MIW, NABLF Set October 30 Deadline for Women's Broadcast Mentorship

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) have announced that applications for the 2026 LAUNCH Mentorship Program will close on Friday, October 30. The organizations encourage women interested in broadcast technology careers to apply before the deadline.

Launched in 2023, the yearlong LAUNCH program aims to support and advance women working toward careers in broadcast engineering, audio production and technical operations. It connects emerging professionals with experienced industry mentors who provide individual guidance, professional development and practical insights into broadcast technologies.

Participants will learn about key areas such as Federal Communications Commission compliance, radio frequency systems, the Emergency Alert System, IP-based broadcasting, automation and network operations. The program also covers information technology, remote broadcasting, digital audio, and streaming and systems integration. Mentees will additionally have the opportunity to attend the 2027 NAB Show in Las Vegas.

Key Highlights:

• Applications for the 2026 LAUNCH Mentorship Program close on October 30
• The program mentors women in broadcast engineering, audio production and technical operations
• Eligibility now includes women working at broadcast technology partners and vendors

“As technology continues to transform every part of the broadcast business, we need more women building, operating and leading the systems that will take our industry forward,” said Sheila Kirby, board president of MIW.”

“Expanding LAUNCH to include women working with our technology partners and vendors allows us to reach talented professionals across a much broader part of the broadcast ecosystem. This program is about giving women access to mentorship, technical knowledge and relationships that can help turn career potential into long-term leadership.”

This year, organizers have expanded eligibility beyond those working directly for broadcasters to include broadcast technology partners and vendors, allowing more women pursuing technical careers to participate, MIW and NABLF said.

“By expanding LAUNCH to include women at technology partners and vendors, we can reach more professionals whose expertise is essential to how our industry operates and evolves,” NABLF President Michelle Duke said. “We are proud to continue partnering with MIW to provide meaningful mentorship, industry exposure and opportunities that help women grow their careers and become leaders in broadcast technology.”