Beyond Digital | Field Trips
ABC 13 Studios – KTRK-TV
LongitudeSite field trip took a group of Rice students and alumni to the ABC 13 studios in Houston on April 10, 2026, for an immersive newsroom tour. The experience offered a firsthand look at how modern broadcast journalism operates in real time.
Ben Wolverton, a 25-year ABC 13 veteran and Programming Specialist, walked us through the full lifecycle of news production, from gathering and verifying information, to compiling stories, transmitting them for broadcast, and delivering them live on air.
We also explored the technical evolution of the industry, from earlier transmission methods to satellite broadcasting, and now to fiber and internet-based systems that enable faster and more reliable delivery of news. We discussed the evolution of cameras, the transition from VHS to digital systems, and the role of teleprompters in live broadcasting, highlighting how rapidly the media landscape continues to transform.
A highlight of the visit was watching veteran anchors Jeff Ehling and Elita Loresca in action. It was an inspiring reminder of the professionalism and precision required in live news delivery.
We were impressed by how meteorologist Elita Loresca spoke to the viewers without a script, telling each new development directly from her heart after studying the station’s weather models up to the minute.
Our guide, Ben Wolverton, praised the station’s non-sensational approach to weather reporting, especially during significant events like hurricanes. He credited the value of long-tenured staff who are deeply connected to the community and their understanding of what the viewers want to know.
Elita explained their hands-on approach at the station, where meteorologists create their own forecasts using various models and radar data. When we complimented her on knowing so well the sequence of the screens coming up, she demonstrated how she manages the remote control while staying focused on radar and future track. 
Every live delivery from the AccuWeather Center was made with superb internal organization timed to the last second with the countdown cues by Aaron behind the camera.
Our unique opportunity for observing behind the scenes activities at the ABC13 studios deepened our appreciation for cohesive teamwork that makes seamless operations possible.