the NWC. Arriving at this "mecca" of meteorology, Ian was eager to delve into contemporary research, particularly focusing on machine learning models aimed at enhancing storm prediction.
During his internship, Ian worked intensively with data sets to unearth critical signals that signal severe weather events. Collaborating with experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), he learned about the nuances of population density biases in weather data. A highlight of his experience was the observation deck atop the NWC, offering panoramic views of sprawling storm systems, ensuring he truly felt like a part of the meteorological landscape.
Experiencing Severe Weather Firsthand
On June 3, the Norman region was under an enhanced risk for severe weather. Ian was well aware of the advanced storm tracking capabilities at his disposal. What he didn’t expect was to witness not one, but two mesocyclone formations that day—both potential precursors to tornadoes.
In a moment that could easily be described as both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, Ian spotted a lowering of the clouds indicating rotation. Before he knew it, the room full of meteorology professionals he was with erupted into action as tornado warnings were issued. With a giant black wall of clouds chasing him, Ian raced to secure his car in a safer location, suddenly aware of the stark realities of Oklahoma storms—a far cry from the more temperate weather of his home in North Carolina.
Building Connections in Meteorology
The opportunity to intern at the NWC stemmed from Ian’s participation in the American Meteorological Society conference in New Orleans. It was this initial networking that facilitated his connections with the University of Oklahoma and the NWC. Ian’s experience underscored the invaluable role that relationships play in such a specialized field.
Now back at UNC Charlotte, Ian aims to bridge the gap between current students and the professional forays of their predecessors. As the secretary of the Storm Club, he is determined to share the insights and connections he cultivated during his internship. His commitment to enhancing networking opportunities for fellow students reflects a broader ethos of collaboration within the meteorological community.
Embracing the Future of Meteorology
Ian’s journey through stormy weather, rigorous data analysis, and pressing networking has not only fortified his understanding of meteorology but has also shaped his aspirations within the field. His experiences provided him with a profound appreciation for not only the science of weather but also the community that surrounds it, emphasizing growth through collaboration and knowledge sharing. As he prepares for his final year at UNC Charlotte, Ian is excited about the potential to create a more connected and informed meteorology student body, ensuring that the next generation of meteorologists is better equipped to tackle the storms of the future.