KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Vermont Association of Broadcasters (VAB) will honor Ira Wilner, chief engineer with Monadnock Media Group, with the 2024 Distinguished Service Award this weekend.

The award recognizes his 50-year career in broadcast engineering across Vermont and New Hampshire. The award will be presented at the VAB Hall of Fame & Awards Gala on November 16 at The Farmhouse at Essex Resort & Spa.

Wilner began his career in broadcasting in New York City, where he gained early hands-on experience as a college lab technician and set up a carrier-current station at Queens College. His work introduced him to emerging digital audio technology and laid the foundation for his future in broadcast engineering.

In the 1970s, Wilner moved to New England and founded Wilner Associates, a consultancy that brought his expertise to numerous local stations, including WTSA in Brattleboro and WCFR in Springfield. His projects have included setting up mountain-top transmission towers, building WNNE-TV’s first studios in White River Junction, and designing Vermont Public Radio’s original studios. These efforts established him as a leading technical expert and innovator in New England’s broadcast scene.

Wilner’s commitment to keeping stations operational under any conditions is legendary. Known for trekking through difficult terrain and severe weather to restore transmission systems, he has consistently prioritized public service and community connection. He also played a key role in creating the Vermont Emergency Alert System, a network that remains crucial for state emergency communications.

In addition to his work with established stations, Wilner has supported community radio initiatives, helping WVEW-LP in Brattleboro and WOOL-FM in Bellows Falls secure licenses and go live. He continues to mentor new engineers, serves on the State Emergency Communications Committee, and is active in organizations like the Society of Broadcast Engineers and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

The Nov. 16 gala will celebrate Wilner’s career, which he describes as a journey shaped by both technological advancements and a deep dedication to broadcasting.