Victor J. Proton
Bluefield,USA
Summary
Seasoned senior scientist with 33 years of diverse experience in operational meteorology, training, and office management. Specializing in wildfire and aviation meteorology. Seeking a new challenge to contribute to an organization's objectives. Experienced leader guiding teams, managing projects, and achieving strategic goals. Known for developing efficient processes, maintaining high standards, and fostering a collaborative environment committed to excellence. Excited for opportunities ahead during this transitional phase in my career.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Meteorologist
National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Hanford, CA
01.2024 - 04.2025
- Synthesized surface, upper air, radar, satellite, and numerical weather data, culminating in precise warnings and forecasts. Fortified deep core partnerships through in-person fire weather briefings. Amplified forecast and warning outreach using diverse media channels, including social media, recorded broadcasts, phone briefings, and emails. Identified Incident Decision Support Service (IDSS) opportunities by monitoring social media for hazmat and fire events, subsequently liaising with dispatch offices. Provided direct forecasts for wildfires, aviation, and hydrological partners. Supported Utility Companies, other federal, state, and local government agencies with wildfire forecasts, briefings, and planning. Provided immediate on demand high resolution forecasts for wildfires.
Science and Operations Officer
National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Fairbanks, AK
05.2018 - 08.2022
- Functioned as Principal and Senior Scientific Advisor, ensuring technical excellence in all NWS Fairbanks hydrometeorological products and services. Championed full project lifecycle management, introducing cutting-edge scientific technologies from research to operational forecasting. Pioneered and orchestrated annual office and individual training initiatives. Conceived a comprehensive senior forecaster training module for emerging and established meteorologists. Directed, evaluated, and reported on staff training, aligning with overarching national, regional, and local objectives. Brokered research collaborations with local academic institutions and cooperative entities in atmospheric science. Supervised WFO operational forecasting, adapting to evolving requirements and needs. Strategized budget allocations, emphasizing science and technology imperatives for the office.
- Sculpted Annual Operations Plan (AOP), synchronizing with national, regional objectives, and correlating to individual roles, including wildfires, coastal flooding, river flooding, and volcanic ash hazards.
- Served as Alaskan representative for Science Technology Infusion (STI) Fire Weather programs’ national development consortium.
- Steered Hollings Scholar research program, bridging efforts between WFO Fairbanks and the University of Alaska Fairbank’s Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy (ACCAP) division. Provided supervision and acted as a subject matter expert on wildfire behavior to University Students and their research projects.
- Primary trainer on Aviation forecast programs, products, and aviation weather advisories. Coordinate with meteorologists who serve as OJT trainers to review their training plans and programs. Provide training to new meteorologists and experienced meteorologists on aviation products and services. Evaluate training needs and requirements for the office.
Senior Meteorologist
National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Glasgow, MT
05.2010 - 05.2018
- Synthesized surface, upper air, radar, satellite, and numerical weather data, culminating in precise warnings and forecasts. Fortified deep core partnerships through in-person fire weather briefings. Amplified forecast and warning outreach using diverse media channels, including social media, recorded broadcasts, phone briefings, and emails. Identified Incident Decision Support Service (IDSS) opportunities by monitoring social media for hazmat and fire events, subsequently liaising with dispatch offices.
- Attained FEMA G290 Public Information Officer certification and mastered FEMA courses 100, 200, 700, 800, 201, and 230, bolstering Incident Command System (ICS) expertise for emergency management.
- As the fire weather subject matter expert, I completed S290 and S390. Then trained as a meteorology instructor for S290.
- Mobilized as SS-Emergency Response Meteorologist, ready for deployment.
- Provided direct forecasts for wildfire, aviation, and hydrological partners.
- Wildfire subject matter expert and focal point for wildfire partners. Provided input to wildfire managers AOPs.
- Composed daily and long-range fire weather forecasts.
- Provided immediate spot forecasts for active fires.
- Local union steward representing the office staff working, with management to collaborate on operational needs and agency mission. Representing members for disciplinary action and reviews.
Techniques and Development Meteorologist
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Houston, TX
05.2008 - 05.2010
- Delivered specialized DSS support to NASA aviation sector, focusing on mission control center operations in Houston, Texas. Rendered meteorological DSS insights for International Space Station and international collaborators, concentrating on space vehicle launch and reentry. Cultivated and sustained software integrating NWS, DoD, and NASA network systems. Assumed the pivotal role of an upper-level winds analyst, spearheading expertise during Space Shuttle departures and returns. Supplied mission-critical upper winds forecasts, WRF model outputs, and vital advisories to NASA and DoD, emphasizing real-time lightning monitoring through advanced detection networks.
- Championed as subject matter authority on Marine and Aviation requisites for NASA’s subsequent major mission post-Space Shuttle era.
- Worked in the high paced high risk mission control room during shuttle launches, landings, and orbits serving the flight directors and other disciplines of NASA with immediate analysis and problem solving for the needs of the crew.
