The 2026 Elections for Officers and Governors of the Society open on Monday, 17 August, and close at 11:59pm GMT on Monday, 28 September. All Active category members are eligible to vote (this includes Professional, Executive, Fellow, Retired, Life, and Honorary members).
All voting members are eligible to vote for Board Officer Candidates as well as Governor Candidates within their Region.
For SMPTE policies and procedures regarding Society Elections, including determination and appeal of election results, please see Section 9.5 of the Governance Operations Manual.
To vote, visit https://smpte.simplyvoting.com/ and enter your SMPTE Member Number and Voter Password. Your password is randomly generated by Simply Voting and will be emailed to you when the elections open. You will also receive a unique direct voting link that will automatically log you in and bring you to your available ballots.
If your login was successful, you will be shown a menu listing all current ballots in which you are eligible to vote. If you have not yet voted, you may click on the ballot name and an electronic ballot will appear. If you are not part of a Section or if your Section's ballot is not yet open, you will not see any available ballots.
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Please contact elections@smpte.org.
If you do not know your Membership Number, simply log in to www.SMPTE.org, and you will find your member number at the top of the right hand column on the "My Account" page. If you are unable to log in, please contact membership@smpte.org or +1-914-205-2382.
Once you have made your selections, you will have an opportunity to review and confirm your choices before submitting your vote. Once you have submitted your ballot, your votes cannot be changed. You will no longer have access to the ballot. You are also able to print a confirmation of your votes with a unique ID and timestamp, should you wish to have a copy for your records.
David Long
RIT – Rochester Institute of Technology
I am a longtime volunteer and contributor, most recently serving as Eastern Region Governor and Governor-at-large from 2021-2025. I have been an active SMPTE member since 1999. I was first introduced to the society through my role as an imaging systems engineer at Eastman Kodak. In 2007, I joined the faculty at Rochester Institute of Technology and started our BS degree in motion picture science. I am now Director of MAGIC Spell Studios, a multidisciplinary research and teaching center focused on digital media at RIT, and has recently been promoted to full professor. While serving SMPTE, I have had the honor of contributing in numerous ways, from Rochester Section Officer to RIT Student Chapter Advisor, Education Director, Board of Editors member, Awards committee member, and contributor to SMPTE ATC and Future of Cinema Conference planning committees. I am also a proud SMPTE Fellow and have produced and taught a course for SMPTE Education on imaging system fundamentals. I am also Education Co-chair for SMPTE’s RIS for On-set Virtual Production.
Goals: I am looking forward to the opportunity to serve SMPTE as Education VP. I’ve been appointed Education Director under prior VPs and have given my time consistently to our annual conferences, to the Motion Imaging Journal, and to various of our other education initiatives. I believe strongly in balancing SMPTE’s reputation for practical and applied engineering education with a vigorous attraction of frontier research contributions and scholarly investigations in the science and technology that underlie our industry. I believe SMPTE should be the first choice for education for professionals in our industry at both ends of the knowledge and competency spectrum. We should have offerings that introduce the fundamentals of motion pictures to those brand new to our workflows right alongside rigorous advanced topics and certifications in emerging standards and systems for our veterans. I also believe strongly we should embrace cooperation with other professional organizations and societies that have compatible missions, from computer graphics, digital games, visual effects and animation to emerging production and broadcast. Our world is increasingly multidisciplinary and multimodal,dal and I believe we can thrive through collaboration. I very much look forward to contributing all I can if selected to serve.
John Ferder
Qvest.US
I have worked in the broadcast engineering industry since my junior year at Marquette University (BSEE), and, like many of my colleagues, joined SMPTE for access to the standards I would need to complete my design tasks and otherwise do my various jobs. I soon realized that there were many opportunities to contribute to the success of SMPTE, and, because of all the help my SMPTE colleagues gave me early in my career, I felt that I owed it to them to serve. That feeling of obligation became one of satisfaction. As I have developed in my career, I have felt that it is more important to contribute to the success of SMPTE and recruit as many new members as I can.
