RAB Powers 2026 Media Career Academies to Advance Radio Talent Pipeline

NEW YORK — April 14—RAB today announced its 2026 Media Career Academies, part of the National Radio Talent System (NRTS)—the industry's premier student training initiative, powered by RAB.
Aligned with RAB's mission to drive growth through education, training and workforce development, the academies provide immersive, hands-on experience for students pursuing careers across broadcast radio, podcasting and digital audio.
2026 academies include:

• GAB Media Career Academy — Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Georgia (May 11–16)
• IBF Media Career Academy — Illinois Broadcasters Foundation, Bloomington, Illinois (May 11–15)
• Kellar Media Career Academy — Appalachian State University (June 8–13)

Participants gain real-world training in content creation, sales, marketing and digital strategy, while building direct connections with industry leaders. Graduates earn RAB's Radio Marketing Professional (RMP) certification, helping accelerate entry into the workforce.
"Developing talent is essential to the future of our industry," said Mike Hulvey, president and CEO, RAB. "Through the National Radio Talent System and our Media Career Academies, we're introducing students to the power and opportunity within radio—today's leading audio platform—while equipping them with the skills and connections to build meaningful, long-term careers."
 
Additionally, over 100 students are attending the BEA Spring Conference and NAB Show in Las Vegas as RAB Student Scholars. The students participate in customized sessions, mentor matchups, curated exhibit-floor tours where they will network with exhibitors, discover career paths and gain a broadened view of radio broadcasting through this immersive experience. This is the 12th year of the program with over 1,200 students being introduced to the radio ecosystem underwritten by radio broadcasters.

About the National Radio Talent System

The National Radio Talent System, a division of RAB, produces Media Career Academies across America. It is the first and only program of its kind in the world, discovering and preparing the next generation of broadcasters by introducing them to radio and leading professionals. Since 2007, National Radio Talent System has empowered and inspired over 800 students nationwide with nearly 55 programs. For more information: nationalradiotalentsystem.com.

About RAB

RAB is the not-for-profit trade association representing America's broadcast radio industry. Its primary objective is to drive revenue growth through advocacy, providing the tools and resources to help the industry attract new sales talent to the medium and enhance industry professionalism through training and support. RAB serves more than 6,000 member stations in the U.S. and more than 1,000 member networks, representative firms, broadcast vendors and international organizations. Learn more at www.rab.com.  

Media Contact: press@rab.com