NSSL scientist Bob Rabin recently returned from the 33rd annual American Indian Science and Engineering Society Conference held in Minneapolis, Minn. November 10-12, 2011.  The conference highlighted the academic excellence of high school, undergraduate and graduate American Indian and Alaska Native students, and offered opportunities for career networking.

The conference featured a career fair with exhibitors from industry, universities and federal agencies.  The NOAA booth was staffed by Rabin, sponsored by OAR EEO office, along with folks from the National Ocean Service.   Students expressed interest in internship opportunities within NOAA labs.  Tribal colleges were interested in connecting with NOAA scientists to mentor students in their programs.

Rabin also gave a presentation titled, “Monitoring rainfall and severe weather on native lands:  Scientific and social challenges.”  The talk highlighted the importance of including inter-connectivity in science, the role of Native American culture, and what it offers to the advancement of science and society as a whole.

The 34th AISES conference will be held in Anchorage, Ala. November 1-3, 2012.