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More Than A Scientist: Justin Pullin

By AMS Staff
Sep 9, 2022

Justin Pullin

Deputy Chief of Staff, National Weather Service

Chair, AMS Board for Early Career Professionals

What is your favorite aspect of what you currently do as a scientist?

Fostering relationships with people. People are the most important aspect of our jobs, even as scientists. In my new role with the NWS, ensuring that my team has the tools that they need to succeed and watching them use those tools to excel and serve others is rewarding. During my time as a forecaster, I took great pride in connecting with emergency managers, first responders, and other decision-makers outside of our agency to help them make the best decisions they could ahead of, during, and immediately after impactful weather. I also enjoy reaching out to up-and-coming scientists and offering advice and guidance as they embark on their own career journeys. In our data-driven profession, it’s important to take care of the people behind the important work that is being done to ensure healthy work environments across the WWCE.

What are one or two things you do for fun that make you #morethanascientist?

I am a huge sports fan! I watch everything from stick and ball sports to motorsports. When I’m not watching sports, I enjoy staying active. I enjoy challenging a different part of my brain through nature photography, which satisfies my urge to be creative without having outside expectations influencing my work in the realm. I also enjoy physical activity—I’m always up for a hike or a good challenge in skiing or rock climbing.

What does a “work-life balance” mean to you?

To me, there never is a true 50/50 balance between work-life responsibilities and fun. I’ve learned how to prioritize my energy for the most important tasks at any given moment in time, whether that is work related or in my personal life. These days, I am more intentional about scheduling fun activities or time to rest to recharge my batteries. Being a social introvert, having that down time for enjoyment and/or rest is key for me to have enough energy to take on my life responsibilities.