Courtesy photo / Joe Murgo interviews Punxsutawney Phil during his annual Groundhog’s Day coverage. Murgo is scheduled to cover what is potentially his final Groundhog’s Day today at Gobbler’s Knob.

A Blair County icon is set to hang up his broadcasting suit at the end of this week as he looks to a new career.

Joe Murgo has been at WTAJ for just shy of 22 years and has become a staple in many living rooms around central Pennsylvania during his time as chief meteorologist. He has also traveled around the area to festivals and events for live coverage.

Murgo said the news industry never felt like an actual job until just recently, leading him to question whether he should explore new options after more than two decades in the business.

He will continue to work in the climate and weather business as a senior implementation specialist at the United Kingdom-based climate risk management company Risilience.

After starting his career at Accuweather in State College and then shifting to Washington, D.C., Murgo realized he didn’t want to stay in D.C. for the rest of his career.

Despite receiving a job offer in Virginia, Murgo called WTAJ on a whim and had a “great” conversation with then-news director Jim Frank. Murgo didn’t want to find just another stop on his career path but was looking for a place he could call home for years to come.

“I was looking for a career, not just a stopping place,” Murgo said. “I love the area, and I love the community.”

Murgo’s kids graduated college in the region and decided to stay local. Murgo said his roots are in this area, and he has no plans to leave. He always thought he would end his career at WTAJ, but when his workload started to feel overbearing, he opened himself up to the possibility of different horizons.

At 53, he knew it was now or never.

“If you’re going to try something, this is time,” he said.

Murgo said he knows this decision will hurt his longtime viewers, but he hopes they will understand why he needs to step away from the set.

“I’ve made a lot of sacrifices through the years,” Murgo said.

After all the days of waking up at 7 a.m. and working until midnight, Murgo said the wear and tear took its toll, and he’s looking forward to having more discretionary time.

“I’m happy to say I’m available to help the community now,” Murgo said.

Murgo’s new position will largely consist of working remotely since Risilience is based in the U.K., but he will have to take a few trips abroad each year — a condition about which he is not complaining. That freedom was one of the main reasons why Murgo decided to leave WTAJ.

Station general manager Phil Dubrow said WTAJ will miss Murgo, and his work over the years was extremely appreciated.

“Joe is very intense when it comes to severe weather and keeping people safe,” Dubrow said. “We will miss him most for his dedication and drive.”

Murgo’s last day is Friday.

He will cover Groundhog Day today and said after 22 years of covering Punxsutawney Phil’s re-emergence, it’s “surreal” that it could be the last time.

On the other hand, Murgo said is excited and “energized” to join a company like Risilience in a field he believes is extremely important as the climate has become more volatile.

He is looking forward to helping businesses make smart decisions about where to geographically base their operations, according to the weather risks associated with that region and how to navigate climate emergencies if and when they arrive.

Cary Rinken, the U.S. lead of client solutions at Risilience, is a friend of Murgo’s and encouraged him to apply.

Rinken said Murgo will be a great addition to the team and will help clients assess the risks the climate presents them.

“He brings an extensive knowledge of meteorology and climate science, as well as a terrific ability to explain complex scientific concepts,” Rinken said.

“It’s a shot of energy” joining Risilience, Murgo said, and he’s excited to keep working in the field he loves and fully enjoy the region he adores at the same time.

“I’m still in love with the same community,” Murgo said. “This is where my roots are.”

Mirror Staff Writer Nate Powles is at 814-946-7466.