Students in the Sports Media and Communication program in Youngstown State University’s Department of Strategic Communication and Media recently stepped out of the classroom and into aviation history. The group visited the Wingfoot Lake Airship Hangar in Suffield, the oldest airship facility in the United States, for a behind-the-scenes look at how the world-famous Goodyear Blimp supports major sporting broadcasts.
The experiential learning trip, arranged by senior lecturer Paul Ditchey and Adam Earnheardt, provided students with rare access to the operations behind one of the most recognized icons in aerial videography.
During the visit, students engaged directly with pilots, technicians and media professionals who operate the airship. Discussions focused on the technical and logistical challenges of capturing live content from above. Students learned how the crew coordinates with network directors on the ground to deliver the aerial visuals featured in major broadcasts, including the Super Bowl and the NBA Finals…