Engineering Mentorship Program Expanded to Tech Vendors
Women working at radio technology vendors can now apply for a year-long leadership program to develop technical skills.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Job Search
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Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio and the NAB Leadership Foundation have opened the LAUNCH engineering mentorship program to women at technology vendors. The initiative aims to bolster female representation in technical leadership roles.
Why it matters
Broadcast operations are increasingly reliant on complex technical infrastructure, creating a strategic need for specialized leadership talent. This program seeks to address that gap by pairing emerging female professionals with seasoned industry leaders.
The LAUNCH program has operated since 2023 and provides a one-year mentorship term for selected participants. The program remains open to applicants until October 30, 2026.
The players
Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio
An organization focused on advancing female leadership and executive representation within the radio industry.
NAB Leadership Foundation
The charitable arm of the National Association of Broadcasters that focuses on training and workforce development for the broadcasting sector.
Eunice McNally
The 2025 mentee of the LAUNCH engineering program who represents the current cohort of leadership talent.
The details
The LAUNCH program facilitates one-on-one guidance by pairing an industry leader with a mentee for a full year of professional development. Candidates apply through the MIW website to gain access to networking and leadership training. The program is specifically tailored for those working in broadcast technology, reflecting the broader transition toward digital-first infrastructure within the industry.
Timeline
The mentorship program was established in 2023.
Eunice McNally was named as the 2025 program mentee in October 2025.
Applications for the 2026 program opened on October 6, 2026.
The application window closes on October 30, 2026.
The selected 2026 mentee will attend the NAB Show in 2027.
Market Landscape
This program aligns with the professional development ecosystem centered around the annual NAB Show. It marks a shift to include technology vendors, acknowledging that these companies are now critical stakeholders in the broadcast supply chain.
Owners and managers at broadcast tech firms should view this as an opportunity to identify and nominate high-potential staff for specialized leadership training. Evaluate your current retention and development strategy for technical staff against the requirements of the LAUNCH program.
The takeaway
Technical leadership is a competitive advantage as the broadcast industry pivots toward complex digital operations. Business leaders should consider how structured mentorship initiatives can help close internal talent gaps and professionalize their technical management track.
What happens next
The application window for the 2026 LAUNCH mentorship program is open until October 30, 2026.
Further reading
For more on industry hiring and professional growth initiatives, visit Job Search.
Live Poll
Do you believe industry-specific mentorship programs effectively help women advance in technical careers?
