About NWSEO
NWSEO
is the labor organization and professional association that represents
4,000 employees of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
in the U.S. Department of Commerce, including:
- The forecasters, technicians and support personnel of the National Weather Service, the nation's official source for the weather forecasts and warnings;
- The technicians who track and command the nation's weather satellites from Wallops Island, Virginia and Suitland, Maryland;
- The civilian crew of the "Hurricane Hunter" aircraft base in Lakeland, Florida;
- The attorneys in NOAA's Office of General Counsel, who are responsible for enforcing laws that protect the nation's environment and natural resources;
- The hurricane researchers and other scientists and support personnel at the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory in Key Biscayne, Florida.
Donate to the work of NWSEO. Email NWSEO Bookkeeper Emily Roy at e.roy@nwseo.org for more details.
NWSEO is the only organization with the ability to lobby Congress and the Administration to preserve NWS jobs, promote better working conditions and career promotions for NWS, and participate in collective bargaining.
NWSEO Membership Recruitment
There is strength in membership. Click here for information and tools to keep NWSEO strong and effective.
To JOIN NWSEO - Membership Form 1187
Visit the Why I Joined NWSEO page to learn why other members have joined our professional organization.
The Value of Membership Newsletter
Top 20 NWSEO Accomplishments - Powered by Membership
Top Ten Reasons to Join NWSEO in 2018
NWS Health & Wellness Rebate Information:
February 20, 2019 Four Winds Newsletter
Attachment Form A
Attachment Form B
Form A must be submitted between January 1, 2019 and March 31, 2019 to receive benefits for 2019.
Form B must be submitted between January 1, 2019 and March 31, 2019 for reimbursement for the year 2018.
*NWSEO MEMBER SPOTLIGHT*
NWSEO Secretary/Treasurer, Eastern Region Chairman David Solano
(June 17, 2020) Congratulations to our very own, David Solano, who is retiring later this month with nearly 31 years of service with the National Weather Service. Mr. Solano has served as an active leader, supporter, recruiter, and organizer of NWSEO and has worked with members from all over the country. He took a moment to share his experiences as a leader of our organization.
Dave, when did you begin your Hydro-Meteorologist career? I began my Meteorology career back in 1984 upon graduating from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Meteorology. Upon graduation, I went to New York working for private industry until late 1989. It was in New York that I met and then happily married my wife Linda, and we just celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary this past September 2019. (More)
NWSEO Steward Leah Pope
(May 29, 2020) Please meet NWSEO Steward Leah Pope, Hydrologist at Missouri Basin River Forecast Center (MBRFC) in Pleasant Hill, MO.
What brought you to the NWS and NWSEO? My background is in civil engineering / water resources. I have a master’s degree in water management and hydro-informatics. I am fascinated in the math and science behind water and how it applies to the real world to help save lives.
(More)
NWSEO Member Eleanor Vallier-Talbot
(May 11, 2020) Congratulations to long-time NWSEO Member Eleanor Vallier-Talbot who recently retired after 35 years at NWS. Before she soars into this new chapter in her life, she took a moment to share her experiences in being a member of our organization. Eleanor joined NWSEO during her stay in Portland, ME late 1997.
“It's been a great experience being an NWSEO member. When I joined, I didn't realize how important having a union representing NWS employees would be, especially for the operational field forecasters like myself. Having a proactive union like the NWSEO has proven, time and again, to be vital as the primary representative with NWS management. Thank you, NWSEO, for representing ME and all the members, in protecting our jobs and livelihoods.” -Eleanor Vallier-Talbot (More)
NWSEO Member Jamie Morrow
April 17, 2020 PDF copy
Please meet NWSEO Member and Meteorologist James (Jamie) Morrow of NWS Raleigh (RAH), NC. NWSEO would like to congratulate Jamie on recently being selected to fill the NWS XO/PCO position at NWS HQ beginning in early May of 2020.
Where are you from originally, and what sparked your interest to pursue a career in weather?
I originally grew up in King George, Virginia, a small farming county located in the tidal basin of Virginia, known mainly for its abnormally large landfill full of Bald Eagles and its historical role of housing John Wilkes Booth days before his eventual shoot-out demise. I first became fascinated with weather after witnessing numerous hurricanes, summer thunderstorms, and experiencing first-hand the aftermath of the 2002 Laplata, Maryland tornado. This led to me pursuing a Meteorology degree at Virginia Tech where I received a B.S. in Meteorology and B.A. in Geography.(More)
NWSEO Member Alex Hoon
January 15, 2020 PDF copy
Please meet NWSEO Member and Senior Meteorologist, IMET Alex Hoon of NWS Reno, Nevada. NWSEO congratulates Alex, the recipient of a Silver Medal by the Secretary of Commerce for meritorious service on the Carr Fire in Northern California in 2018.
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Houston, Texas...born and raised! I went to Texas A&M University and then I was commissioned as an officer in the US Air Force. After several years as a weather officer in the Air Force, I came to the National Weather Service here in Reno, Nevada, and I've been here ever since.
How long have you worked in NWS?
I've been with the NWS for about 13 years, I've done all my NWS time here in Reno, NV as a journeyman and then as a lead forecaster. My family and I fell in love with the western climate, the beautiful mountains, the great outdoors, and the great community here--not to mention we have a great office with awesome coworkers. (More)
NWSEO Member George Bancroft
November 28, 2019 PDF copy
Please meet long-time NWSEO Member and Forecaster, George Bancroftof College Park, MD and NWS and the National Centers for Environmental Protection (NCEP) Ocean Prediction Center (OPC). You may have met Mr. Bancroft at one of the conventions. He has attended nearly every one as an active participant and a generous contributor to the NWSEO PAC.
How long have you worked in NWS NCEP?
Since 1995 when the old National Meteorological Center in Camp Springs MD was re-organized into the various Centers and Ocean Prediction Center formed. (More)
General Counsel Richard Hirn
(August 27, 2019) Exactly 40 years ago today, our General Counsel Richard Hirn began his legal career as an attorney in the Office of Appeals of the National Labor Relations Board, enforcing working Americans’ collective bargaining rights during the Carter Administration.
He stated, “I am very proud that this was my first job after law school (during which I had the opportunity to work at both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Election Commission. And while at the FEC, I worked on litigation against the National Right to Work Committee with Larry Noble, who eventually became the FEC’s General Counsel).”
Richard started his career with the NWSEO 38 years ago as our General Counsel and became our lobbyist 14 years ago. Richard is one of the pre-eminent Federal sector labor attorneys in the country. We are very lucky to have him representing us.
Congratulations Richard, from the entire NWSEO on your stellar career.
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NWSEO Cares: Medical Leave Donations
NWSEO Members have always been generous with leave donations for co-workers in need.
If you are able to donate leave time, please complete the Donor Leave Transfer Application and submit it to your ASA. If you would like to learn more about the Leave Transfer Program, including a full list of participants, click here. NWSEO thanks you for your generosity and care!
The Four Winds for 2019 are located on the Member News page.
The Four Winds 2010 - 2018 Archives
NWSEO Four Winds Newsletters and Member News Archives
Labor Management Forum
The Department of Commerce Labor Management Forum
National Academy of Public Administration Report for the NWS and U.S. Congress
(May 13, 2013) The National Academy of Public Administration published its report for the National Weather Service and U.S. Congress on its website today. Follow this link to view the full report and Project Results.
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REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED! THANK YOU!
NWSEO National Convention
45th Annual NWSEO Virtual National Convention Online Registration Now Open
(September 4, 2020) The 45th Annual NWSEO Virtual National Convention Registration is now open for all NWSEO Members. The convention is scheduled for Monday, October 12, 2020.
Please register for the NWSEO National Convention at this link:
NWSEO National Convention 2020
The Convention registration period is open through October 1, 2020.
For those who have not attended the NWSEO National Convention before, this year’s virtual convention presents a unique opportunity to learn about the work and accomplishments of our organization. You will hear about upcoming events and opportunities.
Once you complete the above registration form, you will receive a convention login and password in early October that will allow you to access our convention platform. Participants will be able to view convention presentations, access session materials, post live chat comments and participate in polls on October 12, 2020.
Your fellow colleagues may join NWSEO by completing the Membership Form 1187 and sending it to membership@nwseo.org any time during the registration period to be included in this year’s virtual convention.
Thank you for your membership support. We look forward to your participation at the virtual convention! (Convention News)
NWSEO Partnership with HotelStorm Ends
(September 11, 2020) NWSEO recently learned that the HotelStorm platform and business was discontinued June 30, 2020. The partnership of NWSEO and HotelStorm began in September 2016 and was a valuable benefit to many NWSEO Members. It provided exclusive hotel discounts with savings of up to 60% over other online travel agencies. However, we have noticed issues with HotelStorm for the last year.
We apologize for any inconvenience to our members.
