Mr. Beck

WZIP General Manager

Mr. Tom Beck is the general manager at The University of Akron’s radio station WZIP-FM, located in Kolbe Hall. Over the years, he has been a major contributor to the station’s success as the nation’s top college radio station. Not only has Beck helped WZIP to become one of Northeastern Ohio’s most popular radio stations, he has also made it a great place to learn about radio and business, meet new friends, and gain lifetime experiences.

As WZIP’s general manager, Tom Beck is responsible for the entire radio station. He is the troubleshooter for every major problem at WZIP. When the university has a conflict with the station or a listener has a complaint about something broadcasting over the air, they speak with him. Although his job can be stressful, Beck always finds a way to keep it fun and interesting.

Along with his duties as general manager, Tom Beck is active in other aspects of education and the public sphere of life. He is an instructor for The University of Akron’s School of Communication, which involves teaching courses such as business professional speaking, effective oral communication, and introduction to public speaking and radio production. In his spare time, he also manages to serve in and contribute to several local community organizations and charities.

Tom Beck’s service in radio and education dates back to when he was 15 years old. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Slippery Rock State College in Pennsylvania, and has his Masters of Art in radio / television management from Ohio University in Athens. He taught at several high schools and colleges before he came to work at The University of Akron. He currently has over 32 years experience working in education and radio. When Beck took over the U of A’s radio station in 1978, then known as WAUP, there were only eight students, seven men and one woman. Over the years he has brought more women and people of all races, ages and cultures to the program, creating an integrated and cohesive staff. He has made a family that works together and runs by different kinds of people contributing in their own unique way.

Thanks to Tom Beck, WZIP has become The University of Akron’s shining example of a positive and diverse environment filled with educational experiences, friendships and fun. Beck gladly welcomes any student to WZIP who wishes to learn about radio, is willing to devote time out of their schedule, and is committed to maintaining a significant standard of academic performance.

Mr. Thompson

WZIP Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer at WZIP FM radio station is Mr. Blake Thompson. He selects, installs and repairs all the equipment at the radio station and also trains members how to use it. He loves working with the students and is always willing to help out with any problem no matter how busy he is. The most challenging thing about his job is keeping up to date with all the changes in radio. Computer glitches can be quite challenging too. But no matter how complex a problem can be, Blake always comes up with an answer.

Blake has worked at WZIP since October of 1980. In that time, he has rebuilt the entire station from ground up twice. Without his help the new station in Kolbe Hall would not be as high tech as it is. Thanks to him, our equipment is up to par, enabling us to effectively compete with the best commercial radio stations.

WZIP Transmitter Info
Antenna Location: Copley Township Ohio
Antenna Height: 810 Feet
Effective Power: 7500 Watts Directional
Transmitter: Harris Z5 CD w/ Digit Exciter