Gary Community School Corp.’s student radio station now has better frequency, reach and sound quality thanks to new equipment.

Located inside the Gary Area Career, WGVE 88.7 FM serves as a teaching ground for broadcast students. It also provides a community platform for news, education, events and resources.

Station manager Jeffrey Smith expressed his excitement over the station’s expanded capabilities.

“Over the past couple of years, WGVE 88.7 FM has embraced its role as one of the premier information outlets for the northwestern part of the state,” Smith said in a press release. “With that in mind, we have committed to upgrades and reliability that keep us competitively operating at the industry standard for media entities, both terrestrial and online.”

The upgrades included the installation of new firewall technology and surge protection to ensure the safety of equipment and technology. Features have also been put in place to provide better radio and live-streaming access.

“Our scholars are learning to operate this equipment and will be familiar with the most current software should they seek to enter the broadcast industry after high school or select a major in this field while in college,” Smith said.

Smith serves as the morning show host. Other on-air personalities play music, interview guests and share information daily. Career Center students produce newscasts, public service announcements and special programming.

“WGVE is definitely a jewel within our school district,” Dr. Yvonne Stokes, school superintendent, said. “Students are gaining experience that will not only improve their communications skills but prepare them for careers in radio and television.”