If you were logging onto Facebook to watch DX Engineering’s informative and entertaining live shows last year, you likely noticed that we were privileged to feature several younger operators who are accomplishing big things in ham radio. It is always encouraging to see youth embracing the technical aspects of amateur radio with such gusto and aplomb. In the Weekend Special show below, Tim Duffy, K3LR, DX Engineering CEO, welcomed Marty Sullaway, NN1C. You might remember Marty as a member of Team Exuberance, a collection of young hams who excelled at the CQ WW WPX, SSB Contest in 2019 and the CQ WW WPX, CW contest in 2020. Among his many activities, Marty also was one of the presenters at Contest University 2022. Take a moment to learn how he got involved in ham radio and what fuels his interest. We guarantee you’ll be inspired.
For many operators who caught the fee-vuh for ham radio early on (cue sound of cowbell), it took the wise guidance of a father, mother, uncle, or family friend to ignite the spark that would grow into a full-blown passion for the hobby. That’s what makes ARRL Kids Day (January 7 and June 17, 1800Z to 2359Z) so important on the 2023 ham radio calendar. From the ARRL, the event is “designed to give on-the-air experience to young people and hopefully foster interest in getting a license of their own. It is also intended to give older hams a chance to share their station and love for Amateur Radio with their children.”
The ARRL notes that the suggested Kids Day exchange “is name, age, location, and favorite color. Be sure to work the same station again if an operator has changed. To draw attention, call CQ Kids Day.” Learn more about ARRL Kids Day here.
And if you’re looking to make a significant impact in the future of amateur radio in your community and beyond, read this article about a 4-H club in Ohio that has an excellent model for getting young people involved.
