Des Moines, Iowa — A native of the “Show-Me State” is Iowa’s new state climatologist. Justin Glisan grew up in Saint Charles, Missouri and says his interest in climate science started at an early age – with a little lecture from his father.
The 35-year-old Glisan HAS learned a lot about weather. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in atmospheric science at the University of Missouri and a PhD at Iowa State University in 2012. Since then, he’s worked as a researcher at ISU. Glisan is now Iowa’s third state climatologist. He replaces Harry Hillaker, who recently retired after three decades in the position. Glisan is hoping to hold the job for a similar amount of time.
The state climatologist monitors weather activity to compile weekly, monthly, and annual reports about precipitation totals, shifts in temperatures, and other climate-related data. According to Glisan, Iowa is one of the more exciting places in the country to monitor changes in the climate.
The state climatologist’s office is part of the Iowa Department of Agriculture. Glisan lives in Des Moines with his wife, Maggie, who is Senior Food Editor for Better Homes and Gardens magazine.
