10 Within 10 Recognition

Location: Warsaw, Indiana
Career: Meteorologist, National Weather Service

Megan is a weather forecaster for the National Weather Service. She has been influential in the development of the Great Lakes Current Incident Database, which helps the public and emergency responders become aware of the most dangerous times and places to be in the water. In recognition of her exemplary partnership efforts, the Michigan Sea Grant awarded Megan the 2014 Van Snider Award.

What is the best resource young people have to contribute to the world?

“Coming out of college and applying all they have learned, combined with the energy and focus that comes with starting a career, can be a great resource.”

What motivates you?

“Nothing makes me work harder than knowing someone will be positively impacted by my work.”

What is your proudest achievement so far?

“Working to develop the Great Lakes Current Incident Database. In recent years, the data has been used to place rescue equipment on beaches across the Great Lakes, develop messaging to reach high-risk groups and improve forecast methods at the National Weather Service. It’s been really rewarding to see something I worked so hard on be used to do things that will end up saving lives.”

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

“My mom always said to us, ‘You can be anything you want to be – don’t let anyone stop you.”

Why is it important for you to stay connected to CMU?

“I want to be an encouragement to students at CMU. Students in the classes ahead of me were always a great inspiration, a great source of encouragement and motivation for me.”?