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Tracking the Storm: How º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver Prepared Matt Jones to Protect Communities

Man in a suit and tie smiles for the camera

¹ó´Ç°ùÌıMatt Jones ‘11, weather was never just a subject — it was a lifelong calling. Drawn to the science of the atmosphere from an early age, Jones choseÌıº£½ÇÖ±²¥ DenverÌınot only for its strong meteorology program, but for its accessibility and proximity to family and friends. That decision set him on a path from the classroom to the broadcast studio, where he now plays a critical role in keeping communities informed and safe.Ìı

Academic Excellence in the ClassroomÌı

At º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver, Jones thrived as he moved into advanced coursework inÌıatmospheric science, particularlyÌısynopticÌımeteorologyÌıandÌıthermodynamics. These demanding courses sharpened his technical skills and deepened his understanding of how weather systems evolve and impact daily life.Ìı

He creditsÌıDr. Sam NgÌıandÌıDr. Keah SchuenemannÌıas instrumental mentors who challenged him academically while supporting his professional goals. Their instruction exemplified º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver’s commitment to high-quality, applied learning — preparing students not just to graduate, but to excel in competitive fields.Ìı

Learning by DoingÌı

A defining moment in Jones’ º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver experience came through an internship atÌıKMGH, where he worked alongside legendary Denver meteorologistÌıMike Nelson. The opportunity offered real-world exposure to broadcast meteorology and confirmed that translating complex science into clear, actionable information was his future.Ìı

That hands-on experience reflects º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver’s mission to connect education with opportunity, ensuring students gain practical skills that lead to upward mobility.Ìı

From First Forecast to Chief MeteorologistÌı

After graduating in 2011, Jones launched his broadcast career atÌıKRTV in Great Falls, Montana, then moved through markets inÌıNew York, Missouri, Wisconsin, andÌıultimatelyÌıLouisiana. Today, he serves asÌıChief Meteorologist at KSLA in Shreveport, overseeing weather operations across Louisiana, Texas,ÌıOklahomaÌıand Arkansas.Ìı

In this role, Jones leads severe weather coverage during tornado outbreaks and tropical events, produces forecasts across television and digital platforms, and serves as a trusted voice during life-threatening conditions.Ìı

A Career Rooted in Public ServiceÌı

For Jones, the most rewarding part of his job is explaining the forecast in ways viewers can understand and act on. His work embodies the public-facing impact of an º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver education — using scientificÌıexpertiseÌıto serve communities and protect lives.Ìı

“My goal is always to keep the community safe,†he said.Ìı

Advice for the Next GenerationÌı

Jones encourages current students to go beyond the classroom. “You need more than good grades,†he said. “Real-world experience — especially internships — is essential.â€Ìı

His journey underscores the value of º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver’s mission: expanding access to education, delivering academic excellence, and empowering graduates to build meaningful, impactful careers — even when the forecast is uncertain.Ìı