Mary Glackin

Mary Glackin was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1954. She embarked on her academic journey at the University of Maryland, College Park, where she pursued a degree in computer science with a concentration in atmospheric sciences.[2] Her educational background provided her with a strong foundation in both technology and meteorology.[2]

Glackin was previously Senior Vice President for Science and Forecast Operations at The Weather Company,an IBM Business. She retired from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in 2012 as the Deputy Under Secretary for Operations,[3] after working in various roles in the organization for 34[4] years, including in the National Weather Service[5] and the US Global Change Research Program.[2]

Mary Glackin's career in meteorology began with her role as a computer specialist with the National Weather Service (NWS) in 1977.[5] Over the years, she climbed the ranks within the NWS, showcasing her dedication and expertise. She held various positions within the organization, including meteorologist and program manager for the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS).[6] Her work in the NWS allowed her to gain valuable insights into the field of weather forecasting and information systems.

Glackin's career reached new heights when she joined the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). She held several significant leadership positions within NOAA, including:

• Deputy Assistant Administrator for the National Satellite Data and Information Services (1998–2002).[7]
• Assistant Administrator for NOAA's Office of Program Planning and Integration (2002–2007).[7]
• Acting Assistant Administrator for Weather Services and Director of NOAA's National Weather Service (June–September 2007).[7]
• Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere (2007–2012).[7]

As the Deputy Under Secretary, she was responsible for the day-to-day management of NOAA's atmospheric services, research, coastal, and marine stewardship. Her role was pivotal in overseeing the agency's $4.9 billion operations and ensuring its efficiency.[7]

Mary Glackin has actively participated in the American Meteorological Society (AMS), a premier organization in the field of meteorology. Her involvement with AMS includes serving as a Fellow and receiving the prestigious Brooks Award in 2004. She has also contributed to various AMS committees and initiatives.[8]

After her retirement from NOAA in 2012, Mary Glackin continued to make significant contributions to the field of meteorology.[8] She joined The Weather Company, an IBM Business, where she served as the Vice President for Weather Business Solutions. In this role, she oversaw forecasting science and operations, product development, and client relationships. Her work extended to collaborating with national and international government agencies, academia, and private-sector providers in the weather enterprise.[9]

Throughout her career, Mary Glackin received numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Rank Award (2001), Charles Brooks Award for Outstanding Services to the American Meteorological Society, NOAA Bronze Medal (2001), Federal 100 Information Technology Manager Award (1999), NOAA Administrator's Award (1993), and the Department of Commerce Silver Medal Award (1991). These accolades underscore her exceptional contributions to the field of meteorology and geospatial science.[9]

Mary Glackin's career trajectory exemplifies her commitment to advancing meteorology, geospatial science, and weather-related services. Her leadership roles in NOAA and her ongoing involvement in the meteorological community continue to impact weather forecasting and related fields positively.