Mike Sousa (KB1QVO)

How long have you been a Ham?

Since 2008 (Tech, General), 2009 (Extra)

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

I work VHF/UHF FM, mainly with an HT

Describe your involvement with GSARA.

As often as I can, I attend meetings on Saturday and Wednesday mornings (although the Wednesdays are more intermittent), and I try to visit the Summer and Winter Field days, although I don't participate in them. I have also participated in Fox Hunts.

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

I would advise them to attend a local club's meeting(s) and get to know some of the folks who talk on the air. Let them know that developing good friendships with the hobby is fairly straightforward. They don't need the most expensive gear available and should try every mode that sounds interesting. I have convinced a couple of individuals to get their Licenses by letting them know that the first (Technician) can actually expose them to a lot of radio fun.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

My goal with radio is to fix someday/refurbish/restore, and use an old tube radio. I enjoy using and exploring the workings of GNU Radio and its use on Raspberry PIs. I'm a Software engineer by trade and have worked on a few SDR projects, so someday, I will push that experience into the GNU Radio/PI realm and make something nifty.