Submitted for your consideration: the AMS Certified Consulting Meteorologist program

As a result of their public visibility broadcast meteorologists may often be asked to provide consultation services in addition to their broadcast responsibilities. The American Meteorological Society's Certified Consulting Meteorologist designation is granted to those who meet the high standards of technical competence, character, and experience for those who provide advice in meteorology to the public. It complements the Society's Certified Broadcast Meteorologist designation, which is granted to broadcast meteorologists who meet established criteria for scientific competence and effective communication skills in their weather presentations.

The author, who is currently serving as the CCM Board chair, will suggest that the attendees consider applying for the CCM designation.

A common misconception is that the CCM program is intended for private sector meteorologists, particularly those working in the areas of environmental quality and forensic meteorology. In fact, CCMs can be found in private practice, as experts in private industries, in academia, and in government agencies. Some CCMs are full-time consultants while other undertake consulting over and above their regular employment

The qualifications for CCM are centered around the fundamental characteristics of knowledge, experience, and character. Qualification on the basis of experience requires a comprehensive, although not necessarily a detailed, understanding of the main aspects of meteorological. The role of specialization is recognized, but the dangers of all depth and no breadth need to be clearly recognized. Because the work of a consulting meteorologist is to some extent in the nature of applied research, an understanding of research and the principles of scientific method, as well as demonstrated competence in applying these principles, is desirable.

Qualification on the basis of experience requires a minimum of five years of work at the professional level in meteorology or a related field. Substitution of a postgraduate degree below the doctorate is permitted for one year of experience, and substitution of the doctorate degree in meteorology for up to two years is allowable.

Qualification on the basis of character requires the candidate to demonstrate that he or she maintains those traits for conduct complying fully with the Society's Guidelines for Professional Conduct and applying them generally in public contacts.

To earn the CCM credential, a meteorologist must apply for the designation, be recommended by three associates, pass a stringent written examination, and pass an oral examination before a national or regional board of examiners. All CCM applicants are also required to submit a written report that demonstrates their meteorological analytical skill and their ability to communicate with non-technical clients. Similar to the CBM program, CCMs must earn professional development points to maintain their certification.

Broadcast meteorologists who are committed to raising the standards of their profession, and who provide advice and services at a professional level, should regard themselves as candidates for certification as consulting meteorologists.