Following my dream to become a meteorologist

What sparked your interest in meteorology?  

I first developed an amateur interest in meteorology when I was an RAF cadet in Lincoln. The highlights of my secondary school years were flying trips to RAF Cranwell and Scampton, which would run based on the suitability of the weather. These opportunities inspired me to research the partnership between the RAF and the Met Office, and by university level, professional meteorology had become my career goal. 

What's your academic background?

I studied BSc Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of Manchester to develop my understanding of atmospheric and environmental evolution on our home planet and beyond. During my degree, I had the opportunity to research a variety of planetary climates and how an atmosphere (or lack of) can influence surface environments. Doing modules in meteorology, planetary evolution and climate change further encouraged me to pursue my desired career pathway. I was honoured to join the Met Office directly after graduating in Summer 2025, and begin my journey to achieve my dream of becoming an operational meteorologist.     

What attracted you to join the Met Office?

I was inspired to apply to join the Met Office by the care the organisation puts into communicating weather information, as well as my love for the weather. To be a meteorologist is more than just understanding changes in the atmosphere; it’s also the ways we make it accessible to different stakeholders and customers. Our forecasting products are made with safety and circumstance in mind, and distributed in formats suitable for the needs of our customers. These range from daily weather forecasts to longer-range climate projections, and even space weather forecasts.  

It’s our value, to live and breathe the work we do, that I believe is most admirable about the organisation. We're aspiring to be driven by the needs of our customers, providing products that deliver the most value to them and support their critical decision making. We support numerous sectors including aviation and transportation services, the media, the armed forces and the general public. 

What does your job involve, and why is it important?  

As a Foundation Operational Meteorologist (FOM), I’m training to become a qualified meteorological observer through a combination of learning on-the-job, and formal training.   

For our first placements, FOMs are stationed across the UK or overseas at MOD and RAF bases, or at our Exeter HQ. During our training period, there are also opportunities for us to travel to other bases and experience different observing locations.  

I’m currently stationed at a Ministry of Defence (MOD) air base, where my main task is to view and record the current conditions such as cloud, visibility and weather type. This is vital information for the forecasters, helping them to determine trends in the weather. Observations also contribute to forecast model development, helping us verify that our predictions are correct. In addition to observing, I enjoy going out to the weather enclosure every morning to take manual rainfall measurements for our climate statistics, and doing the daily barometer checks.   

What do you enjoy most about your role?

My favourite part of my role is what I like to call ‘meerkat-ing.’ As an observer, it is vital for me to notice specific changes in the weather conditions that may warrant a report of current weather conditions outside of routine observing times (known as a ‘special’). This means that, while performing other daily tasks, I need to check regularly for any drastic changes in cloud heights and visibility. This is especially important on convective days when we are expecting showers and thunderstorms. We send these reports to air traffic control, who use them to determine whether conditions are suitable for flying.  

What do you find difficult?

The most challenging part of my role so far has been adjusting into a professional working environment, having only finished formal education earlier this year. Though I felt nervous at first, the Early Careers team were very supportive and willing to answer all of my questions. They have continued to offer guidance throughout the training period, prioritising our development as new starters. I couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming and encouraging transition into the workforce.  

What's your experience been like so far? 

It’s exceeded my expectations: the work is incredibly fulfilling, and it’s great to be able to contribute to a team of such passionate and supportive people.   

I would recommend this role to candidates who like to travel. FOMs operate across the UK and beyond, giving you the chance to explore new places before your post-training, permanent placement. All the way from Lossiemouth to Exeter to the Falkland Islands, you meet so many people among your cohort and at the bases you are stationed at.   

This blog was published in October 2025.