In 2021, he became GM of WOWT-6, the NBC affiliate serving the Omaha-Council Bluffs market. It was a rise in responsibilities for an individual whose career in broadcasting began at WOW Radio in 1981. Now, he’s retiring.
For Jim McKernan, it will conclude experiences that include roles with Emmis Communications, Bonten Media, Quincy Media Inc. and, ultimately, Gray Media, WOWT’s current owner.
At WOWT, McKernan oversaw the completion of a new 25,000-square-foot broadcasting facility, launched a 3pm hour-long newscast, expanded WOWT’s streaming portfolio, and oversaw a year-long celebration of WOWT’s 75th anniversary. WOWT is the oldest television station in the state of Nebraska.
“The broadcasting world has been both challenging and rewarding,” McKernan said. “I would not trade my experiences or relationships for any other vocation. I have much gratitude for my great colleagues over the years and the communities we have served. I plan to do some part-time work — perhaps with a non-profit and use ‘repurpose’ as my ‘R word’ instead of ‘retirement.’”
McKernan’s final day at WOWT is schedule for Monday, June 2, and Gray Media has already begun a search for his replacement, led by Senior Managing Vice President Mike King.
