A Brief History

The Society's roots stretch back to 1961, when the Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE) and American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) passed a joint resolution calling for a "merger or consolidation into one organization." The two groups did finally join forces in 1963 forming what is known today as the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE).

The new organization was perceived by some as not addressing the needs of broadcast engineers. Because of the interest shown in response to an editorial in Broadcast Engineering magazine, written by eventual first SBE president, John Battison, an organizational meeting was held in Chicago during the NAB convention in April 1964. The group formed an organization devoted to the needs and interests of broadcast engineers that now is celebrating it's 43th anniversary.

The new organization was originally called the Institute of Broadcast Engineers (IBE). However, because some members feared there might be confusion in the similarity between the names of the IBE and the IBEW (international Brotherhood of Electrical Workers), the name was changed to Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) at that very first meeting.

From this original group of approximately 325, the Society has grown to more than 5,600 members. With more than 100 chapters located throughout the United States and internationally, SBE now commands a leadership position in the broadcast industry. Local SBE chapters provide services to members through meetings, technical seminars, certification examinations and fellowship.

The SBE Program of Certification, begun in 1977, helps individuals improve their skills through a national testing program. As the industry's most recognized evaluation service, SBE Certification provides important benefits to both members and employers. Those who have earned SBE Certification are proud of their accomplishment, and rightly so.

SBE also operates a National Frequency Coordination Program. With more than 150 volunteer coordinators, SBE provides a vital service to stations, networks and other users of broadcast spectrum needing information about auxiliary broadcast frequencies. Through the efforts of SBE, this important spectrum is used effectively and interference is minimized.

The Society continually monitors regulatory issues. Frequently, SBE files comments with the FCC and other federal and state agencies. In many cases, SBE is the only organization representing the technical interests of broadcast engineers on regulatory issues. 

Approximately 12 SBE Chapters host regional conventions each year. Most of the events combine both technical seminars and an equipment exhibition. At the seminars, expert instructors provide training on a wide variety of technical and managerial topics. The conferences provide attendees with the opportunity to improve their skills, while examining the latest in technology. SBE also offers a six-day intensive seminar on management for broadcast engineers.

In recent years, SBE has continued to provide services that benefit members and the industry. SBE has released several publications, some of those in conjunction with the Ennes Educational Foundation Trust. These Include Introduction to DTV Operator's Handbook. SBE maintains its own website at www.sbe.org that is visited by thousands of people every month.

Throughout its history, SBE has strived to advance the field of Broadcast Engineering and the professional development of the broadcast engineer by being in the forefront as changes in technology have taken place. SBE will continue to help its members stay on the leading edge of the broadcast industry by providing leadership, information, education and opportunities for recognition.

The national office of the Society of Broadcast Engineers is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, where a small full-time staff provides membership, certification and frequency coordination services and support. Additional information on membership in the Society is available at the SBE website, www.sbe.org, or by writing, e-mailing or calling the SBE National Office.

John Poray CAE. SBE Executive Director
Courtesy of SBE National

Last updated Saturday, May 05, 2007