Alumni Career Feature
Tim Hess
We feature alumni with interesting careers from a variety of career areas. To find out more about the alumnus profession contact them via the e-mail provided. Or if you are interested in being featured, e-mail us at alumni@pct.edu.
Tim Hess
- A.A.A., Broadcast Communications, 1998
- WSLS News Channel 10
- THess@wsls.com
Tim’s Background
Tim Hess took an interesting approach to choosing his educational path. The Berwick, Pennsylvania, native started as a general studies student at Penn College. When it came time to choose a specific curriculum, he opened the college catalog, closed his eyes, and pointed his finger. What he pointed to was the associate’s degree in broadcast communications.
Not long after college graduation, Tim decided to move to Myrtle Beach with a few friends and explore the business of broadcast communications. After working a variety of positions in this field, Tim was hired by Media General, Inc. as a photojournalist for WBTW News 13. It didn’t take long for Tim’s talents to show. He transferred to WSLS News Channel 10 in Roanoke, Virginia. Six months later, Tim advanced his position to Director of Photography. Tim’s long list of awards and career highlights includes two Emmy Awards from the Washington, D.C. chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Advice
When asked to describe the most valuable aspect of his Penn College education, Tim noted the on hands-on training. According to Tim, exposure to the field of broadcasting is essential. He encourages students to participate in co-ops and internships to achieve the added hands-on experience. Tim felt more prepared when he entered the industry than other individuals who started at the same time. It is a hard industry to break into and those interested must possess the technical knowledge and prior experience. He also emphasizes training in front of and behind the camera. To be successful, you must know and understand the responsibilities of the support roles around you.
Future Plans
What’s next for Tim Hess? Tim has an interest in becoming a news director. Although he may explore this avenue, he is very content with his current career. He loves the fast paced nature and challenges of his job. From covering such events as the “D.C. Sniper” and Hurricane Katrina to his award-winning documentary entitled “Getting Out Alive”, where he and reporter, John Carlin, worked with local fire departments and families to show how perfectly functioning smoke detectors don’t always wake sleeping children, he and his camera crew are constantly ready to help keep the public informed.
