Raised near Joliet, a suburb of Chicago, Monte developed his interest in weather as a teenager while working at a greenhouse. The link between weather and plants pushed him to watch weather and eventually to pursue a degree in meteorology.
After graduating with a double major in meteorology and speech communication from Iowa State University, Monte landed his first job in broadcasting at KHAS-TV in Hastings, Nebraska. There, Monte learned the basics of weekend weather forecasting. Severe thunderstorms, winter weather and tornadoes were all too common in the Great Plains. In addition, Monte learned the tough duties of a weekday general assignment reporter.
Monte’s next job took him to WBTW in Myrtle Beach. While on the Grand Strand, Monte covered headline weather events such as Hurricanes Charley and Gaston. Monte also led coverage on several tornado events including the nasty remnants of Hurricane Frances in ’04. Monte’s years in Myrtle Beach earned him his AMS Seal of Approval and a 1st place award for Environmental Reporting from the South Carolina AP.
Here are five other things you might not know about Monte:
- I cycle an average of 185 miles per week, mostly around my hometown of Midland.
- I was once a certified river guide in Colorado & Utah. I've guided rivers such as the Colorado, Green & Yampa.
- I have climbed 13 of 53 14,000 foot peaks in Colorado. I hope to finish all someday.
- A viewer could have spotted my wife & me on TV roadside at the 2014 Tour de France.
- I've spent time enjoying the thrill of roller coasters with my daughter.
Email: Monte.Montello@charter.com
Twitter: @MonteMontello