Emily Reigart:What sparked your interest in radio?
Ron Muffley:My interest in radio began during my childhood years listening to a Christian radio station in Pennsylvania.�
Reigart:What was your first job in the broadcast industry?�
Muffley:My first job in the broadcast industry was as a morning announcer at BBN radio station WHPE(FM) in High Point, N.C.�
Reigart:Did you have a mentor or early influence as an engineer?
Muffley:My mentor was Rex Luther, who was the engineer at WHPE. Rex was the consummate engineer and provided a plethora of education and guidance during my years as an announcer and station manager.
Reigart:What�s your favorite radio or audio product of all time?�
Muffley:My favorite audio product was the invention of digital recording and playback media, which eliminated the mechanical nightmare of reel to reel and cart tape and cumbersome head alignment.�
Reigart:Looking back at technical projects, facility work or other challenges, what are you most proud of, or what might your fellow engineers find most interesting?
Muffley:During my career, I am most thankful for the privilege of managing the building of 82 Christian radio stations in 20 states and 12 foreign countries. However, my pride is not in numbers, but in the amazing opportunity of bringing the Gospel message to people who have not yet heard.
Reigart:How do you think radio broadcast engineering has changed since you started?
Muffley:Since my start in broadcast engineering, the biggest change I have witnessed is the transition from live analog origination and transmission to entirely digital origination, storage and transmission.��
Reigart:�What do you think is the most important issue currently facing radio broadcasters? And what is your stance on it?
Muffley:In my opinion, the most significant issue facing broadcasters today is the continuing scarcity of broadcast engineers. Unless significant strides are made in interesting, educating and recruiting young broadcast engineers, I fear that the broadcast medium may literally fade away because no one is available to build and maintain broadcast facilities.
Reigart:What advice would you give broadcast engineers who are just starting out in their career?
Muffley:My best advice for young broadcast engineers is to develop a love for the medium. Beyond just a job, broadcast engineering can provide an extremely interesting, challenging and fulfilling career. It grows on you.��
Reigart:You just retired as the Bible Broadcasting Network�s engineering manager after 39 years with the organization. What�s next?�
Muffley:My wife, Naila, and I look forward to moving to Colorado Springs. The reason is multi-faceted: to continue in Christian ministry as the opportunities are available there; to enjoy the beauty and the outdoor activities (hunting, fishing, skiing, etc.) that Colorado provides; and to be closer to our family during our senior years.
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