NWSEO Membership Director Christy Fox continues to research new options and benefits for our members. If you have ideas or suggestions, please email Christy at membership@nwseo.org. (More)
A Message from NWSEO President Werner
September 10, 2020
Dear NWSEO brothers and sisters,
I hope this message finds you safe, healthy and your spirits strong. Special thanks to all who are helping and assisting our NWS brothers and sisters in Lake Charles as they strive to get their lives and office back in order following the destruction wrought by Hurricane Laura! The intent of this message is to bring you up to date on Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations/ issues and encourage you to participate in some important surveys you have or will be receiving.
Updates on Collective Bargaining Agreements
NWSEO leadership has remained busy working collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations and issues over the past several months. The good news on the negotiations front is that the CBA between the NOAA, National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), Office of Satellite and Product Operations (OSPO) and the NWSEO passed membership ratification, and was signed by both parties this week. The NESDIS/OSPO – NWSEO CBA is now undergoing agency head review. NWSEO would like to recognize NESDIS Chairperson Hugh Sharkey, Kevin Turner (retired), Aaron Savage, Jake Cherrix, Stan Abney, Zach Dornhagen and Arla Tillman for their contributions toward making this new CBA a reality. Congratulations to NESDIS/OSPO bargaining unit employees on their new contract! (More)
NWSEO Member and Husband Save Young Boy from Rip Current
(September 2, 2020) NWSEO would like to recognize member Amy Fritz and her husband, Ryan for their heroic efforts in resuing a young, autistic boy from a rip current while vacationing in North Carolina.
Amy, the National Cooperative Observer Program Manager at NWS Headquarters in Silver Spring, MD and Ryan, CEO of Science of Cardio, were surfing well off the coast of Frisco, NC when they saw a young boy playing in the surf. Knowing the NWS had forecast a moderate to high chance of rip currents in the area, they quickly realized that the boy was not playing; rather, the boy was caught in a rip current and was being carried out to sea. Being both trained in open water rescue, they knew they had to act fast. (More)
NWSEO Membership Drive Update
(August 20, 2020) Congratulations to all NWSEO Recruiters and a tremendous THANK YOU for all of your efforts in sharing the work of NWSEO with your colleagues, making NWSEO stronger each day. The NWSEO Summer Madness Membership Drive ended Saturday, August 15th; however, recruitment is ONGOING! As you know, our membership support is the backbone and core of our organization. Never forget that as a member, you are in a highly effective position to help increase NWSEO membership and keep our professional organization strong. (More)
Tentative NWS Collective Bargaining Agreement Fails Ratification
(August 13, 2020) NWSEO members resoundingly voted down the tentative Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Final results, as certified by the American Arbitration Association (AAA), show contract ratification failed with 91% of voters voting “NO” to the tentative CBA and 9% voting “YES”. This landslide rejection shows clear evidence of the widespread displeasure among NWS employees with the tentative agreement’s terms.
The ratification vote for the tentative CBA was conducted by the AAA from July 28 through August 12. (More)
U.S. Court of Appeals overturns the FLRA’s decision on existing CBA and reaffirms NWS’ unilateral termination of the contract was illegal
– a message from our General Counsel
(August 3, 2020) As you may recall, NWS unilaterally and illegally terminated the existing/2001 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in July 2017. NWSEO took the matter to arbitration and an arbitrator ruled the termination was indeed illegal. The agency appealed to the FLRA, which overturned the arbitrator’s ruling. NWSEO appealed that ruling, and late last week, our NWSEO General Counsel reported that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit overturned the FLRA’s decision and reinstated the arbitrator’s award that the NWS illegally terminated the 2001 CBA. This means that until a new CBA is in effect, the entire 2001 CBA remains in full effect, and the President’s Executive Orders limiting official time and grievance rights cannot be applied to our bargaining unit.(More)
Grievances Filed in Support of ITOs and GS 5-12 METs
(July 31, 2020) This month, NWSEO filed three grievances on behalf of NWS employees involved in hiring panels and ongoing hiring actions, downgrades, and granting appropriate relief including back pay, compensation, and certification.
On July 10, NWSEO filed a grievance on behalf of a Senior Forecaster who was notified that he was selected for the Information Technology Officer (ITO) position but then removed from the certification due to the employee’s “lack of experience in the 2210 occupational series” and “no prior positions as IT Specialist.”
In the past, NWS employees could crossover to the ITO position from different positions within NWS. Also, Meteorologists (series 1340), Hydrometeorological Technicians (series 1341), Electronics Technicians (series 0856) and Hydrologists (series 1315) have qualified and were selected for ITO positions without having previously held an IT Specialist position. A 2020 NWSEO survey of current ITOs indicated that 66 percent of respondents were selected competitively from 1340 series applicants, with only five having IT-related degrees. This survey also showed that only 17 percent of ITO selections were previously IT Specialists.(More)
House Appropriations Committee approved significant funding increases for NOAA and the NWS, and rejected all proposed personnel cuts affecting NWSEO represented employees.