Techniques and Development Meteorologist
National Weather Service, Alaska Aviation Weather Unit, Anchorage, Alaska
05.2006 - 05.2008
- The Director of a weather forecast office meteorological operations and meteorologist training and development.
- Primary trainer of general meteorology programs for an Arctic weather office.
- Primary trainer on Aviation forecast programs, products, and aviation weather advisories. Coordinate with meteorologists who act as OJT trainers on their training plans and training programs. Provide training to new meteorologists to experienced meteorologists on aviation products and services. Evaluate training needs and requirements for the office.
- Primary trainer on Volcanic Ash Advisory Programs for the office. Coordinate with meteorologists who act as OJT trainers on their training plans and training programs for volcanic ash.
- Served as the Subject Matter Expert for Alaska and the Pacific regions on the National Fire Weather training and policy teams for the National Weather Service
- Supervised Fire Weather meteorologists and supported wildfire teams with forecasts, briefings, and expert advice on meteorology in the wildfire arena.
- Managed the office programs of fire weather, hydrology, marine, aviation, and public service as the subject matter expert for the focal points as the office senior scientist.
- Managed the training and operational division of the office in all programs for development and daily operations, including wildfires, public hazards, aviation, hydrology, and marine programs.
Senior Meteorologist - Hurricane Specialist
National Weather Service
05.2005 - 05.2006
- Enhanced weather prediction accuracy by implementing advanced meteorological models and data analysis techniques.
- Improved forecast communication by creating visually appealing graphics and concise written reports for media outlets.
- Coordinated with aviation authorities to provide accurate flight-specific weather data, enhancing air traffic safety measures.
- Evaluated new forecasting technologies and methodologies to determine their potential benefits in improving predictions accuracy rates.
- Established a strong professional network by actively participating in national and international meteorology organizations.
- Collaborated with emergency management agencies to develop effective response plans for natural disasters.
- Analyzed and interpreted meteorological data collected by surface and upper-air stations, satellites and radar to develop reports, forecasts and Hurricane outlooks and advisories.
Senior Meteorologist
National Weather Service
07.2003 - 05.2005
- Prepared scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.
- Reviewed information from radar and satellite imagery, weather reporting agencies and air station observations to compile and analyze data for weather reports.
- Streamlined internal processes and workflows by implementing innovative data management solutions, enhancing overall operational efficiency within the meteorology department.
- Developed accurate weather forecasts by analyzing data and using mathematical models and physics to interpret collected information.
- Collected and updated meteorological information and data to develop weather forecasts and report current weather conditions.
- Developed and presented long and short-range weather forecast information every day.
- Established a strong professional network by actively participating in national and international meteorology organizations.
- Mentored aspiring meteorologists through guest lectures at universities, fostering future talent in the field.
Meteorologist
National Weather Service
10.2001 - 07.2003
- Analyzed and interpreted meteorological data collected by surface and upper-air stations, satellites and radar to develop reports and forecasts.
- Studied and interpreted synoptic reports, maps, photographs and prognostic charts to predict long and short range weather conditions.
- Optimized data collection methods by implementing cutting-edge technologies and software applications in daily operations.
- Promoted transparency in weather reporting by maintaining open channels of dialogue with local media outlets during high-impact events.
- Developed comprehensive weather reports for diverse audiences, enhancing understanding and preparedness.
- Improved weather forecasting accuracy by utilizing advanced meteorological tools and data analysis techniques.
Meteorologist
National Weather Service
03.1999 - 10.2001
- Analyzed and interpreted meteorological data collected by surface and upper-air stations, satellites and radar to develop reports and forecasts.
- Promoted transparency in weather reporting by maintaining open channels of dialogue with local media outlets during high-impact events.
- Developed and presented long and short-range weather forecast information every day.
- Developed accurate weather forecasts by analyzing data and using mathematical models and physics to interpret collected information.
- Reviewed information from radar and satellite imagery, weather reporting agencies and air station observations to compile and analyze data for weather reports.
- Collected and updated meteorological information and data to develop weather forecasts and report current weather conditions.
- Used weather balloons to measure wind, temperature, and humidity in upper atmosphere.
- Improved weather forecasting accuracy by utilizing advanced meteorological tools and data analysis techniques.
Meteorologist
National Weather Service
03.1998 - 03.1999
- Prepared scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.
- Developed comprehensive weather reports for diverse audiences, enhancing understanding and preparedness.
- Analyzed and interpreted meteorological data collected by surface and upper-air stations, satellites and radar to develop reports and forecasts.
- Collected and updated meteorological information and data to develop weather forecasts and report current weather conditions.
- Used weather balloons to measure wind, temperature, and humidity in upper atmosphere.
Meteorologist
Weather Data Services
08.1996 - 02.1998
- Used weather balloons to measure wind, temperature, and humidity in upper atmosphere.
Meteorologist
Murray and Trettel, Inc
06.1995 - 08.1996
- Analyzed climate trends and patterns to support long-term planning initiatives for various industries.
- Optimized data collection methods by implementing cutting-edge technologies and software applications in daily operations.
