Someone You Should Know: Richard Friedel

Posted on December 18, 2025 in ATSC News

If you’ve spent any time in the world of broadcast technology, you already know the name Richard Friedel. After a distinguished career culminating as Executive Vice President of Corporate Engineering for Fox Television Stations, Richard now describes himself as “semi-retired” but anyone who has tried to get onto his calendar knows that’s only technically true. Today, he leads Broadcast.Advocate while continuing to serve as Chairman Emeritus of ATSC’s Board of Directors.

Semi-retirement hasn’t slowed him down. Richard spends much of his day on conference calls focused on ATSC 3.0, both in the U.S. and abroad, while also writing documents and presentations that help shape the technology’s ongoing evolution. “Little surprise,” he says, “it’s still very much ATSC 3.0 all day, every day.”

Fox has been involved with ATSC since the organization’s earliest days. When Richard took on responsibility for network operations, he became Fox’s representative to Art Allison’s ATSC 1.0 Implementation Committee. Years later, Fox technologist Clyde Smith encouraged deeper engagement in the effort that eventually grew into ATSC 3.0. Richard never looked back.

Richard keeps a close eye on nearly all ATSC planning and implementation activity. He remains actively involved in PT4, PT6, PT9, and IT3.

For Richard, the most exciting opportunities are global. “To bring the most advanced communications platform for wide distribution of information to the world is a responsibility,” he says. “Our membership developed this amazing technology with all of its flexibility, efficiency, and ability to evolve. There is nothing else like it, and the opportunities are endless.” For Richard, the most exciting opportunities are global.  Its ATSC’s future.

Richard and his wife Janet, whom he proudly calls “ten times smarter than me”, travel often, which leaves little room for pets. The couple borrows neighbors’ dogs when they want company on walks. Richard’s hobbies? Broadcasting (yes, really) and taking care of their houses.

Asked what he’d be doing if not working in broadcast engineering, he doesn’t hesitate. “I never wanted to be anything other than an engineer,” he says. “Even though my parents wanted a doctor.”

A Note from Richard

As my time on the ATSC Board comes to an end due to term limits, I want to express my gratitude. It has been a privilege to serve as part of the leadership team for the past 13 years. ATSC is an extraordinary community led by our remarkable President, Madeleine Noland. I’ve learned so much, made lifelong friends, and have been continually inspired by the dedication of our members. Thank you for placing your trust in me and allowing me to serve. I look forward to contributing in new ways in the years ahead. Wishing all of you a warm and happy holiday season.

Posted in ATSC News