Locals Participate in HAM Radio Class

Ham (Amateur) Radio is used throughout the world as a means of communication without having to rely on cell service. In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, there are people who have been specifically trained to communicate via the radio. However, this skill is not only for emergency situations, as it is considered a favored hobby by many. The Jerry L. Memorial VA Medical Center is hosting a 10-week-long course in which students will be taught the ins and outs of ham radio, from practice test questions from the licensing exam to various safety precautions. The first class was held Thursday, June 20, led by ham radio instructor Jason Knight. Knight opened the class with a brief roundtable introduction, leaving his 10 students to introduce themselves and explain their reasons for taking the class. Many of the people there felt they needed a refresher course, while others needed it for their out-of-office jobs. Several of the men were veterans who explained that while they had prior experience working with radio, this time they were doing it for their enjoyment rather than a job. Local Psychiatrist Julie Wareham explained that she is in the process of getting her ham shack set up, but needed a little extra support. “I wanted the capability to communicate with family without relying on cell phones. It’s a nice way to spend a weekend talking to people all over the world,” Wareham said. Ham Radio Instructor Knight said, “I like teaching, and there weren’t any classes really in this area, so there was a need.” This will be Knight’s third time teaching a ham radio class. Sponsored by the Jerry L. Pettis VA Amateur Radio Club, this three-hour-long class, which runs from 6 to 9 p.m., is one of few located in a VA facility. The cost of the class is $40 and includes all materials as well as the ARRL Technician License book. For the next nine weeks, Knight will be touching on signal fundamentals, licensing and operating regulations as well as electricity, circuits and propagation. “Ham radio is only amateur because you don’t get paid,” said Knight.