Callaway Amateur Radio League offers class for certification

 

If you've ever wanted to chat with fascinating people all over the world, then David Mueller's amateur radio class starting 9:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, is for you.

During the three-week course, Mueller and other instructors from Callaway Amateur Radio League LLC will help students earn their Technician Class License.

"It's an extensive test to get a license," Mueller said. "Some do fine just reading a book, then taking the test, but others really benefit from someone helping them. Everyone learns a little different, and we want to provide instructors to help people get through the material."

Mueller first became aware of amateur radio as a freshmen in high school, but it wasn't until his son became interested 14 years ago the started to pursue his license.

"My son's interest is really what bumped mine," Mueller said. "He didn't end up pursuing it, but I did."

His radio has connected him with people from many countries and continents.

"A couple years ago, the radio club set up in the Walmart parking lot," he said. "We transmitted a low-power digital signal, and spoke to someone from Sicily, then another person from Australia."

Every five years during the Churchill anniversary, the radio league  broadcasts from the Churchill museum to talk to people far and wide about the famous prime minister's life and legacy.

"Last time, we ended up talking to people across the United States," Mueller said. "We also talked to people in Canada, and as far away as Europe. One gentleman from Hamilton, Ontario, worked at a museum of Canadian military airplanes and was very excited to talk with us."

For as long as he has been involved in amateur radio, Mueller still is surprised by the people he meets over the air waves.

"You never know who you are going to meet," Mueller said. "What kind of jobs or backgrounds they might have. People often see the word 'amateur' and think they don't know a lot, but these people are often experts in their fields."

The class will cover material appearing on the Technician Class License test, as well as general rules and regulations of operating a radio, basics of electronics and electricity, various modes of use on radios, different radio units, how radio wave and signals function, communicating with others over radio, common practice and call-signs.

"Most importantly, we will also be covering safety," Mueller said. "Its a very important consideration."

Participants in the class are advised to bring the study book for the Technician Class License, which is available through the American Radio Relay League's website. Mueller said the book is not required, but it is useful.

Those interested in attending the class should call Mueller at 573-826-0005.