Ellen Bacca is a name that many people in West Michigan recognize and admire. She is the chief meteorologist for WOOD-TV, the NBC affiliate station in Grand Rapids. She is also the first female meteorologist ever in the West Michigan television market. But how old is Ellen Bacca and what is her story? Here are some facts about this talented and trailblazing weather woman.
Ellen Bacca’s Age and Early Life
Ellen Bacca was born on June 29, 1989 in Portage, Michigan. That makes her 34 years old as of 2024. She grew up with a passion for weather and science, and was fascinated by storms and tornadoes. She attended Portage Northern High School, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Mark.
Ellen Bacca’s Education and Career
Ellen Bacca graduated from Valparaiso University in Indiana with a degree in meteorology in 2011. She then started her career as a meteorologist in Helena, Montana, where she worked for two years. She moved to New Bern, North Carolina in 2013, where she worked for another year before returning to her home state of Michigan.
Ellen Bacca joined WOOD-TV in 2014 as a weekend meteorologist and became part of the Storm Team 8. She quickly gained popularity and respect for her accurate and engaging weather forecasts. She also participated in several educational and community outreach programs, such as the Weather Experience, where she taught elementary school students about severe weather and how to be on TV.
In July 2021, Ellen Bacca made history by becoming the chief meteorologist for WOOD-TV, replacing the retiring Bill Steffen. She is the first female chief meteorologist in West Michigan and one of the few in the country. She also won several awards for her work, such as Emmys for Best Weathercast and Weather Anchor in Michigan, and Best Weathercast from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters.
Ellen Bacca’s Personal Life and Hobbies
Ellen Bacca is happily married to Mark, who is a pilot and a balloonist. They have a son named Luke, who was born in 2019. They live in Grand Rapids and enjoy spending time with their family and friends. Ellen Bacca is also an avid hiker and loves exploring the natural beauty of West Michigan. She is a fan of local breakfast joints and coffee shops, and likes to watch movies and read books in her spare time.
Ellen Bacca is an inspiration to many young girls and women who aspire to pursue careers in science and meteorology. She is a role model for excellence, professionalism, and leadership in her field. She is also a friendly and approachable person who loves to interact with her viewers and fans. She is one of the most popular and respected personalities in West Michigan, and a proud member of the WOOD-TV family.