About

In his many years working with Atmospheric Science students, Dr. Paul Roebber saw the need for students to have not only a strong education in meteorology, but the need for meaningful hands-on experience. The challenge?  Most weather internships are not paid and are limited in their hands-on application, leaving students graduating with a degree, but little experience to compete for jobs coming out of college.

Innovative Weather, a partnership between the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and organizations in Wisconsin and beyond, was the result of his concern. Internships at Innovative Weather took Atmospheric Science students, learning theory and application in the classroom, and trained them to work in a professional forecast operation. Students were given paid opportunities, in a 24/7 weather office environment, to prepare forecast risk assessments and communications for real-world clients across a variety of industries. Access to UWM’s academic Atmospheric Science Department ensured excellence in training, and full time leadership at Innovative Weather procured excellence in professional development for our students.

In its lifetime, Innovative Weather served over 100 students, placing many of them in the very competitive field of professional meteorology, as well as other STEM fields. Our alumni network spans through private companies, research institutions, education, the National Weather Service, and more.

After an illustrious 17 year history, Innovative Weather closed its doors on April 30th, 2024. It’s closure was the consequence of factors tied to Wisconsin state funding of the Universities of Wisconsin and its campuses. Many steadfast students and partners saw the program through to its final operational dates, ensuring that the program finished on a confident note.

The lasting legacy of Innovative Weather is one of servant leadership, experiential learning, and commitment to excellence. This program brought value to the students, the University, its partners, and the community at large.