As the year comes to a close, I am filled with excitement and gratitude. I am excited to see where the future of the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association is headed with our updated image and dedication to ushering in a younger generation of broadcasters. I am also grateful to be able to step into this role again as the chair and to all the helping hands over this past year, as I took a leave of absence for my family. Thank you for your compassion and support.
The end of the year brings thoughts of the new year and new goals. When I think about what is ahead for 2024, I see technology continuing to grow and impacting our lives, especially artificial intelligence (AI). AI is a great tool to help us do our jobs. It can help find the right words, after you have written a radio script for the third time, or it can even edit a video as a deadline approaches. It does save time and can make the parts of our jobs we struggle with easier. However, I also see a risk in the use of AI. Again, it is a great tool, but it is exactly that. A tool to help do our jobs. It can become easy to use AI for even more parts of our job and soon, we might lose our personal touch on our media and it can contribute to unemployment.
It is these personal touches that connect us with the community we serve. AI does not remember when there was a restaurant across the street where an apartment complex now stands. Al never interviewed the elderly couple that had managed the restaurant for more than 30 years and how they always offered a free cup of coffee for those in need.
I agree that AI is here to stay, and we have to take advantage of it. Another good example is automation or data analytics. These are great uses for broadcasters, but at the same time it is important to remember that being a part of the community is still critical. AI is unable to be present in the community, physically and emotionally. These are the traits that make us human and able to make a human connection. It is these that make a difference on who people tune into to listen or watch. Lets keep a balance and understand that AI is there to assist you, but don’t use it as a replacement for a human.
AI cannot replace your voice. Your voice is part of what makes you, you! As we move forward, using tools to help us do our job are always welcomed. However, we have to make sure we stay a part of the community and use our voices. Our voices make the difference. Our voices are what bring the human perspective to our days and bring the interest and personal touch.
As we welcome in the new year, let us set strong goals, and be bigger parts of our community. We have the privilege of serving a diverse community where we call home. So as you welcome the new year, celebrate your success, set new goals, and embrace the tools and technologies that can help you achieve your goals.
I too look forward with anticipation and excitement to 2024 and wish you all the best wishes for the holiday season.
Lupita Montoto
WBA Board Chair
