UT Martin has an organization open to all students interested in Meteorology.
The Student Chapter of the American Meteorological Society (SCOTAMS) is a nonprofit organization that aims to bring awareness, growth and knowledge of atmospheric science through research, broadcasting, forecasting and education. SCOTAMS also helps network students with other students and potential employers by hosting guest speakers, social events and academic field trips.
Last year, SCOTAMS welcomed Danielle Breezy, Chief Meteorologist at WKRN in Nashville. Past guest speakers include alum meteorologists and the National Weather Service (NWS) from Paduach. Recently, three meteorologists of Paduach NWS came to UT Martin and talked to SCOTAMS about what they do as NWS meteorologists and what employers are looking for in a meteorologist.
SCOTAMS attends the annual National American Meteorologist conference that happens in the beginning of the year. They also participated in the Southeast Severe Storm Symposium in April at Mississippi State University. SCOTAMS is involved with Severe Weather Awareness Day (SWAD) in Nashville. UT Martin has a booth where they tell people about severe weather safety and how to be safe during severe storms.
After the tornado struck Covington, SCOTAMS volunteered their time to help residents of Covington clean up and recover items. The group donated $250 to the Salvation Army to assist recovery efforts.
Upcoming events are on Saturday, Oct. 21 at the Quad City table. On Friday, Oct. 27, members will be taking a day trip to Paducah NWS.
Aaron Bann, president of SCOTAMS, said that if it were not for the hard work of faulty advisor Timothy Wallace, the cost that the students would have to pay for the trips would be higher. Because of Wallace’s work, trips often are paid for, or students would pay a small price to attend the outings.
Any UT Martin student who is interested in meteorology is welcome to join SCOTAMS. There is an annual $10 membership fee. The American Meteorological Society Student Chapter’s schedule for the rest of the semester is every other Wednesday (Oct. 18, Nov. 1, 15, and 29) from 5-6 p.m. in EPS room 227.
For more information, contact faculty advisor Timothy Wallace at twall18@utm.edu.
