For a long time, Brother Nomar (NP4H) held technician classes at the Lodge. He always hoped I would join them someday, but I’ll be honest: I wasn’t sure my memory was up to the task. We all get a little older, and learning new things doesn’t always come as easily as it used to. I just wasn’t sure I could pull it off.
Then, this past August, Nomar mentioned another upcoming class. Something clicked, and I finally said yes.
The Technician Jumpstart
The class was a two-day “cram” session with the exam on the second afternoon. To prepare, I downloaded a study app and spent time watching YouTube videos to wrap my head around the concepts. When test time came on that second day, I passed! I was in total disbelief—not only that I did it, but that I actually remembered everything I had studied.
That same day, Nomar had invited another Brother—a state-authorized Yaesu dealer—to bring some equipment for sale. I walked out of there with a Yaesu FT-70DR. In my opinion, it’s the best little radio anyone can buy, and I strongly recommend it as a first radio (just make sure you buy through an authorized dealer!). That was the moment the passion really took hold.
Leveling Up: The General License
With the Technician license under my belt, I immediately set a new goal: General. I made a deal with myself—if and when I passed, I’d treat myself to the Yaesu FTDX10 (or the FTM-710).
Shortly after passing the Tech exam, I received my official FCC email with my first call sign: KE2GPQ. I got on the air immediately, finding a deep interest in emergency communications. I started listening to the nets, specifically the W2NJR repeater system. There are so many great people on there, and it made the hobby even more fun.
I kept up the routine—apps and YouTube—and soon enough, I passed the General exam. I snagged a great deal on my Yaesu FT-710, and suddenly, I was riding the HF waves. Making those first QSOs was an incredible rush.
Giving Back: The Extra and Beyond
So, what was next? I wanted to give back to the community and serve the hobby, so I decided to go all the way for my Amateur Extra license. I attained that in November, completing the trifecta in just a few months.
Once I was an Extra, I applied for a vanity call sign to make it my own. I traded in KE2GPQ for NJ2RQ.
That is my short history of the three licenses, bringing you up to date with my radio endeavors so far. It’s been a whirlwind, and I’m just getting started.
73,
NJ2RQ
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