The Mass Communication Program at Western Iowa Tech is excited to announce that it has been granted a Low Power FM (LPFM) construction permit by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This permit allows the department to establish and operate a new radio station, KWSR-LP, at frequency 94.3 FM. This will serve as an expansion of our current streaming station, Comet Radio, which has been in operation for 11 years.
This construction permit signifies a significant milestone for the Mass Communication program at Western Iowa Tech. This new station will provide students with invaluable hands-on experience in engineering, radio broadcasting, production, and management, enhancing their educational journey and better preparing them for careers in the media industry.
"Being granted a construction permit is a momentous achievement for our program," said Chris Mansfield, Mass Communication program coordinator. "This opportunity allows us to expand our curriculum and provide our students with practical skills that are crucial in today’s media landscape. We are excited about the potential KWSR-LP has to enrich both our academic programs and student experience."
The new radio station will serve as a dynamic platform for students to produce and broadcast a variety of content, including news, music, educational programs, sporting events and community-oriented shows. It will also offer a unique opportunity for collaboration across departments, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to learning and creativity.
The Mass Communication program’s students are already in the planning stages of equipment acquisition and engineering for constructing the station's facilities. The goal is to have KWSR-LP fully operational by the end of 2025, at which point it will begin broadcasting to the Sioux City area.
For more information about KWSR-LP or the Mass Communication program at Western Iowa Tech, please contact Chris Mansfield, Program Coordinator at 712-317-2218.