This title is given to individuals who have achieved significant recognition in media and entertainment for their engineering or executive roles. Zimmerman is one of 10 newly named Fellows to be inducted during the SMPTE Media Technology Summit’s Fellows Luncheon and Induction Ceremony, as well as the annual Awards Gala in 2024.

Career Background and Achievements

Zimmerman began his career as a broadcast engineer at WICD-TV, where he handled various technical operations while studying at the University of Illinois. He earned both his BSEE and MSEE degrees during this time. A SMPTE member since 1988, Zimmerman contributed to the industry-wide shift from analog to digital technology. He later designed broadcast products for Odetics and worked as a consultant for several major networks, including Fox News and Fox Sports. He was involved in projects for the 1996, 2000, and 2002 Olympic Games, earning two Emmy Awards for his contributions.

Founding of Cobalt Digital

In 1997, Zimmerman founded Cobalt Digital, a company that designs and manufactures signal processing products for live video production and master control. Under his leadership, the company has played a significant role in the industry, co-founding initiatives such as openGear®, a platform that allows processing cards from multiple manufacturers to be used in a single frame, and the Reliable Internet Stream Transport (RIST) forum, which promotes the adoption of open protocols for Internet contributions. Cobalt Digital’s technology has earned 53 industry awards and an Emmy.

Zimmerman’s Perspective on SMPTE

Zimmerman credits SMPTE for shaping his career and guiding his vision for both Cobalt Digital and the future of broadcasting. He views SMPTE as a key organization that fosters collaboration and the development of industry standards, which drive the advancement of new technologies. He expressed his appreciation for being named a Fellow and recognized alongside other leaders in the field.