Matt Comerford
About Matt Comerford
Matt Comerford is a Software Engineer at the NOAA/NWS Space Weather Prediction Center, specializing in applied technology and scientific validation of forecasting algorithms. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Astrophysics and Computer Science from the University of Colorado Boulder and has been involved in various roles within the field since 2012.
Current Role at NOAA/NWS Space Weather Prediction Center
Matt Comerford serves as a Software Engineer at the NOAA/NWS Space Weather Prediction Center, a position he has held since 2016. In this role, he is responsible for the scientific validation of algorithms for forecast products. He prepares and delivers briefings on the SPADES system and its operations, ensuring effective communication with various stakeholders. Additionally, he interfaces with multiple upstream data providers to maintain data quality and input cadence for the center.
Previous Experience at J.G. Management Systems
Prior to his current position, Matt Comerford worked at J.G. Management Systems, Inc. (JGMS) in various capacities. He began as an IT Intern in 2012 for two months in Grand Junction, Colorado. Later, he served as a Software Engineer for the NOAA/NWS Office of Observations from 2015 to 2016 in the Washington D.C. Metro Area. His responsibilities included developing applications and transitioning algorithms from the National Centers for Environmental Information into operational settings.
Education and Academic Background
Matt Comerford studied at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he majored in Astrophysics and Computer Science. He earned his Bachelor's degree between 2010 and 2015. He is also pursuing a Certificate in Applied Business from the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado Boulder, a program he has been engaged in since 2015.
Technical Skills and Contributions
In his current role, Matt Comerford has developed and transitioned algorithms for the SPADES project, which supports the continuity of operations with the NOAA GOES-R satellite series. He provides operations and maintenance support for operational instances and is involved in transitioning applications from development to operations. His work includes preparing documentation and transition-to-operations plans, ensuring that systems are effectively integrated into operational environments.
Internship Experience
Before his professional career, Matt Comerford gained valuable experience through internships. He worked as an IT Intern at CoorsTek in 2011 for two months in Grand Junction, Colorado, and later at J.G. Management Systems, Inc. in 2012. These internships provided him with foundational skills in technology and operations that he has built upon in his subsequent roles.