NEWS
WTEN meteorologist brings science, life lessons to CHS
April
14, 2011 - What could have been a simple discussion of the science
of meteorology turned into a life lesson Thursday for dozens of CHS
Earth Science and Science Research students who listened as WTEN
Chief Meteorologist Steve Caporizzo spoke of the importance of
finding your life's passion and turning that passion into a career.
Caporizzo's passion for the science of weather was on display as the the longtime local meteorologist described how his childhood fascination with snow led him to study meteorology in college in Vermont and to eventually make a career of it.
"Whatever you have as an interest, grab on to it," said Caporizzo. "I did and I have to say it's kind of neat to be doing something I dreamed of doing when I was a kid. I'm still fascinated by weather. I'm still reading all I can about it and I'm still learning.
"There's nothing like having a job you love," he added.
Caporizzo spoke to the students for nearly an hour, showing them behind-the-scenes photographs of what it's like to work in a television studio and discussing the ways technology has advanced the field of weather forecasting. He pointed out that as a result of new technology, such as Doppler radar, forecasting has become more accurate and lives have been saved as a result.
"Fifty years ago, more than 200 people a year died in tornadoes," said Caporizzo. "Today, with the help of technology, that number has been reduced to about 50 per year, and that's with a population that has doubled."
Click here or on photo to view slideshow.
The WTEN meteorologist closed out the hour with a question and answer session in which the students queried Caporizzo about the hours he works (10-12 most days); about his favorite pasttime (fishing); and about his on-air colleague, Elisa Streeter (they are good friends). One student asked if Caporizzo considered other local meteorologists to be his "arch rivals". He replied, "Quite the contrary. We are on very friendly terms because we all share a passion for earth science and weather."