I have served in various positions at the Section and Society levels. Each has presented new challenges and opportunities for growth. Although I am currently in the Rocky Mountain Section, I still collaborate with colleagues in the New York Section to seek out and promote new Fellows, new members, and new educational opportunities. I hope to do more of that in Rocky Mountain Section as well.
Goals: As SMPTE evolves to meet the new challenges in our second century, I feel that my experience as Secretary/Treasurer will help to keep the Board of Governors focused on that evolution in a constructive way. I see many opportunities for growth with the US Sections as well as our worldwide Regions. I am always inspired when I see members of Student Chapters at NAB and MTS get involved. Many of the past Student Paper awardees have gone on to contribute to SMPTE and to our educational and recruiting efforts. I want to focus on working with them to locate and establish more Student Chapters in the US and abroad.
I started in Hong Kong film industry as a messenger in 1969 working for Salon Films (H.K.)Ltd, and retired from the same company after 50 years of work there with my last job position as General Manager – Production and Technical Service in Oct 2019, and continue to stay in the film industry striving to contribute my knowhow, experience, connection etc. to support film industry on trainings/seminars/workshops etc., on forth coming motion imaging technology including but not limiting to recent years on On set virtual production and AIGC focusing on Filmmaking.
Since I joined SMPTE as Student member in Hollywood section in 1974, I have enjoyed the spirit and professionalism of SMPTE community ever since. On top of that, I have built extensive network of professionals in Hong Kong, China, USA and Europe etc., such networking support my mission above.
Due to extensive experience with SMPTE since 1974 including being SMPTE-HK section chair for more than 14 years, Tony fully realize that there is one very Unique feature of SMPTE, i.e the immerse “Professional Community” covering world wide footprint and echoing the slogan of “We are ONE,” however, my far cry is how to explore and promote such value to current SMPTE Members as well as to attract new members in both individual basis as well as corporate members.
Goals: My goal is to lobby SMPTE Board plus Asia-Pacific Region to unify, coordinate and explore synergy effect to explore the new frontier of contributing “Real Values” to SMPTE members in the Region.
ational 
I am Chief Sales Officer at Technologie Optic.ca, a Canadian provider of high-performance connectivity and infrastructure solutions for broadcast, media, and data-driven environments. With over 20 years of experience in the audiovisual and telecommunications industries, I have built a strong reputation for bridging traditional broadcast workflows with emerging IP and high-performance computing ecosystems.
I have worked closely with broadcasters, system integrators, and technology partners across Canada and internationally, supporting the deployment of robust and scalable media infrastructures. My expertise spans optical networking, mission-critical connectivity, and the evolution of media transport toward software-defined and data-centric architectures.
I have been actively involved with SMPTE for many years and have held leadership roles within the Montreal/Quebec Section, serving as Section Manager from 2017 to 2024 and currently as Section Chair. In these roles, I have contributed to strengthening regional engagement, promoting SMPTE standards, and expanding outreach to adjacent sectors such as data centers and AI. I am recognized for my collaborative leadership style and his ability to connect people, technologies, and ideas to advance the future of the media industry
I am a Life Member and Fellow of the SMPTE. As a SMPTE Governor, I intends to continue my work and promote SMPTE in the Latin America region. I have been an active member of SMPTE and served as Governor for two terms, during which I was responsible for SMPTE activities in Latin America. I am also a member of IEEE (International of Electrical and Electronics Engineers).
