FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

I am one of the founders and president of Michigan Storm Chasers. I bring 10 years of storm chasing and weather forecasting experience to the business. Running the social media pages is my full time job, along with leading severe weather coverage live streams.. When I am not working on IWN or its affiliates, I enjoy being outside and spending time with my two daughters.

VICE PRESIDENT & GROWTH DIRECTOR

Hey everyone! My name is Chandler and I have been chasing for over 10 years! I have seen tornados in 6 states and go out to the plains every year to chase. I take a lot of value in growth and leadership and I make it my mission to make sure that MSC is always growing and building positive relationships with people in the communities around the mitten. Outside of IWN and affiliate pages, I am married to Brittany, we have two cats (Oscar and Otis), and enjoy many different outdoor activies year-round!

CHIEF METEOROLOGIST

Hello everyone, I’m Joel Fritsma, 25 years old, and a recent graduate from Central Michigan University with a bachelor of science degree in Meteorology and GIS. I am the chief meteorologist on staff for the Indiana Weather Network and it’s affiliates. I was born and raised in Lowell, MI and have been chasing storms since 2015 when I got my license. I’ve seen two tornadoes in Indiana, and have been close to many in Michigan without actually seeing them. I’m a huge fan of Detroit sports teams, gaming, and hanging out with friends, sometimes all at the same time.

TREASURER

My name is Alex and I have been chasing storms since 2005. I have a vast amount of forecasting experience and studied meteorology at Central Michigan University. Outside of storm chasing, I work in a leadership position for Lake Michigan Credit Union and I am engaged to my fiance, Lisa.

MERCHANDISING MANAGER

Hi everyone, I have been chasing storms since 2016 when Chandler got me into it. I have gone out to the plains twice and seen 3 tornados. I enjoy streaming and working on the merchandise side of things. Outside of social media work, I enjoy many outdoor activities year round and always look forward to hunting season!

CONTENT CREATOR/DESIGNER

Hello, my name is Caleb Ivins. I am 26 years old, born and raised in Indiana. I have deep roots with the agricultural community with a farm background. I have a degree in agriculture and specialize in agronomy. I am a professional storm chaser who has been chasing for over 10 years. I have documented many tornados and many other severe weather events. I have a deep passion for physical science and a passion for the community.

Reserve Forecaster
My name is Kyle Bales and I’ve been forecasting weather in the Midwest for more than three years with experience in broadcast television. My primary objective is to continuously improve the way hazardous or dangerous weather is communicated to the general public, first responders and public safety officials. Outside of weather forecasting, I’m an investigative journalist and help with disaster relief efforts. My studies include meteorology, social sciences and emergency management.

Storm Hunter

Casey Heckenlaible is an experienced Automotive Assembler and passionate weather enthusiast with a deep love for storm chasing. For over four years, Casey has actively pursued severe weather, tracking and documenting storms to better understand nature's most dramatic phenomena. Whether it's a towering thunderstorm or a rare weather event, he’s always been drawn to the thrill of the skies and the beauty of nature in motion.

Alongside his career in automotive assembly, Casey runs a small hobby farm, where he enjoys the peaceful rhythms of farm life and caring for a variety of animals. His diverse interests combine technical skill, a fascination with the natural world, and a commitment to exploring the forces that shape our environment.

Storm Hunter

Hello my name is Kory Stewart. I have lived in central Indiana all my life. I have been chasing on and off the last 10 years. I have actually been with Indiana Weather Network since the very very beginning. This has always been a dream of mine to chase all weather. Now I get it do it and get to enjoy with my family as well. My wife and daughter go on all chases with me. I am also a Firefighter/EMT this comes in handy during towns that are hit by storms. I can use my knowledge and skills to rescue people. Also medically treat people as well.

Storm Hunter

Hi everyone! My name is Tiffany. I saw my first tornado way too close when I was 6 years old in Boulder Colorado where I was born and raised. Believe it or not, I spent the next 25 years afraid of storms until the 23’ Derecho came roaring through and I decided I was finished letting the weather control me. I applied here at IWN with the hopes of facing my fears with knowledge and understanding and found myself mesmerized by the beauty and power of Mother Nature. Along with a passion for weather, I have my Master’s Degree in Metaphysics and I’m a certified Spiritual Counselor. Mental health is so important and I strive to be someone others feel safe to confide in. When I’m not working or staring at the sky, you can find me in the forest or on a fun adventure with my 3 little men.

Storm Hunter

I joined IWN in February of 2024 and have been chasing with them ever since! Chasing is a passion for me for a few reasons: First, it’s the reminder that Mother Nature is powerful, unpredictable, beautiful, and needs to be respected.  
Second, it’s an opportunity to help protect life and property and provide ground truth. Radars can only see so much, so we are the eyes on the ground providing real time information.
The weather is always changing and evolving, so every chase is a new experience and an opportunity to learn.
In my downtime I am usually reading, hiking, or playing video games!

Storm Hunter

Hi, I’m Stephen — a business owner and Deputy Director at the Fulton County Emergency Management Agency. I’m passionate about helping my community stay safe and prepared.

When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me outdoors. I’m an avid outdoorsman and off-road enthusiast who’s always up for a new trail, a good challenge, and a little mud. Whether it’s tackling rough terrain or just enjoying the peace and quiet of nature, that’s where I recharge.

Storm Hunter

Hi, I'm Cody! I'm a 33 year old third-generation steelworker born and raised in Northwest Indiana. I'm happily married to my beautiful wife Morgan, and we're proud dog/horse parents!

Although I've only been actively chasing storms for a few years, I've been studying and educating myself on severe weather for as long as I can remember. From watching Twister, Storm Chasers, and Storm Stories on repeat growing up, to making it my own passion has truly been a blessing!

Chasing chaos where others seek shelter will be something I do for the rest of my life!

Follow me on Facebook and YouTube @stormchasercodyfields

Storm Hunter

Hey everyone! I’m Dakota, and I’m 21.

I have 7 months of chasing experience under my belt along with 3 months with IWN. In my free time, I teach music, and love to watch racing!