On January 10-13, 2002, Robert M. Chervin interviewed Stephen H. Schneider for the American Meteorological Society Tape Recorded Interview Project. Schneider, a renowned scientist, recounts his early fascination with science, technology, and engineering, beginning with childhood experiments such as building Lionel trains and making soap. His formative years were marked by curiosity and a drive to understand the world, evidenced by his tinkering with electronics, mechanics, and even homemade rockets. Despite a less-than-enthusiastic approach to traditional schooling, Schneider's interest in science blossomed during high school, where his physics teacher, Paul Johnson, encouraged him to pursue engineering.

Schneider details his undergraduate years at Columbia University, where he initially pursued mechanical engineering, driven by a passion for designing racing cars. His academic path was deeply influenced by his mentor, John Chu, a plasma physicist, who guided him toward graduate school in mechanical engineering and computational fluid dynamics. Schneider reflects on the political climate of the 1960s, including his involvement in Columbia’s student protests and the creation of an academic senate, balancing his activism with academic responsibilities.

The interview highlights Schneider's transition to the field of plasma physics, where his work involved computational simulations of magneto-hydrodynamics (MHD). He describes the challenges of learning a new field while simultaneously contributing to cutting-edge research. Schneider’s narrative also touches on his commitment to environmental advocacy, shaped by early experiences with nature and the destructive consequences of urban development.