Text has been updated to correct Bertrand’s title.
Rob Bertrand is among those who lost their jobs when big public radio station WAMU in Washington, D.C., announced substantial staff cuts last week.
Bertrand was senior director of technology of the station, which is licensed to American University, for eight years. According to news reports, the station cut 15 positions in total.
“I’m not sure what’s next, but I’m excited for it,” Bertrand wrote on his LinkedIn page.
“This past week’s failure of AT&T’s cell network was sort of a terrifying reminder of the critical role that radio continues to play in our lives. There will be more. I want to remain in broadcasting. I think the work we do as broadcasters is so critically important, and it’s where my deepest passions lie.”
During his tenure at WAMU, Bertrand led construction of Washington’s largest community antenna system, a project that was profiled in Radio World. He also launched a new newsroom system, web CMS, CRM platforms and traffic and automation systems.
Prior to WAMU, Bertrand worked for a decade for CBS in New York, first as engineer at WCBS(AM) and later as chief engineer for CBS Radio. He holds a bachelor’s degree in visual art with a focus on video production and a master’s degree in organization development.
WAMU is an NPR member station and considered one of the country’s top public radio outlets; in January it was the top-rated station in the D.C. market, according to Nielsen Audio (AQH share for Persons 6+, Mon-Sun 6AM-Mid).
Andy Gunn remains in place as director of broadcast engineering. The station declined comment on Bertrand’s departure.
