The workshop was conducted in the Science Spectrum mini-theater, complete with theater style seating and superb audio and visual aids. Topics covered at the workshop included a brief overview of the National Weather Service by MIC Justin Weaver, Low Clouds and IFR by Journeyman Forecaster Ken Widelski, and Thunderstorms and Flight Planning by Jody James, Senior Forecaster and Private Pilot/FAA Volunteer Aviation Safety Counselor.

The workshop was very well received by the 12 pilots in attendance, and most mentioned that they appreciated the effort at WFO Lubbock to reach out to local pilots and were pleased with the quality of the training. Here is a sampling of comments about this workshop –

“What a pleasant surprise yesterday evening was! You guys were great! As a farm boy from West Texas (Clarendon), I always knew that weather was interesting and exciting. You and your associates reminded me of just how much I'm fascinated by the subject. I'm going to dig out some of the old books and will attend another session if you do it again. Thanks!”

“Everyone at the Weather Service seemed to be extremely helpful and willing to work with pilots. The general attitude was very refreshing.”

Missed the workshop? Below you can obtain the powerpoint presentations that were delivered at the Aviation Workshop.

To view the "Low Clouds and IFR Forecasting" powerpoint presentation prepared and presented by Journeyman Forecaster Ken Widelski click here or on the title. Be patient as the presentation is relatively large (~6 MB).

To view the "Thunderstorms and Flight Planning" powerpoint presentation prepared and presented by Senior Forecaster and Private Pilot/FAA Volunteer Aviation Safety Counselor Jody James click here or on the title. Be patient as the presentation is relatively large (~7 MB).

Below are a couple of pictures taken at the workshop -

Ken Widelski, Journeyman Forecaster talks to local pilots about Low Clouds and IFR as part of NWS Lubbock’s Aviation Hazard Awareness training. (Photograph by Gary Skwira)