WxTV is a national weatherization training show that uses a blend of expert advice, how-to techniques, innovation, and reality TV to create entertainment-based learning.

The show was developed in 2010 by the Montana Weatherization Training Center, part of Montana State University – Extension Housing and Environmental Health, with funding support from a partnership between Exxon Mobil and the National Community Action Foundation.

Episodes range 12-15 minutes in length and are filmed around the country by WxTV film crews and often by weatherization crews themselves, in the field, showcasing their know-how. WxTV brings together differing techniques from hot, cold, humid, and arid environments, opening a dialogue for crews to debate the best way to accomplish weatherization tasks under varying conditions.

But it’s not just weatherization on WxTV’s radar; the show has expanded to cover all aspects of energy-efficient living. In just a year and a half, the show has gained a sizable following within the weatherization, renovation, and energy-efficiency industries.

Host/Writer: Ben Cichowski

Ben Cichowski is a seasoned educator and instructional designer with 20 years of experience in the field of education. He’s also a civil/environmental engineer, though he’s more comfortable wearing a tool belt than a pocket protector. In addition to directing efforts at the Montana Weatherization Training Center, Ben actively teaches courses and serves as a leading health and safety expert for the region. Ben is an EPA Certified Instructor for RRP, Lead Inspector, and Lead Risk Assessor; an OSHA Authorized Outreach Training Provider for OSHA 10 and 30 in Construction; a BPI Quality Control Inspector; and a Level 1 Thermographer.

Director/Editor: Vince Cusomato

Heading up the production of WxTV is Vince Cusomato. Vince has years of experience behind a camera and even more in the world of video/sound editing and 3D animation. Vince is a well-seasoned distance-learning producer with numerous CD and online products under his belt and an ability to make nearly any subject fun to learn.

Executive Producer: Michael Vogel

Mike Vogel established the Montana Weatherization Training Center and certification program in 1991 in partnership with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. A veteran of the community, Mike has been in the field of weatherization since 1977. Though now retired, Dr. Vogel was a professor and a housing and environmental health specialist with Montana State University Extension since 1982.