What It Really Takes to Keep Montana Radio on the Air

Over my 35-year radio career, I've done just about everything. I've worked every shift there is. I've sold radio advertising. I’ve dressed as the radio station mascots for parades and ball games. I've even cleaned the radio station toilet a few times over the years. 

A New Challenge: Installing a Transmitter

But now I can add something new to my resume. 

I helped remove and replace a radio transmitter. 

It's not every day you get the opportunity to haul a brand-new transmitter to the top of a mountain in beautiful Montana, but that's exactly what we did. It was a long day. It took three of us to get the job done, and it was one of the coolest experiences I've had in this business. 

READ MORE: Why Radio Still Matters in Montana—One Listener Proves It

I don't think most people realize just how much work goes into getting a radio signal to your car, your home, or your job. There are towers, transmitter buildings, equipment, miles of roads, and a lot of dedicated people who make sure those signals reach listeners every single day. 

Passion for Radio: More Than Just a Job

Radio has been a huge part of my life for decades. Even before I worked in the business, it was something I loved. So, getting the chance to be part of something like this was special for me. Once every 35 years is probably enough. 

The transmitter is in place now. The engineers will handle all the wiring; they've wisely decided that wiring is above my pay grade, but before long we'll be flipping the switch. 

A Better Signal: Broadcasting with the New Transmitter

When we do, KBAZ, 96.3 The Blaze, will be broadcasting with a brand-new transmitter that will help improve our signal across western Montana. 

Radio Missoula

Radio Towers

Radio Warning

Most listeners will never know the work that went into making it happen, and honestly, that's the way it's supposed to be. They'll just turn on the radio, hear their favorite station, and never think twice about what it took to get that signal to them.

Cherishing the Experience: Another Chapter in My Career 

For me, though, it was another memorable chapter in a career that's given me more experiences than I ever imagined. 

Now I can officially say that I've helped install a radio transmitter on top of a Montana mountain. That's one more story to add to the collection.