KWWL.com - News & Weather for Waterloo, Dubuque, Cedar Rapids & Iowa City, Iowa | John Wilmer

John Wilmer
Reporter

For his entire life John Wilmer has called eastern Iowa home.  He grew up in Parkersburg and attended Aplington-Parkersburg High School. After graduation John went to the University of Northern Iowa where he graduated with a degree in Communication/Electronic Media. However, it wasn't until John took an internship in the KWWL Sports Department that he knew what he wanted his future career to be.

"Coleman made the whole experience just amazing.  He taught me how to shoot, write, and even edit.  He also took me to a couple college football games that he was covering. I thought if I could get paid to do this I think I just found my job," said John.

After graduating from college John took a position as a photographer at KWWL.

"I got to work with a lot of great people who taught me a lot about the news business.  Tami Wiencek showed me how to be not just good reporter, but a great journalist. Ron (Steele) showed me what kind of work ethic you need for the business.  He also has endless energy and I think a lot of us feed off of that," John said. 

About a year after becoming a photographer, a reporter position opened up at KWWL and John jumped at the chance to fill the spot.  John was hired as a full time reporter at KWWL in May of 2004 and that what he's been doing ever since.

"I really enjoy doing the stories that help people.  That's why I got into this business.  Everyday isn't all sunshine and lollypops, but when you get the chance to do that one story that makes a difference in someone's life it is all worth it," said John.

In his free time John Wilmer spends time with his wife and little girl.