Fellow Amateur Radio Operators,
As members of this vibrant and dedicated community, we share a passion for radio communications, public service, and the technical arts. The American Radio Relay League has long played a vital role in advancing and protecting our hobby, ensuring that amateur radio continues to thrive both nationally and here in Utah.
Whether you are a seasoned operator or newly licensed, the ARRL’s work has likely impacted you in significant ways – advocating for our spectrum rights, supporting emergency communications, promoting education, and fostering public service initiatives. Yet, for amateur radio to remain relevant and strong in the years to come, we must continue to build upon our successes and address areas where improvement is needed.
A stronger, more responsive ARRL – one that prioritizes grassroots input and local engagement – will better serve its members and the broader amateur radio community. This is our collective responsibility, and I invite each of you to take an active role in shaping the future of our shared passion.
Utah’s diverse landscape and history of natural disasters highlight the need for reliable emergency communications. ARES in Utah was once struggling, but through the efforts of many dedicated ARES members, we have modernized its approach to meet the real-world needs of our served agencies. By integrating contemporary communication methods and rebuilding relationships with emergency response organizations, we are regaining trust and proving amateur radio’s indispensable role in disaster response.
However, there is still more work to be done. Many local ARES teams face challenges such as inconsistent support, limited resources, and training gaps. We must strengthen ARES in Utah by providing standardized training, enhanced resources, and better coordination between leadership and field units. A well-structured and well-supported ARES program will ensure that amateur radio remains a cornerstone of emergency response.
The ARRL plays a crucial role in protecting our access to the radio spectrum and advocating for favorable regulations. However, advocacy must be transparent and member-driven. Too often, policy decisions feel disconnected from the operators they impact.
A stronger, grassroots-driven ARRL is essential. We will work to improve communication between the Section Cabinet and operators across the state, actively seek input from local clubs, and ensure that advocacy efforts reflect the priorities of our amateur radio community. By fostering a more inclusive decision-making process, the League can become a more effective representative of its membership.
Local clubs are the heart of amateur radio, providing education, mentorship, and a sense of community for operators of all skill levels. The ARRL has long supported clubs through training materials, events like Field Day, and licensing resources.
However, club participation fluctuates, and we must take a more proactive role in revitalizing local organizations. Increased support for club-led initiatives, expanded mentorship programs, and engaging educational activities will help sustain and grow participation. Ensuring new operators have access to practical, hands-on learning experiences is critical to long-term retention and the future of our hobby.
Amateur radio’s legacy of public service remains strong in Utah, with operators assisting in everything from disaster response to community events. Programs such as the new National Traffic System (NTS 2.0) provide valuable guidance in these efforts.
Yet, as technology evolves, so must amateur radio. Digital modes, emergency communications software, and modern interoperability tools must be integrated into our training and operations. The ARRL should lead efforts to ensure amateur radio remains a vital complement to contemporary emergency communication strategies.
For amateur radio to thrive, the ARRL must move beyond a top-down model and fully embrace a bottom-up approach where members drive its direction. Stronger local representation, increased transparency, and more direct involvement from operators at all levels will strengthen the League’s ability to serve its members effectively.
By supporting the ARRL while advocating for these improvements, we will ensure that amateur radio in Utah remains dynamic, resilient, and forward-looking. If you are already a member, your support is making a difference. If you are not yet involved, now is the time to engage. Together, we can shape the future of amateur radio and ensure its continued growth and success.
Your voice matters in the ARRL Utah Section. Your efforts are making a difference. I look forward to building upon the foundation we have and making the ARRL Utah Section something that is valued by every member in the section and the envy of every other section in the League.
Please reach out if there is ever anything I can help you with.
~ Servire Per Æthera ~
73,
Brett
ARRL Utah Section Manager
k7bdp@arrl.org
