Fox Cities News

Dylan Eckhart, a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh (UWO), has begun his career as an on-air reporter at WAOW-TV in Wausau just weeks after earning his degree. Eckhart, who completed his studies in UWO’s radio TV film program in May 2025, is already covering major events such as the Green Bay Packers training camp.

During his time at UWO, Eckhart gained practical experience by announcing Titan basketball playoff games for campus radio and TV. He also traveled to Salem, Virginia, with fellow student Jacob Link to broadcast the UWO Women’s Basketball Final Four game live on WRST. His involvement extended across both radio and television; he worked as a play-by-play announcer on WRST and directed and produced content for Titan TV.

Eckhart was recognized for his work with several awards from organizations including the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association and College Broadcasters, Inc., honoring both his on-air delivery and production skills. At WAOW-TV, he now handles all aspects of reporting—shooting video, editing footage, writing scripts, and presenting stories solo for the evening news.

RTF instructor Wendall Ray noted Eckhart’s commitment: “Dylan was an outstanding RTF student,” said Ray. “He exemplifies what can happen when students immerse themselves in the opportunities provided by WRST and Titan TV.”

Justine Stokes, Titan TV General Manager and RTF instructor, highlighted how Eckhart broadened his skills late in college: “Dylan brought a wealth of knowledge of producing and was comfortable on the mic; he was just missing the TV broadcasting experience,” she said. “I think some students pigeonhole themselves to one area of the major, and don’t always see the benefit of working across different mediums. Dylan really saw the benefits of working in both radio and TV— and how that could make him highly desirable when he graduated.”

Eckhart attributes much of his readiness for local television news to UWO’s curriculum: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without UW Oshkosh,” he said. “Everything I’m doing now in the newsroom, I learned first through Titan TV and WRST.”

In a Q&A about his new role at WAOW-TV, Eckhart described starting out shadowing other reporters before quickly taking on solo assignments that included arranging interviews, shooting B-roll footage, writing scripts, recording stand-ups, editing stories together each day—tasks that mirrored those practiced during his education at UWO.

Reflecting on favorite college experiences like covering NCAA women’s basketball playoffs or traveling for broadcasts with classmates reinforced how hands-on opportunities prepared him for professional demands.

Family support played a significant role as well; upon securing his position at WAOW-TV following graduation uncertainty between radio or television paths: “They were absolutely thrilled… So when I got the offer from WAOW it felt like a huge relief,” Eckhart shared.

For current students considering media careers or entering UWO’s Radio TV Film program themselves,Eckhart advised getting involved early across multiple platforms to build diverse skills needed in today’s broadcast landscape.

He summarized: “I wouldn’t be where I am today…without my education at UW–Oshkosh. Everything I do on a daily basis…I have had experience with because of the radio TV film program.”