MIW/NAB’s “LAUNCH” Mentorship Program Underway
Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation announce the opening of the submission window for the 2025 LAUNCH Mentorship Program. The organizations say, “LAUNCH is a groundbreaking initiative developed to champion and cultivate emerging female talent in radio, with a specific focus on careers in engineering, audio production, and
technical operations. This one-of-a-kind, year-long mentorship pairs a rising professional with a seasoned industry leader to provide one-on-one coaching and deep exposure to the technical side of the broadcast industry.” The selected mentee will gain hands-on insight into critical areas including FCC compliance, RF systems, EAS, IP-based broadcast systems, automation, and network operations. The program also explores key aspects of IT, remote broadcasting, digital audio, streaming, and systems integration, equipping participants with both the knowledge and connections to lead confidently in the evolving audio landscape. In addition, the chosen mentee will attend the 2026 NAB Show in Las Vegas. MIW Board President Sheila Kirby says, “The LAUNCH program is a cornerstone of MIW’s mission to open doors for women in every corner of broadcasting. By focusing on engineering and technical operations, we’re not only providing critical skills and mentorship, but also ensuring that women have a strong voice in shaping the future of our industry. We are deeply grateful to Mr. Master, Premiere Networks, and of course the NAB Leadership Foundation for their support in helping us prepare the next generation of broadcast leaders.”
designed for women working in small to medium radio markets across any department. One deserving candidate will be selected to receive personalized coaching and mentorship from MIW’s network of experienced female executives as well as certified coaches from Media Staffing Network. MIW Board president Sheila Kirby says, “MIW is proud to continue honoring Laurie Kahn’s legacy through the Speak Up! Program. Each year, we have the opportunity to support emerging female leaders and help them find their voice and path to growth in our industry. This program represents the very heart of our mission.”
minds in the business. Through personalized conversations, strategic connections, and unique opportunities, the program aims to empower and elevate the mentee’s career within the radio industry.” This mentorship is open to one female brand manager, content/program director, assistant program director, or music director from any U.S.-based format. “The ‘MIW Elevating Women in Programming Mentorship’ program is a cornerstone of our mission to empower women in radio,” says MIW board president Sheila Kirby. “This initiative not only fosters personal and professional growth but also builds a stronger and more inclusive future for the industry. We’re excited to welcome another talented mentee into this life-changing program.” 
contributing their time, expertise, and resources. Honorees are true champions of service, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to fostering growth and progress within the industry. Spears was presented with the award by Erica Farber on Monday, April 7, at the MIW Lipstick & Lobster Dinner. MIW board president Sheila Kirby says, “Dan is the epitome of a leader who not only advocates for progress but actively makes it happen. His dedication to mentorship, industry collaboration, and fostering new events and opportunities for women is invaluable. We are honored to recognize his contributions with this award.”
Solutions and president of Strategic Sales Development at Interep. In her role as president-elect, she will continue to champion the mission of MIW, supporting and empowering women across all facets of the radio industry. She states, “I am deeply honored to serve as president of Mentoring and Inspiring Women. Nothing is more meaningful to me than helping women advance in their careers, especially at a time when women in various industries are finally having a well-deserved surge of recognition.” She will succeed current president Ruth Presslaff, who says, “Working with our extraordinary board to become a 501 (c)(3) and create new mentorships for programming, engineering, on-air and our Speak Up program, as well as multiple state association partnerships has been immensely rewarding. I know under Sheila’s incredible leadership, MIW will continue to soar and serve.”