The 2026 Illinois Broadcasters Foundation's "Media Career Academy" powered by RAB creates opportunities for new and emerging careers in media.  It is truly an incubator of well-rounded, well-educated college students, or recent graduates with a passion for media and a determination to get into the business.

This annual event will be held, May 11th, 2026, to May 15th, 2026, in Bloomington Illinois.

The five-day event will be held at the DoubleTree Conference Center and Hotel. The program will feature daily speakers, immersive learning experiences, visits to radio, TV and production facilities along with a Chicago media day. 

The Illinois Broadcasters Foundation's "Media Career Academy" powered by RAB is the campus-to-career connection most students need to begin their broadcast career. The Media Career Academy is an extension of the National Radio Talent System, which connects education programs from across the country.

Each student who participates will not only learn from dozens of industry professionals from around the country but will be able to network with them individually. This proves invaluable, as most will never have such an opportunity to meet and speak with these professionals. Likewise, these pros already have an introduction to students who are available for future open positions.

Upon completion of the Media Career Academy, students will further their networking opportunities with access to the RAB's Career Center, which is a part of the National Radio Talent System. This is where those in the industry can discover and hire NRTS graduates, who very likely will be tomorrow's industry leaders.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 IBF Media Career Academy.  A special scholarship program has been made available which covers the basic registration fees for participating students.

Class space is limited so early registration is important to hold your seat at the 2026 IBF Media Career Academy.