Year Born: 1927
Year Died: 2004
Year of Induction: 1995
Pioneer – Member of CAB Hall of Fame
Davis, Stanley Warren “Stan” (1927-2004)
The founder of S.W. Davis Broadcast Technical Services of Ltd. of Vancouver was hired as a technician at CKMO (later C-FUN) Vancouver in 1947 after graduating from the Radio Communications Centre. In 1953, he moved over to CKWX under Chief Engineer Charlie Smith and assisted in the construction in 1955 of the CKWX building and the new 50 kw transmitting plant in 1957. In 1958, he became Chief Engineer of C-FUN and supervised the construction of new studios and a 10 kw transmitter.
It was during this period that Stan decided to open his own business and to provide technical services to stations city-wide and province-wide. In June, 1962 S.W. Davis Technical Services was born. His early clients included four Vancouver stations. and two Victoria stations. Davis’ services took him beyond BC as far east as Ontario, and the scope of his work enlarged to include other projects such as the United Nations Habitat Conference, the U.B.C. Instructional Resources Centre and BC’s Knowledge Network.
In 1969, Stan formed a partnership with Ron East (then with CKPG), and the duo obtained licences for stations in Smithers (CFBV), Burns Lake (CFLD) and Prince George (CJCI), all the while developing automation techniques to improve efficiency. Later, they acquired Cariboo Broadcasters’ stations in Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House. FM counterparts followed.
When the C.A.B. Technical Advisory Committee was formed in the early 70s, Stan Davis was one of eight original members chosen from across Canada. He served on the committee for 14 years – the last four as chairman. He also served on the C.A.B.’s Board of Directors for four years.
Davis took semi-retirement in the 90s, but according to reports, continued work at his trade for ten months of the year.
In recognition of his services and contributions to the industry, in 1995, Stan Davis was inducted into the CAB Broadcast Hall of Fame.
Stan Davis died at age 77, in 2004.
Written by J. Lyman Potts – September, 1996