I was born in Morrilton, Arkansas, but grew up in Texarkana, Arkansas. I graduated from Texarkana Arkansas High School and attended Texarkana Junior College. I am a graduate of the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in Speech and Communications. I have worked a vast variety of jobs from Licensed Nurse at Brook Army Medical Center to Director of Family Planning Services for the Arkansas Department of Health.
I accepted a position of Chief Meteorologist for KTAL-TV in Shreveport in 1981, a position I held until 2000. During that time, I earned a degree in Broadcast Meteorology from Mississippi State University. After our locally owned station was bought by another company, I left the television industry for several years. I served as Development Director with Easter Seals of East Texas and raised money for a rehabilitation facility that provided treatment for children with disabilities.
In 2003, I was asked to come on board at KSLA News 12 This Morning as a Meteorologist. In 2003, I was not only the Morning Meteorologist but also filling a co-anchor position for KSLA News 12 This Morning, a show that went from a distant second place in Nielsen to Number One in just a year! It was an exciting feat! I am proud of my accomplishments on ALL fronts but remain well-grounded and free of the often too typical “TV Anchor Ego Syndrome!”
After a couple of years of semi-retirement, I was offered a Meteorologist position at KTAL NBC 6, the TV station where my weather career started! After much thought, I accepted the job of Weekend Meteorologist!
I hold firmly to the belief that all things happen for a reason and that there is truly a Divine Plan for everyone’s life. I believe that everyone deserves a smile and a “hello,” regardless. I am an outgoing individual who tries to laugh every day, often at myself. I am the original team player, believing that there is strength in numbers and that a united effort can always yield positive results. I am comfortable in any situation and know that I have a mission to complete, no matter what. If I am at work, I am “on!”
If you have any news stories or events for Ron, you can let him know at RYoung@ktalnews.tv
