“My career as a farm broadcaster began in August 2015,” said Katie Wilson (WSMI, Litchfield, IL).” She was working as a County Farm Bureau Manager in northern Illinois and “the job was in the wrong location and not a perfect match.” In her second year of the working world, she began searching for a new job. She was born and raised in Litchfield, IL, on a small grain and livestock farm. “We did things the ‘old-fashioned’ way. Cows ran on pasture. I had a few horses and a donkey just for fun. Our neighbor farmed our land. The farm remains the same today. Growing up around livestock and on the farm, I've always had a love for animals and a passion for agriculture.” She was involved in FFA all four years of high school serving as Chapter Reporter and President her junior and senior years. After graduation, she attended Illinois State University. “I started college as an animal science major and quickly learned that the math and science classes weren't for me. I changed my major to agricultural communications and leadership. Interestingly, I never dreamed of going into radio. The thought never even crossed my mind, but here I am. I am blessed to have a job that I love in the town where I grew up.”
When she started with WSMI in August 2015, the only radio experience she had was being interviewed by Rita Frazer and recording a couple of public service announcements in college. “What was I getting myself into? I have always been an independent person with a strong work ethic, so the job was a good fit. I jumped in head first with little to no training, and it was basically sink or swim. Luckily, I didn't drown! The experiences I've had, and the things I've learned in only a year and a half are amazing!” She added, “At WSMI, we pride ourselves on providing local news, local farm news, and local high school sports. We are family owned – Talley Broadcasting Corporation – and for that I am thankful. I am responsible for producing two, eight-minute farm shows per day (morning and noon hour), in which I try to incorporate a local interview or some sort of local farm news daily.” She explains, “My interviews include local farmers, FFA students, agronomists, insurance agents and ag business people. I also manage a few of our advertising accounts. The spring and summer months are the busiest times of year for the station. I help with remote broadcasts and spend a lot of time at county fairs and local festivals. Also, I try to make the rounds to some local farms. Other events that I travel to throughout the year include the National FFA Convention, Farm Progress Show, and the Illinois State Fair.” She emphasizes, “I think my favorite part about radio is the people I get to meet, both locally and afar. The only reason I even applied for my position was because I liked people, and I was told numerous times that ‘anyone can learn the radio side of things.’” She observed, “I never imagined being able to put on a press pass and basically ask to speak to whoever I wanted. That's pretty cool, and scary! The most ‘famous’ person I've interviewed to date is Chris Soules (The Bachelor) at the 2015 National FFA Convention.” Katie would like to thank all her fellow NAFB members. “You're another reason I like my job so much. I have yet to meet many of you, but if I ever need help, I know that there will always be someone willing to lend a hand. Anyone I've talked to at NAFB Convention has been nothing short of welcoming and kind, and that says a lot about our organization. I have a lot to learn, but I'm enjoying the process and strive to keep improving. Thanks for showing this rookie the ropes, and I look forward to many more broadcasting adventures,” she concludes.
