Like so many others, my journey into amateur radio started with an Elmer. But an Elmer is more than just a teacher—they are a mentor, a guide, and a steady hand through the sometimes overwhelming process of getting licensed and learning the ropes of radio operation.
The Origin of the Term “Elmer”
Before we dive into my personal experience, let’s take a moment to appreciate where the term “Elmer” comes from. It was first coined by Rod Newkirk (W9BRD), a long-time contributor to QST magazine, where he wrote the How’s DX column from 1948 to 1978. The name first appeared in his March 1971 column, and it has since become a staple in the ham radio community. For more on the history of Elmers, you can check out this page.
How My Elmer Helped Me Get Started
For years, my Elmer and I had casual conversations about radio. It wasn’t until I finally decided to get serious that he really stepped in to help. He sent me links to helpful websites, recommended books, and made the testing process feel much more manageable. Any time I hit a roadblock—whether it was a tricky exam question or a complicated concept—he took the time to explain it in a way I could understand.
Choosing My First Radio
Even after passing my Technician exam, I found myself struggling with one big decision—what radio to get. I had some experience with CB radios from childhood and from my career as a commercial driver, but amateur radio felt like a whole different world. Once again, I turned to my Elmer for guidance. Together, we assessed the local radio activity and considered what I wanted out of my first setup. Eventually, I settled on a handheld tribander from Baofeng with an upgraded antenna—an affordable and effective starting point for my ham radio adventure.
Taking the First Steps on the Air
The excitement really hit when I received my call sign. My first official act as a licensed amateur radio operator was checking in on the local repeater—a moment both thrilling and nerve-wracking. That first contact opened the door to many more conversations, and before long, I was actively logging contacts on QRZ.com and getting more involved with the amateur radio community. It didn’t take long before I decided to take the next step and join the local radio club.
The Power of Mentorship in Amateur Radio
Looking back, I can’t overstate the impact of having an Elmer to guide me. Amateur radio can initially seem overwhelming, but with the right mentor, the journey becomes easier and much more rewarding. Whether you’re just getting started or have been on the air for years, consider finding—or becoming—an Elmer. Finding your own Elmer is as easy as visiting a local club. You can visit arrl.org to find clubs in your area. The connections you make and the knowledge you gain are what keep this amazing hobby alive and thriving.
KF8CRS 
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