- Developed accurate weather forecasts by analyzing data and using mathematical models and physics to interpret collected information.
- Operated computer graphic equipment to produce weather reports and maps for analysis.
- Developed and presented long and short-range weather forecast information every day.
- Studied and interpreted synoptic reports, maps, photographs and prognostic charts to predict long and short range weather conditions.
- Provided scientific data related to climatological and meteorological concerns to government representatives and research institutions to affect positive policy changes.
- Collected and updated meteorological information and data to develop weather forecasts and report current weather conditions.
- Reviewed information from radar and satellite imagery, weather reporting agencies and air station observations to compile and analyze data for weather reports.
Meteorological Technician
National Weather Service
07.1994 - 07.1995
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Recorded and verified meteorological records
- Monitored and reported airfield weather conditions
Student Meteorologist
National Weather Service
06.1992 - 07.1994
- Analyzed and interpreted meteorological data collected by surface and upper-air stations, satellites and radar to develop reports and forecasts.
- Used weather balloons to measure wind, temperature, and humidity in upper atmosphere.
- Used weather radar to create radar reports for the NWS.
Education
Executive Juris Doctor of Law - Law and Technology Law
Bachelor of Science - Earth Science, Meteorology, and Geography
Skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
- Data analysis expertise
- Legal and scientific documentation
- Extensive experience in aviation forecasting
- Crisis communication expertise
- Proficient in FEMA ICS protocols
- Proficient in geographic information systems
- Wildfire forecasting expertise
- Satellite imagery interpretation
- Wildfire meteorology expertise
- Training program development
- Expert in wildfire meteorology
- Certification in USFS S-190, S-290, and S-390
Awards
National Native American Heritage Month 2020, NOAA, NASA Special Recognition for STS – 119 Flight, NASA, Quality Step Increase Recognition, Alaska Aviation Weather Unit/Volcanic Ash Advisory Center
Affiliations
- Tribal Member, Sault Ste Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians
- Member, American Meteorological Society
- Member, National Weather Association
- Member, Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society
- Station Operator, MADIS Weather Station and Soil Station
- Member, US Constitutional Society
- Member, Concord Student Organization
- Web Master, www.vproton.net and www.mapleleafmeteorological.com
Publications
- GFE – “The Next Generation” 20th AMS conference Seattle, Washington USA.
- The necessity of a coherent and consistent forecast methodology” 20th AMS conference Seattle, Washington USA.
- Development of a link from the 4D cube to the derived sensible weather elements” Local Anchorage WFO white paper.
- Quantitative Precipitation (QPF) as a foundation for Systematic Methodology in GFE” Local Anchorage WFO white paper.
- 2005 Tropical Cyclones Central North Pacific – NOAA Technical Memorandum NWSTM PR-53.
Additional Experience
- Senior Meteorologist and Hurricane Forecaster, National Weather Service, Honolulu, HI
- Junior Meteorologist positions from 1992-2005
Timeline
Senior Meteorologist - National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Hanford, CA
01.2024 - 04.2025
Science and Operations Officer - National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Fairbanks, AK
05.2018 - 08.2022
Senior Meteorologist - National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Glasgow, MT
05.2010 - 05.2018
Techniques and Development Meteorologist - National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Houston, TX
05.2008 - 05.2010
Techniques and Development Meteorologist - National Weather Service, Alaska Aviation Weather Unit, Anchorage, Alaska
05.2006 - 05.2008
Senior Meteorologist - Hurricane Specialist - National Weather Service
05.2005 - 05.2006
Senior Meteorologist - National Weather Service
07.2003 - 05.2005
Meteorologist - National Weather Service
10.2001 - 07.2003
Meteorologist - National Weather Service
03.1999 - 10.2001
Meteorologist - National Weather Service
03.1998 - 03.1999
Meteorologist - Weather Data Services
08.1996 - 02.1998
Meteorologist - Murray and Trettel, Inc
06.1995 - 08.1996
Meteorological Technician - National Weather Service
07.1994 - 07.1995
Student Meteorologist - National Weather Service
06.1992 - 07.1994
Central Michigan University - Bachelor of Science, Earth Science, Meteorology, and Geography
Concord Law School - Executive Juris Doctor of Law, Law and Technology Law
Similar Profiles
Patrick DollPatrick Doll
Lead Forecaster at National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office (WFO)Lead Forecaster at National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office (WFO)
Amanda YoungAmanda Young
Meteorologist/GS-12 at National Weather Service Forecast OfficeMeteorologist/GS-12 at National Weather Service Forecast Office
Jordan SalemJordan Salem
Meteorologist at National Weather Service Forecast OfficeMeteorologist at National Weather Service Forecast Office
Emily LillyEmily Lilly
Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit at WVU Medicine Princeton Community HospitalRegistered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit at WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital
Jennifer PeloubetJennifer Peloubet
24/7 Caretaker for Mom With Dementia at Self24/7 Caretaker for Mom With Dementia at Self