Title: Producer and Writer
Location: Falls Church, Virginia, United States
James L. Schaefer, producer and writer, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Artists for dedication, achievements and leadership in documentary production.
A distinguished producer and writer, Mr. Schaefer has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence throughout a career spanning more than five decades in broadcasting, documentary production and journalism. For more than a decade, he has excelled as a freelance producer and writer in Washington, D.C., where he has continued to refine his expertise in field production, interviewing, writing, editing and documentary storytelling. Mr. Schaefer’s work in this capacity reflects a culmination of skills honed over a lifetime dedicated to clear communication and impactful media.
Before his freelance endeavors, Mr. Schaefer served as a producer and writer for the Pentagon Channel in Alexandria, Virginia, from 2004 to 2012. In this role, he was responsible for developing and producing content that informed and engaged military audiences. His tenure at the Pentagon Channel further solidified his reputation for delivering high-quality programming with accuracy and integrity.
Between 1993 and 2003, Mr. Schaefer held several key positions at WJLA-TV (now ABC 7) in Washington, D.C. As an executive producer, operations manager and senior writer-producer, he oversaw news operations and managed teams responsible for producing daily broadcasts. Mr. Schaefer’s leadership significantly contributed to the station’s editorial direction and operational efficiency.
Prior to joining WJLA-TV, Mr. Schaefer was the bureau chief at Gillett News Bureau in Washington, D.C. In this capacity, he directed news coverage from the nation’s capital, coordinating reporting efforts on major national events and ensuring comprehensive coverage for affiliate stations.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Schaefer worked as a producer in Cleveland and Washington, D.C. During this period, he produced a local monthly program in Cleveland that highlighted community subjects. Additionally, his work as a contractor for the U.S. Department of Defense involved producing half-hour documentaries that showcased critical topics relevant to national security and public awareness. These projects stand among his proudest professional accomplishments.
Mr. Schaefer began his professional career as a producer and film editor at WKYC-TV (now WKYC Studios) in the greater Cleveland area in 1974. There, he developed foundational skills in editing and production that would serve as the bedrock for his future successes across multiple media platforms.
In addition to his civilian career, Mr. Schaefer served in the U.S. Army. This experience contributed to his disciplined approach to work and deepened his understanding of collaborative environments, qualities that have been evident throughout his professional life.
Mr. Schaefer’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame in 1968 and a Master of Arts in cinema studies from New York University in 1970. He is a member of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, reflecting his ongoing engagement with industry standards and professional development.
A recognized expert in field production, interviewing, writing, editing, broadcasting and documentary production, Mr. Schaefer is lauded for achieving mastery across these disciplines. He attributes much of his success to extensive on-the-job training in journalism, where he learned the importance of conveying information accurately and free from personal bias.
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