NOAA Warning Decision Training Branch
Within every National Weather Service forecaster, and behind every critical decision-making process, lies the preparation and education provided by the NOAA Warning Decision Training Branch (WDTB). With an expert staff of meteorologists, research associates, graphic designers and IT specialists, WDTB’s mission is to improve warning performance within NOAA's National Weather Service.
WDTB develops and delivers training on the integrated elements of the warning process within a National Weather Service forecast office. This is accomplished by infusing three things into the training operation – science, technology and the critical human factors element.
With an emphasis on accuracy, timeliness and composure in forecasting performance, WDTB provides training through multiple delivery systems. While traditional, in-residence training is still utilized, about ninety percent of training is now done via distance learning, over the Internet.
To assist with learning in the integrated environment, the WDTB developed the Weather Event Simulator, which allows forecasters to “train like you fight” by going through simulated weather events at their own forecast office.
In 1989, the WDTB was established as part of the NEXRAD Operations Training Facility and a year later became the Operations Training Branch. In the fall of 2000, the NWS reorganization officially changed OTB to the Warning Decision Training Branch.
“The goal of WDTB’s training is to prepare National Weather Service decision makers to make effective and correct decisions, providing the maximum warning support to the public.” - Ed Mahoney, Branch Chief
National Weather Center Phone: 405.325.3190 |
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