Some years (decades) ago, a few of my work associates were talking about ham radio. I recall them discussing "the code" and other aspects of the hobby. At that time of my life, although I had an interest in radio, there were just too many other things on my plate. Not long ago, I had a neighbor who was into ham radio, but we rarely discussed his radio activities.

So, what I consider my first real introduction came in the latter part of 2005. There was a need in my area for ham operator in my neighborhood to provide help with emergency communications. Since we were not aware of any operators in the immediate area, I volunteered to get a licence and a radio.

I had little idea of what would be involved to obtain a license. But after a few online searches, I discovered my local library had the book, Now Your Talking!, so I checked it out and began reading. Thankfully, I had some experience in scientific and technical subjects and a basic understanding of electronics. So, in less than a week, I was able to take and pass the Technician test on October 15, 2005. My first call, KE7FDT, was issued a few days later. Not long after that, my first handheld was purchased.

It was fun to discover the local repeaters and how to program my radio. Initially, I made contacts, but the rubber duck antenna didn't work very well indoors or inside vehicles. So, my interest in antennas was born. I purchased a mag mount for mobile use and began looking into other designs to enhance my signal. Please see the "Projects" page for more on my antenna work.

During these early months I joined the Utah Amateur Radio Club (UARC) and attended several meetings as my schedule would allow. Even though I had little interest in HF at the time, I had a desire to complete the requirements to obtain my General and Amateur Extra class licenses. After some study of the General materials, I decided it would be best to work on Element 1, the Morse code requirement. The code proved to be far more difficult for me that I could have imagined. Still, I didn't want to simply pass the 5 WPM test. If I was going to have to invest countless hours learning CW, I wanted a skill that I would be able to use on the air. I found information on the Koch method and decided to pursue that course of study. So, for the next six plus months, I practiced and practiced. It just wasn't that easy for me.

Finally, on October 7, 2006, I took the exams for Elements 1 and 3. I passed the General exam, even though I forgot to answer one of the questions. Then, it was on to the CW test. It was a nervous time for me although I had worked very hard to prepare. I felt very fortunate to have done well enough to pass.

After I received my General ticket, I erected my first HF antenna. It was a simple dipole which I made myself from wire given away at a UARC club meeting. Then, using a rig loaned to me by a fellow ham, I was able to make my first contacts on HF. Needless to say, I was hooked on HF.

With the CW exam behind me, I was determined to complete the next level of licensing by pursuing my Extra ticket. I just didn't want to loose any momentum while the General concepts were still fairly fresh in my mind. In my previous studies, I had used a combination of reading and online practice exams. However, not many days passed and I found a great study tool in HamTestOnline. To me, it was an effective combination of book study and practice exams. Along the way I memorized and learned the math formulas and studied the supplemental material presented in the HTO lessons. So, a few weeks after becoming a General, on a dark and spooky Halloween night, I passed the Extra exam on October 31, 2006. After some administrative delays, I was issued my current call, AD7KG, on November 14, 2006.

I enjoy learning about nearly every aspect of ham radio. Currently, I like talking with other hams on local repeaters. While the topics vary, many times we discuss the technical issues of radio. This has been a great resource. I really like to chase DX contacts and work contests. Please see the "Operating" page for more details.

There have been many, many in the ham community who have welcomed me, given me instruction, encouragement, direction and provided hours of conversation, on and off the air. It would be nearly impossible to make specific mention of everyone. However, I would be remiss if I didn't thank several by name. First, my thanks to Lawrence Lincoln, NR7Y, (formerly K7UHU), for my introduction and first radio contact. Later, at a UARC meeting I met a wonderful friend in John Hays, K7VE. Not long after I passed Elements 1 and 3, he loaned me his spare rig and my voyage into the world of HF began. He drove me to my first ARRL Field Day in 2006. We also were able to enjoy a wonderful time at Hamvention 2007 in Dayton, Ohio. And finally, there are many members of the Utah DX Association who have had a profound influence on me and other hams. Specifically, I would like to mention Wes Voss, KE7FBY, Curt Wilbur, K7CU, Mark Richardson, W7HPW, Jon Utley, K7CO, Dennis Utley, AF7Y, and Darryl Hazelgren, K7UT. In the early days, Wes and I talked almost every day during our weekday commutes to and from work. This activity has continued and we have shared many great times. Curt has been very helpful in many ways. He worked with me (and others) as I made my first nervous CW contacts. He has willingly shared his years of experience, especially on CW. Mark has allowed me, and others, to come to his home for personal instruction. He is always willing to take the time to teach and answer my email questions. Jon and Dennis invited us to come to the AF7Y ham station to make our first HF contacts. Jon provided needed encouragement in my early days of CW practice. Darryl has tutored many of us in DX and contesting techniques and has truly been an example of the finest this hobby has to offer.

Some may consider ham radio to be just another hobby. Perhaps on the surface, it is. In the few short years I have been involved in radio, I have had some wonderful experiences. It has also been my opportunity to meet many who are and will become lifelong friends. So, in the tradition that is ham radio, the best way I can say thank you is to do all I can to pass along what I've learned and extend a welcome to all.