“Female meteorologists have always been able to act professionally, in any situation, whether on land or on board. In my view, the greatest impact after women started working in the Brazilian Navy was about professionalism.”
Achievements
After graduating in Meteorology and obtaining a post-graduate degree in Synoptic Meteorology, Captain Giada Matschinske started working in 1992 as a Forecaster Officer in the Marine Meteorological Service, operated by the Brazilian Navy. After working in the operational area, she is now Institutional Advisor on meteorologicand and oceanographic affairs. She has over 25 year of experience in marine meteorology with three expeditions at sea, supporting weather forecasting for naval operations. One of her most significant expeditions was the one from Rio de Janeiro to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Why marine meteorology?
“I discovered Meteorology in early 80's, a profession practically unknown at that time in my country, which seemed to be the one that would allow me to work with earth science and new technologies, my favorite areas of study. At that time, I could not imagine how many incredible adventures I would live throuought my career.”
Key to success
She thinks that her professional growth was due her exclusive dedication and the training opportunities offered by the Brazilian Navy. Her participation in the JCOMM Women's Marine Leadership Workshop was a very gratifying experience and the group of 25 meteorologists and oceanographers from different parts of the world, whom she met and shared life stories and experiences during the workshop still keep in touch until today.
Overcoming challenges
Her biggest challenge was the complexity of the knowledge that was needed to be absorbed at a time when accessing literature was more difficult than today. Fortunately, the support of her family and some of the excellent mentors made her persist.
Advice to young female scientists.
- Study continuously
- Be humble to accept the errors and be persistent to start again
- Always seek improvement, every day.
Interviewed in May 2019
