Jack Beven

Location of Interview
Collection Name

American Meteorological Society Centennial Oral History Project

Description

In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of theAmerican Meteorological Society, interviews were conducted with its many members and leaders.  These interviews serve to recognize the strength, diversity, and accomplishments of the AMS community, from the beginning right up to today.

For more information, visit: ametsoc.org/index.cfm/ams100/oral-histories/

Interviewer
Date of Interview
04-18-2018
Principal Investigator
Audio
Transcript
Biographical Sketch

Jack Beven is a Senior Hurricane Specialist at the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, a position he has held since 1999. Prior to this, he worked as a marine aviation forecaster for five years in the tropical analysis forecast branch. Beven's academic background is in physics and meteorology. He earned his bachelor's degree in physics from Louisiana State University in 1984, followed by a master's degree in meteorology in 1988 and a PhD in 1994, both from Florida State. His interest in meteorology was sparked by his fascination with natural sciences, particularly earth and atmospheric sciences. He credits his high school science teacher, Brother Gordian Udinksy, and his graduate school mentor, Dr. T. N. Krishnamurti, as significant influences in his career. In addition to his forecasting duties, Beven has been involved in teaching and mentoring activities. He has contributed to the annual workshop for meteorologists from around the world, teaching them about tropical meteorology and hurricane forecasting.

Scope and Content Note
This interview with Jack Beven, conducted by Jinny Nathans at the Hurricanes and Tropical Meteorology Conference on April 18, 2018, provides insight into Beven's career and his work at the National Hurricane Center. Beven discusses his academic background, his interest in natural sciences, and his decision to pursue a career in meteorology. He also talks about his early career as a marine aviation forecaster and his current role as a Senior Hurricane Specialist at the NHC. He shares anecdotes about his high school science teacher and his graduate school mentor, both of whom had a significant impact on his career. He also discusses his involvement in teaching and mentoring activities, particularly the annual workshop for meteorologists from around the world. Beven also discusses his work on the GOES-16 satellite and the challenges of learning to use the new technology. He reflects on his first job at the NHC, noting the small size of the operation compared to the demands of the job. The interview concludes with Beven's thoughts on his reputation for asking many questions at conferences and his anticipation of the awards banquet at the conference.


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