In the world of work, networking is the lifeblood of success, outdoorsman and former television host Tom Ackerman said.

That's how he got his big break that led him to hosting duties on ESPN's “The New American Sportsman,” Ackerman told the Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce. He spoke at the chamber's annual dinner on March 6.

Ackerman was working in fly fishing schools at L.L.Bean when a man came to film one of the schools. The two kept in touch. “And he just called me one time and said, 'Hey, buddy. How'd you like to book locations'” for ESPN's block of outdoors shows, Ackerman said.

He took the job and, with his wife's encouragement, later sought and got the hosting slot when then-host Deion Sanders left to resume his football career.

Ackerman also cited the importance of making a big effort. While he was still booking locations, ESPN wasn't interested in his input on hunting and fishing.

“So I just doubled down, and I said I'm going to be the best agent they've ever had, and I worked really hard ... just making sure they had the absolute best lodges, the best hunting and fishing, the best areas, and that got me a place at the table, really.”

He encouraged audience members to work hard, also. “Eventually ... something good is going to happen,” he said.

The new Waters Edge Banquet & Function Facility in Edgecomb donated its space for last week's dinner. Peregrine Turbine Technologies and Tim Dunham Realty sponsored the event.

Chamber awards went to Todd Souza, volunteer of the year; Red's Eats, business of the year; Lincoln County Animal Shelter, nonprofit of the year; Sheepscot Bay Physical Therapy, for growth and development; and Ethel Stansfield, who received the Barnes/Smith Lifetime Achievement Award.

Chambers around the state are energized right now, Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, told attendees in a video greeting. He praised the Wiscasset area chamber for organizing in 2011.