I have has served as President, Vice President, and Director of SET (Brazilian Society of Television Engineering) for several terms, since its foundation in 1988 to the present date. I also served as Chairman of the Digital TV Group created by the Association of the Brazilian Broadcasters (ABERT) and SET to study and plan the introduction of Digital TV in Brazil. I was a Commissioner of the Social Communication Advisory Committee of the Congress Upper House in Brazil, which is responsible for studying and advising the Brazilian Congress Upper House on matters concerning Telecommunication, Television, Radio, New Media, and regulatory and technological issues. I have also served as a Council Member of IBC (International Broadcasting Convention), where the Council is responsible for the IBC Congress, including discussing and indicating themes and people to participate in panels, as well as managing prizes and awards. Additionally, I have served as a Council Member of the SBTVD (Brazilian DTV System) Forum, created by the Brazilian Government to finalize the ISDB technical specification and harmonize the introduction of Digital TV in Brazil, with participation from broadcasters, consumer electronics manufacturers, universities, and members of Government.
I have received several honors and awards for my contributions to the television and broadcasting industry. In 2004, SET (Brazilian Society of Television Engineers) awarded me for my contribution to the evolution of TV in Brazil. In 2007, I received recognition from ITE Japan (Institute of Image and Television Engineering). I was named a Life Member of SMPTE. In 2012, ABERT (Brazilian Association of Broadcasters) recognized me with an award for my great contribution to the growth of Brazilian broadcasters. In 2013, the Japanese Government awarded him the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, for his contribution to the introduction of Digital TV in Brazil and South America. In 2016, in Los Angeles, SMPTE recognized him as a Fellow member with a special award for his significant contribution to the development of the television and cinema industry.
Goals: My goal as a SMPTE Governor is to continue strengthening SMPTE’s presence and engagement throughout the Latin America region. I intend to support the Society’s activities, encourage greater participation and collaboration among industry professionals, and promote the exchange of knowledge and expertise across the region.
I'm a business development consultant with over three decades of experience in post-production, distribution, and technical services in the entertainment industry. I run my own company, AJS Media, Inc., and currently consult for The Hollywood Film Company on content management, preservation, and restoration — spanning physical, cloud, and AI-embedded workflows. I'm also driving organic growth across traditional media and entertainment while exploring new verticals like aerospace and automotive.
Earlier in my career, I held executive roles at THX Ltd., DreamWorks SKG, Turner Broadcasting, and The Walt Disney Company, gaining deep insight into the entertainment industry's operational and technical landscape. I hold a B.S. in Global Business Management from the University of Phoenix and an A.A.S. in Communications, Television, and Film from Monroe Community College in Rochester, NY. I'm active in the Hollywood Professional Association (HPA) and the Entertainment Globalization Association (EGA), and I serve as a 1st Lt. in the Civil Air Patrol, specializing in mission scanning and aerial photography.
Goals: In 2019, I received the Citation for Outstanding Service from the Hollywood Section of SMPTE in recognition of 35 years of service, and I remain a committed advocate for SMPTE's mission today.
I’ve been labelled a “reluctant leader” on many occasions. I prefer to be more of a technologist, problem solver, teacher, coach, and innovator than an administrator or politician. As the son of a university professor, I strive to continually learn, strengthen my expertise, and build relationships. People naturally look for guidance and judgement from a trusted advisor.
I have been a member of SMPTE for about 25 years. For most of that time, I’ve been an engineer participating on a number of project groups and committees as subject matter expert in data management and security, production technologies, and digital photography. I’ve also served as a consultant, speaker, conference executive and chair, Hollywood Section (Board) Manager, and Hollywood Section Chair. And, I currently serve on SMPTE’s international executive Board as Hollywood Region Governor representing Southern California, Arizona and Nevada.
Goals:
We face a number of ever-changing technology challenges and perhaps even existential threats. It would be my great honor to continue serving as a trusted advisor to the industry in the role of SMPTE Region Governor.
I’m Jeff Cohen, and I’m pleased to be running for a third term as USA - NY Region Governor. I’m a Life Fellow of the Society, having been an active member since 1980, and a recipient of the Citation for Outstanding Service to the Society. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving SMPTE in several leadership roles, including NY Governor, Section Chair, Secretary/Treasurer, and Manager. I have organized our Winter Party and Summer Picnic for several years. I initiated the Friends of SMPTE NY sponsorship program. Additionally, I’ve produced numerous section meetings over the years, introduced Zoom-based NY section meetings during COVID, and organized a SMPTE-sponsored technical seminar track at the NAB NY conference.
