The North Carolina Association of Broadcasters (NCAB) has partnered with Wake Tech to develop the NCAB Broadcast Technology Academy to prepare individuals who are technically minded, mechanically inclined or electrically inclined for careers as broadcast technicians in the broadcasting industry.

A rigorous mix of classroom and hands-on learning in a specially designed lab during the 14-week academy provides students the technical skills and theoretical knowledge required for success in the broadcasting industry. Students learn about AM, FM, HD and HDTV transmission systems, including transmitters, antennas, transmission lines, remote control systems and program delivery systems.

Upon completion, students will be able to troubleshoot and repair both legacy and modern radio transmission systems. They also will be prepared to challenge the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) Certified Broadcast Technologist exam, providing national recognition of their engineering abilities.

Tuition, fees and books will be covered by the NCAB. Additional funds will be available to assist with living expenses, transportation, etc., provided the student attends all classes and meets workload and grade requirements.

Students who complete the training successfully will be connected to industry professionals for job recruiting opportunities.

According to SBE and U.S. Department of Labor statistics, the broadcasting industry faces a growing shortage of engineers and technicians as more retire than enter the field. The Broadcast Technology Academy was created because the profession requires a unique skill set not readily available for study at most institutions of higher learning or vocational education programs.

The SBE has named Wake Tech a "Certification School," providing national recognition of the college's Electronics Engineering Technology degree program and the NCAB Broadcast Technology Academy.

Information sessions

NCAB officials and Wake Tech faculty can provide details about the program and answer questions during an hour-long information session. All sessions are held in Room 406D of the Beltline Education Center, 3200 Bush St. in Raleigh.

• March 26, 12 p.m.
• March 26, 6 p.m.
• April 9, 12 p.m.
• April 9, 6 p.m.
• May 14, 12 p.m.
• May 14, 6 p.m.

Academy classes start June 8 at the Beltline Education Center.

For more information, email Myra Beckers at [email protected] or Nick Hosine at [email protected].