In recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), the American Meteorological Society is spotlighting the amazing careers and contributions of a few of our Latinx/Hispanic community members.
This week, we hear from Anthony Yanez!
What is your current work? Can you tell us a bit about it?
I recently became the Chief Meteorologist at KPRC 2, the NBC affiliate in Houston, Texas. This has been a long-time goal to reach, and it finally happened July 1st.
What was an important moment in your early career?
My career began in the sports department in my hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. After several years, I transitioned to the newsroom as a reporter and anchor. A pivotal moment in my career occurred when my boss saw a potential in me in another department. He said, “You have a better personality for weather. I’m moving you to the weather department.” His insight led me to discover a love for meteorology. Under the mentorship of Mike Hernandez, the chief meteorologist at the time, I received invaluable guidance that significantly shaped my career.
What is something you’re proud of professionally?
A highlight of my career was receiving the 2022 AMS Award for Excellence in Science Reporting by a Broadcast Meteorologist. My work in Los Angeles, covering wildfires, oceans, and climate issues, was both impactful and deeply fulfilling.
Are there ways in which your Hispanic/Latinx heritage has influenced or enriched your career?
As a Hispanic professional, I take pride in serving as a role model for the rapidly growing Hispanic community in the United States. During school visits, I make it a point to tell students that if I can achieve success, they can too. Additionally, my involvement with the Hispanic community in Houston, including serving as a past president of the Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals, enables me to support aspiring journalists by awarding college scholarships to deserving students.
Learn more about Anthony Yanez here.
Photo at top courtesy of Anthony Yanez.