ESSEX JUNCTION, VT (MyKeeneNow) Broadcasting pioneer Ira Wilner was recognized for his extraordinary 50-year career in broadcast engineering at the Vermont Association of Broadcasters (VAB) Hall of Fame & Awards Gala, held this past Saturday at The Essex Resort & Spa.

Wilner, chief engineer for Monadnock Media Group, was honored with the Distinguished Service Award for his contributions to Vermont and New Hampshire broadcasting.

Although unable to attend the ceremony due to the recent passing of his wife, Eileen, Wilner’s absence was keenly felt as colleagues and peers celebrated his achievements. Bob LeRette, Monadnock Media Group’s vice president and general manager, was in attendance.

Steve Hamel, operations manager for Monadnock Media Group, accepted the award on Wilner’s behalf, urging the crowd of more than 250 attendees to applaud loudly in honor of the man whose career has shaped the region’s broadcast landscape.

Monadnock Media Group’s chief engineer Ira Wilner received the Vermont Association of Broadcasters Distinguished Service Award this past Saturday, accepted on his behalf by Steve Hamel, Monadnock Media Group’s operations manager./Ira Wilner

Wilner began his broadcasting journey in New York City, Hamel read from the event program, honing his skills as a college lab technician and introducing innovative digital audio technologies. Moving to New England in the 1970s, he founded Wilner Associates, a consultancy that became a trusted resource for local stations.

Among his many achievements, Wilner led the construction of WNNE-TV’s first studios in White River Junction, resolved critical RF issues to keep Vermont Public Television on-air, and designed Vermont Public Radio’s inaugural Colchester studio. His work wasn’t confined to major outlets—Wilner also helped establish community radio stations like WVEW-LP in Brattleboro and WOOL-FM in Bellows Falls, ensuring access to local voices and content.

Wilner’s technical expertise extended to state-wide emergency preparedness. He co-authored Vermont’s original Emergency Alert System (EAS) plan, helping to design the EAS network in collaboration with state emergency management.

“As we know, tragedies hit,” said Hamel, “The radio’s still on. It’s amazing.”

Known for his tireless work ethic, Wilner is celebrated for tackling challenges others might shy away from—whether scaling icy mountains to repair transmission towers or seamlessly converting analog systems to digital while keeping stations operational. He is known for always being willing to share his knowledge, even with competitors.

The gala also celebrated other achievements in broadcasting, including rising stars, Hall of Fame inductees, and community service awards.

Wilner’s decades-long dedication and innovations stood out as a highlight of the evening. His peers describe him as a mentor, innovator, and champion of public service. As the room erupted in applause and they gave Wilner a standing ovation, it was clear that his legacy is firmly cemented in Vermont’s broadcasting history.

Watch Hamel’s full award acceptance speech, congratulations and praise for his colleague: