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ENCO Founder Gene Novacek Passes

Gene Novacek

The MAB has learned that Eugene Novacek, who founded Southfield-based broadcast technology company ENCO has died from pancreatic cancer at age 61.  He passed away in New York City on January 1.

Novacek was a professional engineer (P.E.) who held engineering degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He had early jobs at Bechtel Power Corp., Barton Malow Co. and Alberici Constructors before founding ENCO Systems Inc., whose acronym includes his initials.

The company began St. Louis in 1983, providing computer-based process control for critical industrial applications. The firm saw its biggest growth with broadcast, becoming a prominent supplier of automation for radio and TV stations. Its first digital audio delivery system was introduced in 1991; its product lines have since grown to encompass playout automation, captioning, scheduling and streaming. Its markets also include A/V, events, concerts, worship and retail environments.

Novacek wrote the chapter on automation and audio storage in the latest edition of the NAB Engineering Handbook. He also held a private pilot’s license.

ENCO is currently led by Ken Frommert, who in 2017 was promoted from General Manager to President.

Novacek is survived by his wife Judith Novacek, daughter Kristin Heinbockel, son Andrew Novacek and granddaughter Evany Novacek.

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