In this episode, Guy Atchley welcomes Tom Lang, Former President and member of the Green Valley Amateur Radio Club (GVARC), for an engaging conversation about the world of amateur (ham) radio.
Broadcasting from the scenic La Posada campus, Tom previews the club’s upcoming Field Day event, taking place June 28–29, 2025, at the Santa Rita Fire Department in Green Valley. This nationwide ARRL event is held twice a year and highlights how ham operators prepare for emergencies, making contacts through voice (SSB), Morse code (CW), and digital modes—all within a 24-hour window of non-stop communication.
Listeners will also learn about the GOTA ("Get On The Air") station, a welcoming opportunity for newcomers and technicians to get hands-on experience with radio operation during the event. Tom shares how the club would mobilize in an emergency and reflects on real-world examples—such as the fires in Southern California—where amateur radio has played a crucial role.
From types of radios and antennas to signal propagation and the camaraderie of the ham radio community, this episode offers an inside look at how “hams” connect people—and help when it matters most.
🎧 Learn more or become a member: GVARC.us