Professionally, I’ve spent the past decades in the media technology industry, including leadership roles with Sony, LG Electronics, Avid, Chyron, and other leading technology companies. I am also a longstanding voting member of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Technical Emmy Committee.
Goals: For the past several years, I’ve been actively engaged with the Board of Governors and SMPTE leadership in the Society’s efforts to strengthen the organization and advance it. I believe that continuing to contribute as an active and experienced member of the Board of Governors can provide valuable continuity as we build on that progress. Looking ahead, I’m particularly interested in helping to advance sustainable fundraising, effective membership development, and planned giving initiatives—areas that I believe can strengthen the Society in the long term. Thank you for the opportunity to continue serving SMPTE and its members. I would be honored to earn your support for another term as NY Regional Governor
I am a 35+ year veteran of the M&E industry. I have been fortunate enough to have graduated from the University of California at Berkeley, and my first job was as a forensic accident reconstruction engineer using 2 & 3D animation tools and analog editing equipment. I’ve been a member of the SF Bay Area Section on and off my whole career and joined in earnest in 2004. I have participated as Section Manager for the San Francisco Section, as well as Governor for the USA - Western Region.
Goals: My interest in SMPTE is to continue the important work guiding the tools of communication with the same cunning and resolve that has been characterized the organization for the last 100+ years. I believe the best way to ensure SMPTE continues to lead innovation in an orderly manner is to appeal to and focus on today’s students. Those students need a conduit from their dreams as undergrads to gainful employment working as the digital contractors of the future.
I have worked in the broadcast and professional AV industry since receiving my BSc in Communications
Engineering from the University of Plymouth, UK. My first jobs were with the BBC and Thames TV in London.
Subsequent projects included the UK Houses of Parliament, Canal+ Paris and TGRT Istanbul. In 1995 I began
work with Sony in the United States as a systems designer and proposal manager. Career highlights included
projects for Google, Microsoft, PBS Las Vegas, UNLV, Verizon FIOS, and Warner Brothers. Subsequent to the
sale of Sony’s systems integration division I was assigned to establish a European office for Ascent Media.
I have seen multiple changes in technology throughout my career. SMPTE keeps me abreast of developments. Given my longevity in the industry, I have a broad understanding and a wide range of contacts in all subject
matters. I served as section chair of the San Francisco section, revitalizing it with increased membership; re-established
regular monthly meetings and annual area conferences. I have published Journal papers and presented at the
NAB, PBS TECON and SMPTE conferences. I currently serve on the SMPTE Journal Board of Editors.
Goals:
SMPTE needs to remain relevant. Setting and managing standards and providing professional development is
core to the mission. As a regional governor my focus will be to ensure that the region has the support and
resources necessary to keep their members up to date on the latest trends and developments.
After starting my broadcast career in 1984 with 4 years at the BBC, I then joined at Sky TV at its inception completing over 36 years. Following various leadership rolls at the compant I was ultimately Chief Engineer for Broadcast Strategy before his “soft retirement” in 2025. I now involve myself in consultancy within the industry. Recognition includes a SMPTE Fellow and Honorary Fellow of the BKSTS.
Goals: I was central to Sky’s technology development through the transitions from analogue to digital, HD, UHD and HDR as well as the evolution of audio from Stereo through surround to Immersive. Other involvements include the short-lived 3D, 360VR and the development of the “Sky Glass” Television product. Having sat and represented Sky in many industry bodies and on standards groups I am still passionately involved in all things entertainment and TV related. I was the SMPTE UK Section Chair from its UK relaunch in 2012, until 2016 and currently represent the UK as SMPTE’s United Kigndom Region Governor.
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