IABM Announces Lifelong Learning Manifesto

"The Lifelong Learning Manifesto is based on a 'strength in numbers' approach to improving opportunities for technical education, employment, and training. Every relevant employer, institution, association, and professional body can help address this issue through their own activities and by aligning themselves with others in an industry-wide campaign for the common benefit," said Roger Crumpton, director of education, training, and employment at the IABM. "We encourage broadcasters, technology suppliers, industry associations, and other media industry stakeholders to make a public commitment to the values and principles of lifelong learning by signing the manifesto."

By signing, companies and organizations publicly recognize their responsibility to develop and train the technologists and engineers needed to secure and sustain the growth of the sector. This responsibility includes eight actions ranging from creating awareness of the range of technical careers available to encouraging schemes that provide for work placements and create opportunities to gain work experience. Although no specific commitment to action is required to make a statement of support, signing organizations agree to have their names and brands associated with the substance of the manifesto and are willing to make a public statement to that effect.

"We commend the IABM in taking the initiative to address one of the most serious problems our industry faces — the lack of skilled technical labor across virtually every sector," said Clyde Smith, senior vice president of global broadcast technology and standards for Turner Broadcasting System. "Turner was proud to be one of the charter signers of the Lifelong Learning Manifesto, and we strongly encourage our colleagues in other companies and organizations to participate."

"We are delighted by the initial show of support for the IABM Lifelong Learning Manifesto from each and every element of the broadcast and media technology spectrum. Such support clearly demonstrates the congruence of opinion regarding the need for skills development and training in our industry and a collective intent to ensure it is delivered," said Peter White, director general of the IABM.

Any broadcaster, technology manufacturer, association, educational institution, or other organization involved in the broadcasting and media industries is eligible to sign the IABM Lifelong Learning Manifesto. For more information, interested parties may visit www.theiabm.org or stop by the IABM's booth N817 at the 2011 NAB Show. For a current list of participants, please visit

About The IABM

The IABM, the International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers, is the authoritative voice of the broadcast and media technology supply industry worldwide. Its wide range of services to members encompasses market research and intelligence, expert representation at standards bodies and broadcasting unions, executive networking opportunities, and preferential purchasing. A presence at every major broadcast tradeshow, the IABM also provides a valuable channel for communication between broadcast manufacturers, government, and regulatory bodies. Additional IABM activities include awards programs for innovation and scholarships designed to stimulate the development of the broadcast and electronic media industries on an international basis.