View Full Version : Young ham radio operator hears ‘call’
"It's not a hobby, it's my life", he says.
Very cool.
Great story, Tom!
You really illustrate the way to attract new "young generation" Hams. #We need to provide challenges to them. #They want to be part of the "important" world things.
It really isn't about the Morse Code test for HF access, it is about providing interesting things for new Hams of ANY AGE to do with their license at any class. #It is about getting them on the air, and keeping them involved in something that uses their gear and their talents.
In my little town I was suprised to see almost 200 people with licenses. #Where are they? #There are actually about 5-8 people on the air regularly. Why aren't those folks active. #So I called some of them. #Here are the 3 top reasons in order of popularity:
1. Got a radio and didn't find anyone to talk to. (over 70%)
2. Got a license with my (friend, co-worker, spouse) and never found a use for it.
3. Nothing to do with the radio other than chat.
NOBODY said ANYTHING about morse code testing! I made 100 calls. #Hardly scientific, but useful? # I believe your story spotlights this issue very well. #Thanks for sharing!
KB1JVI
10-13-2003, 09:26 PM
I'm 19.. and it was a booth that interested me. I got my ticket in April and got hooked onto the hobby at Field Day.
KI4BOO
10-14-2003, 01:01 AM
Freeband and CB introduced me to Amateur Radio when I was 12. I got out of it completely for a few years. I got an itch a few months ago.
Im 17 now, and I got my ticket in July.
kb9wgx
10-14-2003, 03:34 AM
We need more people like this!
I am 17, and President of our counties only amateur radio club. It keeps me busy!
Josh
N7VQM
10-14-2003, 04:46 AM
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (kb9wgx @ Oct. 13 2003,20:34)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I am 17, and President of our counties only amateur radio club. #It keeps me busy![/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Yikes! When I was that young, I felt (and still do) it a bad idea for someone that age to have such a position.
Some people think it's 'neat' but, why not give yourself time to just be a kid?
kb9wgx
10-14-2003, 05:19 AM
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (N7VQM @ Oct. 13 2003,15:46)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Yikes! When I was that young, I felt (and still do) it a bad idea for someone that age to have such a position.
Some people think it's 'neat' but, why not give yourself time to just be a kid?[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
I started the club! I was the only one willing to run for prez. Oh well, the responsability keeps me out of trouble. Anyway, it's more fun than it is work.
I'm very mature for my age. I don't know why, but all the local hams just sort of look to me to lead the way. I guess it's because I was the first to step up to the plate and say "We need to do something, give something back to the community."
Josh
Well, great work guys! Glad you're in the hobby and taking an active part.
wgx,
Your post goes with my earlier message. Although the way to keep amateurs interested is through involvement in activities, very few folks are willing to step up to the plate and act. I have been a Vol. Firefighter for 25 years and even with something as important as protecting your own community, it is hard to find helpers. Keep up the good work!
KF4ZHL
10-14-2003, 10:03 PM
Part of the problem with all hobbies/extracurricular activities is the lifestyle of this day and age. Both parents have a ten hour workday and maybe some weekend time to boot. You need to set aside time for career advancement (classes, certifications, etc.) The kids have a pile of homework they need help with because it seems many schools don't have the time to teach the new high standards properly in class. You need to set aside time for physical fitness. The kids have to be in sports. Add in the regular chores, meal preparation and family time. You have to socialize one night a week with freinds or you'll look like a shut-in. If you're like me, you find precious little time for hobbies like Ham radio, computer games, remote control, etc. I'm seriously starting to consider getting up in the wee hours of the morning for exercise because it interferes so much in the evenings and I wind up skipping! It's not anyones fault. It's just that the average Joe's life these days is pretty busy.
kb9wgx
10-14-2003, 10:13 PM
Only one of my parents works, I'm home-schooled, I cook most of the meals, I spend lots of time with family, and I have friends. I am also active in 4H, and I walk about 5 miles per week. I am also taking ADVANCED courses for school. I plan on becoming an electronics tech. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif So I think I have all the bases covered.
Each person has to find what works for them.
N7VQM
10-15-2003, 12:56 AM
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (kb9wgx @ Oct. 14 2003,15:13)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I am also taking ADVANCED courses for school. I plan on becoming an electronics tech.[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
IMHO, you should aim higher than tech. Go for engineer since you're already in advanced classes. Yep, it's a tougher ciricullum and it takes twice as long at most schools but, the rewards are much greater.
I'm a BS Electronics Engineering Technology student right now. A EET is between a tech and an engineer. I graduate next Thurday and I am so kicking myself. I should have just tackled a BSEE course.