My name is Curtis Downie and I am a born and raised Canadian Prairie boy.  I completed an Environmental Science Degree at the University of Manitoba, located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 2001 and then continued my education completing a Diploma in Meteorology at Dalhousie University, located in Halifax Nova Scotia, in 2003.  I began my career with Environment Canada in September of 2003 and spent 7 months in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, finishing Environment Canada's Meteorological Operational Internship Program (MOIP).  In April of 2004 I was posted to an air force base in Trenton, Ontario and spent 2 ½ years forecasting for the Canadian Military.  In Trenton I had the opportunity to produce specialized aviation forecasts, as well as some local base and marine forecasts, for locations in Canada and around the world.  As a second posting with Environment Canada I was transferred to the Prairie and Arctic Storm Prediction Centre.  Here in Winnipeg duties include public and marine forecasts and warnings, as well as Air Quality Health Index.  I continue to shape my meteorological career and interests and am looking forward to the Radar Course to improve my operational skill set.

On a more personal note, besides my fascination with Meteorology, I enjoy almost any outdoor activity in any season.  My 5 year old Siberian Husky keeps me very active throughout the year, especially in the cold winter months.  I have a new found passion for the sport of squash, although I do not play it as often as I would like.  Additionally, my wife and I of three years are expecting our first child this January, so we are anticipating a lot of changes within our lives shortly.