Keith Gouveia (KC1OZK)

How long have you been a Ham?

I became a ham radio operator in March 2021. I experimented with it for a while, but life got in the way, and I took a break. After purchasing an HF radio, I obtained my general license in February 2024.

What mode(s) within Amateur Radio do you enjoy operating?

I recently started participating in both SOTA (Summits on the Air) and POTA (Parks on the Air). I’m really excited about SOTA because I have always enjoyed hiking and backcountry camping. I’ve been working on building my portable station kit and I’m looking forward to activating many summits this year. My goal is to be the first activator on a summit, which will be a challenge since the unactivated summits are usually very difficult to access. I am also interested in electronics and homebrewing antennas.

Describe your involvement with GSARA.

I first discovered GSARA while I was studying for my technician license. Like many others, I purchased a Baofeng radio and began listening to the nightly nets. It quickly became a routine in our household, with my wife and stepdaughter often joining me for entertainment. Once I obtained my license, I reached out to the repeater and made my first contact with a few local GSARA members. This year, I attended a POTA meetup and participated in a group SOTA/POTA hike.

What is one piece of advice you would give a new Ham?

Don’t be afraid to throw your call sign out on the radio waves. I’ve found that most amateur radio operators are extremely friendly and willing to help a new ham.