Sam Matheny is executive vice president, Broadcast Positioning System at the National Association of Broadcasters, where he is leading the development and advancement of NAB’s Broadcast Positioning System (BPS)—a next-generation terrestrial solution designed to provide resilient timing and location services as a complement and backup to GPS. In 2026, NAB announced a strategic transition moving Matheny from his longtime role as executive vice president and chief technology officer into this position, underscoring both the significance of BPS and his central role in bringing the initiative to market. In this capacity, he is focused on industry collaboration, innovation and deployment strategies that position broadcasting as critical infrastructure for national resilience and security. Matheny is also a coinventor on the first granted BPS patent.

A widely respected media technology executive, Matheny brings more than 25 years of experience across broadcasting, digital networking and emerging platforms. He holds a patent for mobile and interactive digital television technologies and has played a key role in advancing next-generation broadcast capabilities. His leadership spans numerous industry and public service efforts, including roles with the Ultra HD Forum, the National Wireless Safety Alliance, FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System advisory council and the FCC’s Communications Security, Reliability and Interoperability Council. He is also a member of the Academy of Digital Television Pioneers and has advised startups and technology companies across OTT, digital media and advanced advertising.

Prior to his current role, Matheny served as NAB’s executive vice president and chief technology officer, where he led the organization’s technology strategy, innovation initiatives and industry partnerships, including oversight of PILOT. Before joining NAB in 2014, he held senior leadership positions at Capitol Broadcasting Company, focusing on emerging media, mobile delivery and next-generation television services. He holds a bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University, a master’s degree from North Carolina State University and has completed advanced study in artificial intelligence and business strategy at MIT. He has also served as a visiting fellow with the German Marshall Fund, where he co-chaired the Future of Democracy Working Group, reflecting his continued engagement at the intersection of technology, policy and the future of media.