May 12, 2026 – Woodward Community Media proudly welcomed a group of aspiring media professionals to its campus as part of the IBF Media Career Academy, one of three premier training programs featured as part of the Radio Advertising Bureau’s (RAB) National Radio Talent System.
The visit gave students a firsthand look at the dynamic world of local media—offering an immersive, behind-the-scenes experience designed to inspire the next generation of media talent.
The RAB National Radio Talent System was created with a clear mission: to provide students with meaningful, hands-on opportunities that bridge classroom learning with real-world application. Through site visits like today’s, participants gain valuable insight into station operations, content creation, branding, and the evolving digital landscape shaping the audio industry.
Woodward Community Media’s Springfield facilities served as the perfect environment for students to explore these opportunities. During their visit, students engaged with industry professionals in sales and digital media, toured studios and sat in on live, local shows, and observed how local content is produced and delivered across multiple platforms. The experience reinforced the essential role local media plays in connecting communities while showcasing the wide range of careers available in broadcasting and digital media.
The IBF Media Career Academy, currently taking place in Bloomington, Illinois, runs from May 11–15, 2026, and is one of three academies featured in this year’s national program. The full 2026 schedule also includes:
- GAB Media Career Academy
University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication
May 11–16, 2026 - IBF Media Career Academy
Bloomington, Illinois
May 11–15, 2026 - Kellar Media Career Academy
Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina
June 8–13, 2026
Each academy is hosted in partnership with leading universities and state broadcast organizations, ensuring participants receive a comprehensive and well-rounded introduction to the media industry.
Woodward Community Media is honored to play a role in shaping the future of broadcasting by supporting initiatives like the IBF Media Career Academy. By opening its doors to students, the organization continues its commitment to education, mentorship, and the growth of local media.
