Alumni Spotlight: Josh Cozart ’18

Forecasting a Future: Josh Cozart’s Path From MSU Denver to Portland’s Chief Meteorologist

For Josh Cozart ‘18, the path to broadcast meteorology was clear early on. He had long envisioned a career explaining the weather to the public, and MSU Denver offered the ideal place to turn that ambition into a profession. Drawn by the university’s respected meteorology program and hands-on broadcast opportunities, Cozart found an environment that combined access, mentorship and real-world preparation. 

A Program Built on Access and Support 

Cozart credits MSU Denver’s small class sizes and supportive faculty for creating an experience where students are known, challenged and encouraged. The close-knit structure of the meteorology department allowed him to work one-on-one with professors, build relationships with peers and receive individualized guidance—an approach that reflects MSU Denver’s mission to expand access while maintaining academic rigor. 

Just as important was The Met Report, a student-run broadcast through Met Media. There, Cozart gained practical experience that bridged theory and practice, helping him build confidence and professional skills long before graduation. 

Learning by Doing 

While still a student, Cozart served as general manager and weather producer for The Met Report, developing technical forecasting skills alongside leadership and communication experience. These opportunities allowed him to work alongside industry professionals and gain early exposure to broadcast standards—preparing him to enter a competitive field with momentum. 

That preparation paid off. With the support of MSU Denver faculty and the Met Media Department, Cozart secured a broadcast position before graduating in 2018. 

Rising Through the Ranks 

After graduation, Cozart worked at television stations across the country, earning multiple state broadcasting awards in Iowa and a regional Emmy Award from the Northwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. He attributes those honors directly to the skills, discipline and work ethic developed at MSU Denver. 

Today, Cozart serves as Chief Meteorologist at KOIN 6 News in Portland, Oregon, delivering forecasts across multiple daily newscasts while managing a team of meteorologists. He has also helped lead the station’s expansion into digital platforms, including podcasts and social media strategies, ensuring news remains accessible and relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape. 

Science in Service of Community 

For Cozart, the most meaningful part of his work is knowing his forecasts help keep people safe and informed. Each day brings new challenges, driven by ever-changing weather conditions and the responsibility of public trust. 

“My ability to forecast accurately is directly linked to my education from MSU Denver,” he said. 

Staying Connected and Giving Back 

Cozart stays connected to MSU Denver by visiting campus when he’s in town and maintaining relationships with former professors and classmates. He encourages current students to get involved, build community and use campus organizations to transform a commuter campus into a place of belonging. 

His journey—from student broadcaster to chief meteorologist—illustrates the power of accessible education, academic excellence and meaningful opportunity. At MSU Denver, Cozart found more than a degree; he found a launchpad for long-term professional and social mobility.