On January 7, 1980, Chuck Mikowski walked through the doors of WZZM for his first day on the job. After 45 years of dedicated service, he’s retiring.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — If you’ve ever turned on the television to watch WZZM programming, you’ve seen his work.
He’s very rarely on the other side of the camera for 13 ON YOUR SIDE, but there’s no question that his work in the engineering department has helped the station through decades of technology transitions.
13 ON YOUR SIDE Vice President of Technology Chuck Mikowski’s first day at WZZM was Jan. 7, 1980. Back then, the new 13 ON YOUR SIDE studios were about 10 years old.
For 33 years of his 45 years of dedicated service, Chuck led the broadcast engineering department.
He’s not only witnessed broadcast history: he’s made it.
From leading WZZM through the analog broadcasting switch to digital signals to maintaining 13 ON YOUR SIDE’s broadcast tower, Chuck also served as TEGNA’s Chief sUAS Pilot, organizing the drone training program.
Chuck has the honor of being WZZM’s longest-serving employee.
“Chuck’s unmatched dedication, deep expertise in broadcast engineering and technology, and tireless commitment to maintaining our facilities have been vital to WZZM’s success,” 13 ON YOUR SIDE President and General Manager Dan Baylog said when announcing Chuck’s retirement to staff. “For 45 years, Chuck has seamlessly managed responsibilities at both 645 Three Mile and the transmitter site, often at odd hours of the day, ensuring everything runs smoothly. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes roles we rarely see but rely on every single day…Chuck’s contributions to WZZM are immeasurable, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt.”
13 ON YOUR SIDE placed a plaque outside the maintenance shop, which has been renamed in his honor as the Mikowski Maintenance Workshop.
Chuck plans to spend more time with his family and grandkids in retirement.
