After more than four decades as a television meteorologist in Rochester, Glenn Johnson is preparing to step away from broadcasting.
Johnson announced in a social media post that his final day on air at WHEC-TV (Channel 10) will be June 24.
Retirement announcement
Johnson, who joined WHEC-TV in July 2021, said he decided “to step back from television” after 41 years as a broadcast meteorologist.
“Through the decades, I’ve witnessed remarkable advances in the science of meteorology, and maybe along the way I have learned to get the forecast ‘right’ a little more often,” Johnson said in the post.
He also reflected on his career and colleagues, citing advice from the late Bill Peterson: “There is nothing like meteorology to keep you humble, and you never stop learning.”
Johnson thanked his colleagues at WHEC-TV and expressed gratitude to viewers across Western New York.
“It has always been a joy and an honor to forecast the unique weather of Western New York,” he said.
Career in Rochester
Like many, the New York native once dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player for the New York Yankees. When that path didn’t work out, his mother encouraged him to consider meteorology – a longtime hobby that eventually became his career.
“It was always a hobby for me, but I never thought it would become my career,” he said in a 2021 Democrat and Chronicle article. “I certainly never thought I’d end up on television.”
Johnson, who was raised on Long Island, began his career at WHAM-TV (Channel 13) in 1985 as an intern while attending the State University College at Brockport. He soon became a part-time meteorologist and later moved into weekend and weekday morning roles.
In 2001, he was named chief meteorologist, succeeding his mentor, Bill Peterson.
Johnson spent 36 years at WHAM-TV before being laid off in May 2021. He joined WHEC-TV (Channel 10) weeks later.
Teaching and community impact
In addition to his on-air work, Johnson shared his passion for weather with local students and taught meteorology courses at Monroe Community College.
Personal life and what’s next
“I’m sure I am far from the first person to say this, but for me, retirement is all about having a choice,” Johnson said. “And having this choice available while I’m still young enough to enjoy it.”
A longtime Fairport resident, Johnson and his wife, Eileen, have two grown sons and three grandchildren, and the pair want to spend more time with all three grandchildren. “Nothing like Papa and Grandma time,” he said.
Johnson also plans to travel once retired, and has a trip to the Greek Islands planned for later this year. He will work on his 1968 Chevy Chevelle, which, Johnson said, is “a lot of fun to drive.”
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Longtime NY meteorologist announces retirement after 41-year career
Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
