The EPIC contract team has been honored with the prestigious NOAA Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) Team Members of the Year Award for their exceptional contributions to stakeholder engagement. This recognition highlights the team’s efforts in establishing the virtual Earth Prediction Innovation Center (EPIC), a vital platform created to enhance collaboration between NOAA and external communities to improve the nation’s weather forecast system. The EPIC Team’s work has set a new standard for community engagement, fostering innovation that advances forecasting systems and inclusive research environments.
In a statement, Ten Hoeve, the Acting Director of the Weather Program Office (WPO), praised the team’s dedication: “The dedication and collaboration shown by the EPIC Team have truly set a new benchmark in community engagement and innovation. Their work demonstrates how we can collectively drive progress that enhances our forecasting systems and builds a more inclusive research environment.”
The EPIC Team’s success in laying the foundation of this Congressionally-mandated virtual center underscores the significance of its mission to drive forward NOAA’s weather prediction capabilities. The team’s collaborative spirit, which involves a variety of stakeholders, continues to have a lasting impact on the development of more effective weather forecasting tools.
The recognition of the EPIC Team was matched by the celebration of Jennifer Vogt, who was named the Employee of the Year for Stakeholder Engagement. Vogt’s exceptional leadership played a key role in the success of several pivotal projects, including the third Unifying Innovations in Forecasting Capabilities Workshop (UIFCW), which took place at Jackson State University—marking the first time the event was hosted at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU).
Additionally, Vogt launched the Unified Forecast System Student Ambassador Program, providing opportunities for young people to become more involved with NOAA’s mission. She also mentored undergraduate students through the Lapenta Internship Program, further enriching NOAA’s community outreach efforts.
“Jennifer’s dedication has enriched our community outreach and enhanced our ability to engage new voices in NOAA’s mission,” remarked John Ten Hoeve. Vogt’s work has undoubtedly strengthened NOAA’s connection to diverse communities, amplifying the agency’s efforts to foster inclusive, forward-thinking research and innovation.
