Viewers of WXXV (Gulfport, Miss) haven't seen a newscast featuring Chief Meteorologist Ashley Feaster in almost a year.

Some may have wondered if she still worked there or had moved on? Feaster took the time off to hunt hurricanes and chase her dreams.

"Ever since I was a little girl, I have wanted to be a Hurricane Hunter," she said. "I applied when there was an opening, and got the transfer order to Keesler last April."

Feaster is an officer in the Air National Guard and served as commander of the 127th Weather Flight at Forbes Field in Topeka, Kan.

"My dad was in the Navy," she said. "Very early on, I knew the importance of serving your country."

For the past year, Feaster has been completing various training exercises across the country.

"I've been to Panama City, Spokane, Pensacola and Hawaii," she said. "This year has been thrilling, to say the least."

Feaster is still in the storm-training process but has completed land and water survival training.

"My year of training has helped me learn everything I possibly could about my job," she said.

Joe Sullivan, WXXV news director, said the experience Feaster brings to the newsroom is invaluable.

"With her knowledge of hurricanes, the entire Gulf Coast should feel incredibly safe having her here," he said. "She is unmatched in knowledge and passion for her field of expertise."

Feaster said it feels good to be back in the newsroom, which has been another dream of hers.

"I've always only wanted to do two jobs," she said. "To be able to do both at the same time is surreal."

H/T Sun Herald