2010 40 Under Forty: Andy Lacombe

News Supervisor, Charter TV3

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Worcester

Age: 33

Career highlights: When I was a graduate student at Syracuse University, I started as a freelance radio news reporter covering stories ranging from the 2000 presidential election to Syracuse football games. I started at Newswatch Three (WGMC) in Worcester in December of 2000 as an assignment editor/health reporter. Since then I have held nearly every job at the station (now Charter TV3). Additionally, I have worked as a freelance news reporter and sports anchor at New England Cable News (NECN) in Newton.

Community involvement: My job allows me the opportunity to be involved in a lot of communities around Central Massachusetts. I have had the chance to speak to young athletes at numerous high school sports banquets as well as academic award nights at high schools. I have participated in community reading days and career days at local schools. I also have volunteered as a Pop Warner football coach.

Biggest success: I am really proud of three sports documentaries at Charter TV3 that I worked on with Kevin Shea and Ryan Hughes. We won a few awards for them, but more importantly, we were able to tell a story with total access to our subjects.

Biggest challenge: My biggest challenge has been the transition from the duties of a general assignment reporter to a role in news management. The management side brings with it a lot more responsibilities, and at least in my experience, it is never a 40-hour-per-week position.

Mentors: My real mentor is my Dad. He’s taught me a lot about how to communicate, how to treat people fairly and how to use good judgment in my personal and professional life.

Hidden Talents: I am a pretty good cook! I enjoy just throwing recipes together in the kitchen. I love cooking for family and friends.