Category 4: Using Innovative Technologies to Deliver Simple,
Seamless, and Secure Services
MARINE AND DECISION
SUPPORT DIVISION
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Weather Service
U.S. Department of Commerce
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Mark Willis
Supervisory Physical Scientist
Monica Youngman
NWS Chief Scientist
Kelly Allen
Sector 4 Operations Center
Meteorologist in Charge
Matt Davis
Physical Scientist
Jeremy Schulz
IT Specialist
Mike Churma
Meteorologist
Don Barto
Software Developer
Allison Northrop
Physical Scientist
Angela Smith
Contract Specialist
Management Analyst
Nate Smith
IT Specialist
Derek Deroche
Mutual Aid Coordinator
Gina Selig
Project Manager
Conor McSherry
Team Lead
Abdelaal Ali
Software Developer
Ashleigh Pulsifer
Software Developer
Shawn Webber
Senior Software Developer
Adina Anton
Project Manager
Mitch Marsden
Team Lead
Abiy Woldetsadik
Software Developer
Ben Rayden
Junior Software Developer
Alex Nguyen
Software Developer
Jessica Schauer
Business Analyst
Ruchir Narayan
Business Process SME
Amrish Jain
Technical SME
The Marine and Decision Support Division at NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) is being honored in Category 4: Using Innovative Technologies to Deliver Simple, Seamless, and Secure Services for using artificial intelligence to modernize critical weather services and strengthen public safety. Under the leadership of Mark Willis and Monica Youngman, the division’s AI Modernization team addressed aging technology and workforce challenges with innovative solutions designed to improve the speed, accuracy, and reliability of NWS operations.
The division modernized the Local Storm Report (LSR) and Public Information Statement (PNS) systems, reducing application update timelines from more than six months to approximately 2.5 months. The team also developed AI-driven approaches to improve staffing allocation and maintain high-quality services amid workforce constraints. Through sprint demonstrations and ongoing stakeholder engagement, the division incorporated frontline feedback into development, ensuring new tools addressed real operational needs.
These advancements help NWS deliver more timely and accurate weather information to millions of Americans, strengthening preparedness and decision-making during severe weather events. Employees benefit from modernized applications, more efficient staffing, and reduced operational burdens. By combining AI, agile development, and user-centered feedback, the Marine and Decision Support Division is demonstrating how innovative technology can strengthen NWS operations and help protect lives and property nationwide.