GRAY MEDIA TRAINING PROGRAM SUMMER/FALL '26 - WDBJ

About Gray Media:

Today, we are a growing multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nation's largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets serving 117 full-power television markets that collectively reach approximately 37% of US television households. The portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest rated television station in average all-day ratings across 116 of such markets that were measured by Nielsen in 2025. We also own the largest Telemundo Affiliate group with 47 markets and Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies with the most advanced digital products and services. Our additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios.

About WDBJ:

WDBJ7, WZBJ, and WDBJ7.com are a Gray-owned dominant CBS-affiliated media powerhouse in beautiful Roanoke, Virginia. Known as “Your Hometown Station®”, WDBJ7 and WZBJ serve 26 counties across the Blue Ridge Mountain region and produce 58 hours of award-winning local news coverage, more than any of its competitors in the Roanoke/Lynchburg market.

For 70 years, WDBJ7 has been the number one station of choice for viewers from Roanoke to Lynchburg and across the New River Valley.

Job Summary:

Are you tired of just watching from the sidelines? Ready to stop "shadowing" and start actually doing the work that reaches thousands of people every single day? We’re looking for the next generation of media powerhouses, producers, reporters, weather experts, and sales executives who are hungry to dive head-first into the fast-paced world of local media. This isn't your typical "get the coffee" internship. The Gray Media Training Program is a high-octane, 10-week immersive experience where you don’t just learn the job, you own it. Whether you’re crafting the lead story for the evening news, tracking a cold front on our weather tech, or closing a digital ad deal, you’ll be a vital part of our award -winning team from day one.

The Training Program:

General Responsibilities:

What You’ll Do:

• Own the role: Step into the shoes of a producer, MMJ, meteorologist, or media sales executive and handle real-world assignments (yes, the kind that may go on air and online). 
• Drive digital engagement: Create content that lives beyond the TV screen, think social media, streaming apps, and web stories because we’re digital-first, always.
• Collaborate with pros: Work side by side with seasoned veterans who are the best in the business, gaining insights you won’t find in any textbook.
• Commit to the craft: Dedicate 25 hours per week for 10 weeks to mastering your specialty and building a professional-grade portfolio.
• Make an impact: Tell stories that matter to the community or help local businesses grow through innovative media strategies. 
• Build your future: Position yourself at the front of the line for full-time career opportunities within Gray Media’s network of 113 stations.

What You Bring:

• Current enrollment: You’re a college student (Junior or Senior status preferred) chasing a degree in Journalism, Communications, Sales, Marketing, or a related field.
• A "doer" mindset: You aren't afraid to get your hands dirty and take initiative; you’re here to work, not just watch.
• Digital savvy: You understand that media happens everywhere, from the big screen to the palm of someone’s hand.
• Strong work ethic: You bring urgency, organization, and a "can-do" attitude to every shift.
• Communication skills: You can tell a story, pitch an idea, or explain a forecast with clarity and confidence.
• Reliability: You’re ready to commit to the full 10-week program and the 25-hour weekly schedule.
• Passion for local: You care about the community and want to see how local media makes a real difference.

Why You’ll Love It Here:

• Real-world experience: You’ll graduate with more than just a line on your resume; you’ll have the experience of having done the job.
• Unprecedented access: With 113 stations across the U.S., you’re part of a massive, innovative network that’s leading the future of media.