What does a typical day look like for you? As a Broadcast Engineer, there is no “typical day”. I can always plan a day of basic maintenance at a site but then be drawn to a critical error on the other end of the state. A rule of thumb is to always leave the house with a bag of clothes, you just never know where you will end up. 🙂
What is the most challenging part of keeping a radio station running smoothly? The most challenging part of keeping a station running is keeping track of literally every site, every piece of equipment and maintenance records on it. Keeping equipment running for the most part can be simple. Keep it clean, keep is vented and cool and it can run a long long time. The biggest challenge is the unforeseen things that happen. We always try to be prepared for worst case scenario to the point in storm season of carrying generators, spare transmitters and everything to keep a station on air.
What’s the coolest or most unexpected part of being a radio Engineer? There’s a number of cool things that happen as a Broadcast Engineer. Revitalizing stations that have been neglected for years and being able to upgrade them. Going to under served communities and bringing the stations back to life or full power. Nothing ever beats being able to hit “Transmitter On” for the first time.
What got you interested in Broadcast Engineering? I got into radio at age 15 as a simple board op. From there I kind of took over the IT Operations of the station. From there I started to follow the engineer to tower sites and learning the ins and outs of equipment and transmitters. I really got interested in the engineering side around 20 years old. Minus a couple years in retail in college radio has been my whole life.
Favorite genre of music or favorite band/artist? My favorite genre of music… I mainly listen to country. But to be honest, I listen to literally everything. Some days if the mood hits it could range from Oldies to HipHop. The first CD I owned as a kid was Bon Jovi if that says anything lol.
What are some of your Hobbies/Interests outside of work? Outside of work you can find me beside the campfire at our permanent camp site. My wife, kids and I became seasonals at a campground about 8 years ago and has been the most amazing way to relax. We recently adopted a puppy and he cant wait to be apart of the campground group as well.
