Meteorology is the study of the Earth’s atmosphere, weather, and climate. Meteorologists work with complex computer models to understand and predict short-term weather and long-term climate changes. Meteorologists may work in a number of subfields that fall into these 4 categories:

• Weather Forecasters work to predict and tailor weekly or daily forecasts for specific areas.
• Atmospheric Researchers work to understand how the atmosphere works and is interconnected with water on Earth. They often work hand in hand with Oceanographers, Hydrologists, and Environmental Scientists.
• Climatologists work to understand historical weather patterns and predict future climate changes.
• Forensic Meteorologists work to determine how the weather played a role in a specific event or crime.  

The U.S. government is the largest employer of meteorologists. Most work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service, or The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). In the private sector they may work for consulting firms, airlines, television or radio stations.