One of Denver’s longest serving weather anchors is planning to exit the airwaves by the end of the year.

Mike Nelson, Denver 7’s chief meteorologist, on Tuesday announced his intentions to retire, capping a career that includes more than 40 years in broadcasting, and more than three decades covering the weather in the Denver area.

“In addition to being a beloved on-air personality, Mike Nelson is a true expert in the science of Meteorology,” Denver7 Vice President and General Manager Brian Joyce said in an announcement. “Mike has been the steady hand guiding our viewers through countless storms and weather events, keeping them prepared and safe. His long tenure is evidence of his dedication and commitment to our community.”

Nelson began his career in the Midwest, with stops in his home state of Wisconsin and St. Louis before moving to Denver in 1991. He spent over a decade at 9News, serving as the station’s Chief Meteorologist before moving across the street to KMGH in 2004.

Nelson, 66, who has been forecasting weather since the Gerald Ford administration, is viewed as a pioneer in the industry.

He developed transformative weather graphics systems for television while working at Weather Central, a Wisconsin-based weather consulting firm. He also introduced the first-ever weather computer to Denver, which revolutionized weather forecasting in the region.

His trainees included national weather presenter Al Roker and Denver 7’s Lisa Hidalgo, who was among the many students Nelson has made presentations for around the Denver area throughout the years.

Nelson has also won numerous accolades, including 20 Emmy Awards, and was inducted into the Emmys Silver Circle for 25 years of service in the TV industry in 2016.

He is the only Colorado broadcaster to be named a Fellow of the American Meteorological Association, according to Denver 7.

In 2001, he received recognition as the Colorado Broadcasters Association Citizen of the Year for his voluntary efforts in educating the public on weather and climate-related topics.

According to Denver 7, Nelson will deliver his final weathercast with the station on Dec. 12.

“12/12/24 equals 48, which is the exact number of years I’ve been in the business,” Nelson said in his retirement announcement during a live broadcast on Denver 7. “It’s been a great ride and I love working with all the people [at KMGH].”