(December 09, 2024) This month, we are honored to spotlight Jason B. Wright, lead
forecaster of the NWS Old Hickory, TN office. Jason B. Wright, the esteemed Chair of the
NWSEO Committee Diversity Team, is retiring after years of remarkable service. A proud NWSEO member for over 15 years, Jason has been a tireless advocate for inclusion, equity, and mental health awareness. His passion for teaching others about mental health has empowered many, fostering a culture of understanding and support. Jason’s leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on our organization. As he embarks on this new chapter, we extend our deepest gratitude for his invaluable contributions and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
Thank you for your service as the NWSEO Diversity Team Chair!
For years, you have championed Mental Health Awareness. What inroads have you seen in NWS that have rewarded the efforts of your passion?
First, I want to thank NWSEO. They allowed me to give a presentation on this important subject at the 2012 NWSEO convention and then asked me to present at several conventions afterward.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people with disabilities. This includes employees with a psychiatric or mental disability! Over the years, NWSEO has consistently encouraged the NWS to embrace the importance of mental health awareness and has advocated that the NWS work toward reducing the stigma and discrimination that employees might experience.
NWS has employed multiple platforms for their messages, including, but not limited to:
Appointment of consecutive NWS Behavioral Health and Wellness Officers.
Supporting multiple efforts by my fellow NWS/NWSEO employees.
Utilizing the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) Program to spread the word about the importance of mental health awareness.
National, regional and local training, activities, presentations and a NWS Org. Health toolkit to help foster psychological safety.
How has NWSEO impacted you and your life the most?
With their support and by letting me know that I was not alone. Specifically, other fellow brother and sister union members have struggled with some of the same things/issues I have struggled with professionally and personally throughout the years. NWSEO championed more NWS recognition and awareness of the challenges.
What would you like to say to NWS and NWSEO Leadership about our agency’s future?
Over the last few years, NWS/NWSEO leadership has demonstrated that the establishment of a strong, close partnership is vital to continuing the NWS mission. This partnership needs to continue to be developed and strengthened for the challenges and unique opportunities that the future entails!
-NWSEO-
No one cares more for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
employees than NOAA employees.
No one works harder for NOAA employees than NOAA employees.
We are NOAA employees. We are NWSEO.
Comments