(July 16, 2020 pdf) The President had proposed to eliminate 365 positions in the National Weather Service, and $39.1 million in associated funding, for FY 2021. This included 248 forecasters, 84 Information Technology Officers, 8 employees at the National Centers for Environmental Prediction’s Climate Prediction Center, and 25 physical scientists and other staff at the two tsunami warning centers, which the President had proposed to consolidate. In addition, the President also proposed to eliminate 20 researchers at the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research’s (OAR’s) Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) in Key Biscayne, FL who are also represented by NWSEO, as well as $5.1 million in associated funding.
All the above-mentioned personnel and funding cuts were rejected as a result of NWSEO’s lobbying efforts - 385 positions and $44.1 million in associated funding in total. (More)
2020 NWSEO Convention Goes Virtual
July 11, 2020 pdf copy
(July 11, 2020) After much consideration about concerns for the safety of our members during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will not be holding our 2020 NWSEO Convention as planned in Las Vegas, NV. Instead, we will evolve and hold our first ever virtual Convention, scheduled for October 12-13, 2020. Details will be forthcoming. For those members who have earned recruitment and travel incentives in 2020, your travel incentives will rollover to the 2021 Convention.
The Vegas experience still awaits our group as our 2021 NWSEO National Convention will be held at Caesar’s Palace on Monday, October 18 and Tuesday, October 19, 2021. Mark your calendars and join us in Las Vegas.
The fun doesn’t stop there! The 2022 NWSEO National Convention will be held at Harrah’s in New Orleans, LA on Monday, November 7 and Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Take advantage of this opportunity to catch up with your NWSEO friends and family and join us. (Convention News)
Federal Service Impasses Panel (FSIP) Issues Ruling on New
NWS Collective Bargaining Agreement
July 9, 2020 pdf copy
(July 9, 2020) The FSIP has issued its decision on the “impasse” between the NWS and NWSEO over the new NWS Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Both parties were notified of this decision late yesterday. The decision can be read in its entirety here.
In short, the FSIP ruled against NWSEO on 23 articles, ruled in NWSEO’s favor on three articles and inserted their own language into two articles. (More)
NWSEO files suit against FSIP, says appointment violates Constitutional requirement for Senate Confirmation
June 18, 2020 pdf copy
(June 18, 2020) On June 15, the National Weather Service Employees Organization filed suit in Federal court in Washington, D.C. challenging the authority of the Federal Service Impasse Panel to impose contract terms on NWSEO and the NWS. The suit alleges that the FSIP has no legal authority because its ten members, all of whom were appointed by the President, were not confirmed by the Senate, as required by the Appointments Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Three other Federal employee unions have brought similar legal actions against the FSIP. (More)
NWSEO Congratulates David Solano on his Retirement and Appoints Chris Jacobson as Secretary-Treasurer
June 15, 2020 pdf copy
(June 15, 2020) NWSEO extends a heartfelt congratulations to Secretary-Treasurer and Eastern Region Chairperson David Solano on his upcoming retirement. With nearly 31 years of service with the National Weather Service, Mr. Solano has been an exceptional leader and union officer. He was pivotal in working with management on the formation of the National Water Center (NWC) and he served on many local, regional and national teams to drive the NWS field offices forward. Mr. Solano was a key member of the NWSEO Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) Negotiation Team and the primary author of Contract Connect. (More)
Complaint filed with Department of Commerce Inspector General
(June 10, 2020) NWSEO was recently informed that a complaint has been filed with the Department of Commerce (DOC) Office of Inspector General (OIG), regarding three violations of DOC policy by the Meteorologist-in-Charge at the Weather Forecast Office in Jackson, Mississippi. (More)
NWS Employee Allie Burand Needs Medical Leave Donations
You Can Help by Donating Leave via the Voluntary Leave Transfer Program
June 9, 2020 pdf copy
(June 9, 2020) Ms. Allie Burand, Meteorologist at the Alaska Aviation Weather Unit (AAWU) is in need of medical leave donations. NWSEO Members have always been generous with annual leave donations for co-workers in need. If you are interested in donating leave for Allie, you may complete OPM form 630A. Please make sure the form is signed by you and Allie Burand is named as the recipient. Completed donation forms can be submitted by email to wfmo.vltp@noaa.gov.
(Read full story in Member News)
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