October 2, 2024
September 20 the NOAA Center for Weather and Climate Prediction (NCWCP) hosted an influx of students from ten local colleges, universities and secondary schools to introduce them to career opportunities within NOAA. National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Deputy Director Adria Schneck was the force that started NOAA Career Day to help build relationships with the community that identify and nurture young talent, particularly from underrepresented communities.
Objectives included introducing students to a variety of career paths available at NOAA and building a local hiring pipeline. By bringing in NOAA employees from many different areas and focuses, students were exposed to the range of opportunities within the agency, from research and operations to administration and more. Qualifications required for various roles were also discussed so students would see that there are opportunities for many different careers, and begin planning their education to prepare them to enter careers that excite and inspire them.
With its strong presence in Prince George’s County and the larger DMV community, NOAA understands that there is a great opportunity to identify and nurture local talent. Showcasing different careers and providing networking time with NOAA employees helps to create a pathway for future recruitment and career development within NOAA.
The NOAA National Weather Service (NWS) NCEP conceived Career Day, but quickly recognized that including the other NOAA organizations located in the NCWCP would expose the students to a broader range of career possibilities, and ultimately be of greater benefit to NOAA. Air Resources Laboratory (ARL) scientist Lacey Holland jumped at the chance to join the organizing committee from the beginning. She acted as ARL’s representative during the planning, helped draft the agenda and gave feedback on the promotional products for the day. She also helped organize the student tours of ARL’s laboratory facility.