The Public Television Programming Association is an organization solely dedicated to the professional development of public television programming professionals by providing resources that enrich, inspire, and educate. We are a trusted partner and essential resource for programming professionals in the ever-changing industry of broadcast and digital curation, distribution and consumer viewing trends. PTPA offers a collegial atmosphere to trade best practices and networking, professional development and mentoring opportunities to help programmers connect public television stations to their local communities.
PTPA’s GOALS
- To enhance the skills of its members
Keeping programming professionals up-to-date about the latest developments in programming is a foremost goal, but PTPA recognizes that many members also play an integral role in station management, fundraising, operations, and public relations activities. Mutual understanding and/or cross-training in multiple disciplines is becoming a must at many local stations, fostering cooperation and economic, effective station operations. PTPA provides information and perspectives that are applicable in all areas, helping members become more indispensable, valued employees.. - To refine PTV programming as a profession and promote respect for its contribution to the success of public television
New technology and a changing industry landscape are affecting public television and its stations. PTV programming and services may simply multiply as they evolve, or morph into something quite different. But it will always be necessary to decide how to deliver programs to the local community in ways that serve, satisfy, and engender the support of the station. This “evolving role of the programmer” is a central focus of PTPA. - To increase the value of public television by providing an informed programming perspective to policymakers, national agencies, and producers
PBS, CPB, and national producers frequently seek the input of PTPA and its members. PTPA members are frequently asked to serve on national advisory committees and on planning committees for PBS and other national meetings. PTPA is valued as a venue for producers and programmers to discuss ways to improve the effectiveness of public television programming. - To provide mentoring, networking, and information-sharing opportunities
Members new to programming may request a mentor to help them make the most of their first national meetings. The mentors serve a wide range of duties – from helping neophytes decode the long list of industry acronyms, to telling them who to call with the endless array of questions that arise as they begin their careers. Members are also eligible to participate in Monthly Programming Strategies (MPS) conference calls to discuss upcoming schedules, or to mobilize the participation of the entire PTPA membership to brainstorm problem solutions to take advantage of timely opportunities. - To recognize, nurture and reward excellence within the profession
Each year PTPA coordinates the nomination and selection of the Charles Impaglia Programmer of the Year Award, which recognizes a role model programmer in the system. The Programmer of the Year must demonstrate excellent programming skills in the local market, programming creatively and effectively within the PTV mission, and must show a willingness to share experience and knowledge with others on a system-wide basis, offering support to other programmers and to other individuals at his or her station. The annual PTPA awards banquet also recognizes scheduling prowess with several Golden Grid awards, rewarding creativity and local audience appeal in a programmer’s schedule. Each year, PTPA also coordinates the nomination and selection of the Jerry Trainor Award, which recognizes exemplify leadership and extraordinary mentorship among programmers. On occasion, PTPA salutes a Lifetime Achievement Award winner for their longtime contribution to the profession of PTV programming.
For more information, please contact TRAC Media Services at (520)299-1866 or ptpa@tracmedia.com