About us/Brittany Lockley
Education
Florida Atlantic University, Bachelor's in Multimedia Journalism
Mississippi State University, Master of Science in Broadcast Meteorology
Q&A with Brittany Lockley
About Brittany:
Brittany is no stranger to sunshine, as she was born and raised in Orlando, FL. Brittany is a proud graduate of Florida Atlantic University, where she earned my bachelor’s degree in Multimedia Journalism. Brittany loves to write and the various classes in journalism help to hone her skills in writing and reporting for broadcast, print, and digital news. In May of 2019, Brittany graduated from Mississippi State and obtained her Master's of Science in Broadcast Meteorology. During my time in Starkville, she gained teaching experience as an instructor for the Introduction to News Writing and Reporting class. Brittany joins WeatherNation most recently from FOX 35 in Orlando where she was the weekend evening meteorologist.
What inspired you to become a meteorologist?
Afternoon thunderstorms and hurricanes were always second nature to me growing up. I have witnessed countless hurricanes and tropical storms that sparked my love and passion for meteorology at a very young age. However, it was not until the extreme hurricane season of 2004 and specifically Hurricane Katrina in 2005, that I grasped the severity of these storms. Hurricane Katrina continues to be the driving force behind my goal to inform, educate, and empower people on all aspects of weather.
What was your most memorable weather experience?
Hurricane Charley would have to be my most memorable weather experience. The 2004 season was remarkably busy for Central Florida. I remember missing several weeks from school. The season featured three hurricanes – Charley, Frances, and Jeanne – that all made landfall. Charley sticks out the most because the path went directly across Central Florida. Even though Charley was a compact storm, the hurricane did a lot of damage to Central Florida. This was the first hurricane that I can remember tracking and really preparing for.
Outside of weather, what are your hobbies and interests?
During her downtime, I enjoy dancing, exercising, binge-watching Netflix shows, and spending time with the ones I love. I am a huge fan of the beach. I also love to give back to the community! In the summer of 2018, I worked with the United Way, helping to mentor underprivileged kids in STEM.
Besides your parents, who has influenced you the most in your life?
Who knew this question would be so tough. My family is great! My parents have the biggest influence on my life, and besides them, my sister and brother also play a big role. In the career of meteorology, I am heavily influenced by women who have created a path before me such as Janice Huff, Ginger Zee, Betty Davis, and countless others.
What is a little known fact about you?
I can tap dance. I’ve been dancing since the age of 2.
What are your hopes and dreams for the profession of weather?
I hope technology keeps evolving to a point where severe weather can be detected faster and more efficiently. I dream of one day when there are no fatalities due to severe weather because the communication is there, and information is readily available.