The Life of Charles E. Anderson

What You Need To Know

• Charles E. Anderson was the first African American to earn a PhD in meteorology
• Anderson served as the weather officer at several Army Air Force bases
• He worked at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and North Carolina State University for decades

One of Anderson’s most notable and recognized accomplishments in his lifetime was being the first African American to earn a PhD in meteorology. This was no easy feat, and in doing so, opened a door for a more inclusive and diverse world of meteorology.

Anderson’s Background

His background to getting his PhD in meteorology is quite interesting. In 1941, Anderson earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Lincoln University. Shortly after, he joined the U.S. Army Air Corps where he was sent to study meteorology at the University of Chicago. It was there where he earned his master’s degree in meteorology in 1943.

While serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps, Anderson was stationed as a weather officer in Tuskegee, Ala. Some of you may know of the Tuskegee Airmen that Anderson was a part of. He spent some time after as a squadron weather officer, training other fighter pilots. Listen to him share his experiences in the Air Corps:

“In 1960, Anderson received his PhD in meteorology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After receiving his PhD, Anderson served as the Director of the Office of Federal Coordination in Meteorology in Environmental Science Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Finally, in 1966, Anderson was hired as a Professor of Meteorology at the University of Wisconsin. Although he started in this position, Anderson wore many hats during his time in Madison. From becoming the Professor of Afro-American Studies and Chairman of the Meteorology Department to being promoted to Associate Dean in 1978, he spent over two decades teaching young Wisconsinites the importance, science, and mechanics of meteorology.

Anderson finished his career at North Carolina State University as a professor in the Department of Marine, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, retiring in 1990.

Conclusion

Charles E. Anderson’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication to one’s craft. His groundbreaking achievements paved the way for a more diverse and inclusive field of meteorology, inspiring future generations of meteorologists and scientists. His legacy continues to be felt to this day, and it is a reminder of the importance of breaking down barriers and opening doors for others to follow.

FAQs

Q: What was Charles E. Anderson’s most notable achievement?
A: Earning his PhD in meteorology, making him the first African American to do so.

Q: Where did Anderson serve as a weather officer during his time in the U.S. Army Air Corps?
A: Tuskegee, Ala.

Q: What was Anderson’s career path after leaving the U.S. Army Air Corps?
A: He became a Professor of Meteorology at the University of Wisconsin, and later at North Carolina State University.