Have you ever looked closely at the text at the bottom of the screen during Weather on the Ones?

I'm not referring to the news, weather and traffic ticket scrolling along. I'm referring to the insignia that appears next to the meteorologist's name that says "AMS Certified."

What does AMS Certified mean, though? And what do those letters stand for?

Every meteorologist at News 13 holds the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) designation from the American Meteorologist Society (AMS). This prestigious distinction is awarded by the nation's most premier scientific and professional organization for atmospheric, oceanic and hydrological sciences.

The CBM is often compared to an accountant becoming a CPA or a lawyer passing the bar examination.

In order to earn the CBM, a meteorologist must first meet the educational requirements to apply: a bachelor's degree in meteorology or equivalent area of study from an accredited college or university. This coursework involves a heavy science curriculum, including atmospheric dynamics, thermodynamics, synoptic meteorology and a whole lot of math. Most programs require three to four semesters of calculus, differential equations and calculus-based physics. Each Weather Expert at News 13 has earned a bachelor's degree in meteorology or atmospheric science.

Applicants must pass a rigorous closed-book examination and then have their on-air work reviewed by panelists from the AMS Board on Broadcast Meteorology to assess critical areas, such as graphical content, explanation and presentation skills. Successful candidates are awarded the CBM upon passing. In addition, meteorologists must keep up with continuing education to earn professional development points in order to maintain their certification.

The AMS began awarding seals of approval in 1957 with the original "AMS Television Seal of Approval." This seal didn't require a written test or academic requirements. This program was discontinued in 2008 after awarding 1,858 seals.

Perhaps you have seen this seal next to someone's name in the past.

As a way to raise the professional standards, the CBM program launched in 2005. It was devised to encourage a broader range of scientific understanding, especially with respect to environmental issues.

The AMS is made up of about 13,000 members worldwide, including scientists, researchers, educators, students, weather enthusiasts and other professionals in the fields of weather, water and climate. The broadcast population makes up only 10 percent of the entire AMS membership. Since the program's inception 11 years ago, roughly 730 meteorologists have been awarded the CBM and about 560 are currently active.

News 13 is proud to feature the only weather team in Central Florida — and one of few in the entire state of Florida — comprised of all CBMs.

So, next time you watch Weather on the Ones, take note of the bottom of the screen and know that CBM seal designates the highest quality weathercast. You'll get that every 10 minutes only on News 13!

Maureen McCann currently serves as the AMS Commissioner on Professional Affairs, which oversees the society's certification programs.