A Journey Through Meteorology
Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Kathy-Ann's passion for meteorology led her to obtain her BSc. in Meteorology from the State University of New York at Brockport, where she graduated Cum Laude. She further honed her skills by earning an MSc. degree in Meteorology from Texas A&M University. Before her tenure at CIMH, Kathy-Ann served as Meteorologist II (Chief Operational Forecaster) at the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS), where she made significant contributions to operational forecasting.
Now, as the Section Head of Meteorology at CIMH and Undergraduate Coordinator of the Meteorology programme within the FST Faculty at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, Kathy-Ann specializes in Tropical and Synoptic Meteorology. Her lectures cover vital areas such as Aviation, Satellite and Physical Meteorology, equipping the next generation of meteorologists with the knowledge they need to succeed.
Highlights of Contributions
Kathy-Ann's contributions extend beyond the classroom. Her leadership and innovative spirit have greatly influenced the field of meteorology in the Caribbean. She has played a pivotal role in designing and presenting the Aeronautical Continuing Professional Development distance learning programme for the Regional National Meteorological Services, as well as the Operational Aeronautical Forecasters’ Course for meteorology graduates.
Her international involvement is equally impressive. Kathy-Ann serves as the Co-chair of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Standing Committee on the Aviation Expert Team on Education, Training and Competencies, and she is a member of several other esteemed committees and task teams focused on satellite matters and aviation.
Personal Achievements
Kathy-Ann's dedication has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades, including the Certificate for Outstanding Service from WMO RA IV in 2013, and Outstanding Service Awards from the WMO Commission on Aeronautical Meteorology in both 2015 and 2018. Most recently, she received an award from the WMO Service Commission (SERCOM) in 2024. Her commitment to excellence also led her to complete the RA IV Hurricane Forecasters’ Competency Framework, enhancing the region’s preparedness for tropical storms.
A Personal Insight
Kathy-Ann is inspired by the words of Frank Zapper: “The mind is like a parachute; it only works if it is open” and Dr. Joanne Simpson: “Science isn't just cold, hard facts. The crux is fitting, unfitting things together and making them hang together". She also embraces the challenge posed by a former FST Colleague – Professor C. M. Sean Carrington: “We (as lecturers) are tasked with training students for jobs that don’t yet exist”. These quotes reflect her forward-thinking approach and dedication to preparing students for an ever-evolving field. In her downtime, Kathy-Ann enjoys playing the guitar in her church choir and hitting the courts for a game of lawn tennis.
Join Us in Celebrating Kathy-Ann!
As we celebrate Ms. Kathy-Ann Caesar, we recognize her invaluable contributions to the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) and the field of meteorology. Her passion for teaching and commitment to innovation continue to inspire those around her.
Stay tuned for more stories as we continue to highlight the exceptional staff making a difference in our FST Faculty!
