An old acquaintance has led Aikman Chambers to a new job. An STAA member, Chambers is joining High Country Radio in Boone, NC as News and Sports Director.
“The opportunities for me in this job seem to be endless,” Chambers enthuses. “Between being the News & Sports Director to the connections I already have and have yet to make with nearby Appalachian State University, I truly believe the best for my career is yet to come and High Country Radio in my launching pad.”
Familiar face
Chambers’ new boss is a fellow STAA member and the man who suggested Chambers join STAA in 2021. “Dave Thomas was the play-by-play voice for James Madison University football and basketball. We talked one day about sportscasting and radio. To make a long story short, he became the new Ops Manager for High Country Radio back in the fall and everything fell in line for our paths to come together.”
Though still in his early 20s, Chambers is already in his eighth year in radio. His career started after his sophomore year in high school as a board-op and on-air talent in West Jefferson, NC. Since then he’s been a host, producer, play-by-play broadcaster and account executive at multiple stations in the Tar Heel State.
Influential voices
Chambers’ love for sportscasting is rooted in the voices he listened to while growing up. That includes former Appalachian State voice David Jackson.
“Hardly ever did a football Saturday go by that I was not tuning into 97.3FM WKBC to hear David Jackson,” Chambers reminisces. “My other [influence] was Steve Martin with the Charlotte Hornets/Bobcats. Steve and Dell Curry, I felt, was a great team together. And I always loved how Steve was just so smooth and easy-going with his delivery. Also current Charlotte Hornets play-by-play man Eric Collins is fantastic. His enthusiasm and jolts of excitement are something I try to mold into my style.”
Chambers believes that being candid helped him land his new role with High Country Radio. “My ability to be honest about what my desires were as it pertains to daily tasks, along with hours and even money. Management here was honest with me and I feel the trust we built during the multiple meetings we had played a big role.”
And now Dave Thomas — the man who told Chambers about STAA – is Chambers’ boss.
“Dave told me how great STAA was for sportscasters and he was right. It’s worth every single penny each month,” Chambers grins.