WFMT Andrew Patner Fellowship (paid)

The Andrew Patner Fellowship at Classical WFMT Chicago is a unique opportunity for the next generation of students and early-career professionals in the arts, music, and media fields to gain practical experience at a prominent Chicago media organization.

By providing a paid opportunity to gain hands-on experience, the Andrew Patner Fellowship seeks to strengthen the pipeline of diverse and prepared applicants for professional media roles. The Fellowship provides a space in which participants can experience a variety of job functions and thereby refine their professional pathway.

GENERAL INFORMATION

·       The Andrew Patner Fellowship is open to individuals 18 years or older who are either currently enrolled in a program of higher education or have been out of school for 12 months or less.

·        Candidates should have a demonstrable interest in the arts (particularly music) as well as at least one of media, journalism, broadcasting, or audio production.

·        The current Fellowship is scheduled for January through March 2027, with specific dates to be determined with the successful candidate. Ideally the Patner Fellow will work full-time, however WFMT is open to structuring the Fellowship as a combination of part-time and full-time work, particularly for candidates based in the Chicago area.

·        The Fellow will be paid at the rate of $18 per hour.

KEY OPPORTUNITIES

·        Gain practical experience and broad perspective of the mission and operations of a prominent public media organization encompassing radio, TV, local news, and digital media.

·        Participate in the day-to-day operations of WFMT and receive mentorship from the WFMT team.

·        Assist in the production of WFMT programming including research and writing, audio production, and coordinating with artists and external organizations across a range of in-house programs and off-site productions.

·        Introduction to the leadership of WFMT’s parent organization, Window to the World Communications, Inc., and exposure to institutional functions including development, marketing, and engineering operations.

SKILLS

·        Knowledge of classical music, performers, and performing arts organizations, particularly in Chicago.

·        Strong writing and communication skills with the ability to formulate compelling narratives around classical music and the arts. Attention to detail with the ability to multi-task and work independently.

·        Audio production experience, particularly with Adobe Audition, and experience with photo editing is helpful.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants should submit a resume and a cover letter expressing specific qualifications and interest in the Fellowship.

Application Deadline: Applications will not be accepted after Monday, November 16, 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Window to the World Communications, Inc., the parent organization of WTTW and WFMT, is an Equal Opportunity Employer.