John Bisset, the engineer and educator who turned practical broadcast problems into lessons for generations of radio professionals, has died after an illness. He was 73, according to Radio World’s obituary, updated October 9.
Across 55 years in broadcasting, Bisset worked as an engineer, consultant and equipment-industry executive. His most enduring classroom was Workbench, the Radio World column he began writing in November 1990.
He produced approximately 920 columns, sharing hands-on ideas supplied by colleagues and readers. The column’s educational value extended to certification credit through the Society of Broadcast Engineers.
A legacy of practical knowledge
Radio World Editor in Chief Paul McLane says Workbench will continue, as Bisset wanted, with a new author to be announced.
For stations, his legacy raises a practical question: how much essential knowledge remains only in the head of one experienced engineer? Equipment documentation, safe maintenance procedures and mentoring can help preserve that knowledge for the next generation.
Source: Radio World’s obituary.