The West Virginia State Amateur Radio Council is a statewide organization dedicated to supporting, promoting, and coordinating amateur radio activity across the Mountain State. As the central hub for clubs, emergency communications groups, and individual operators, the Council works to strengthen the amateur radio community through collaboration, advocacy, and shared resources. Our mission is to help ensure that amateur radio continues to thrive as both a technical hobby and a vital public service.
Who are we? We are a diverse group of licensed amateur radio operators—newcomers and veterans alike—united by a passion for radio technology, communication, and service. Council members come from all corners of West Virginia, bringing experiences ranging from emergency communications and public service to contesting, experimentation, education, and everyday enjoyment of the airwaves. Together, we foster a statewide network of operators who support one another and contribute to the advancement of amateur radio.
Amateur radio plays a crucial role in society by providing reliable communication when traditional systems fail. Whether during severe weather, natural disasters, or community events, trained amateur radio operators consistently demonstrate the value of radio technology as a resilient and adaptable form of communication. Beyond emergency support, amateur radio cultivates technical curiosity, promotes STEM learning, and preserves a long-standing culture of experimentation that continues to drive innovation.
A key focus of the Council is welcoming newly licensed operators into the hobby. We understand how exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—it can be to earn your callsign, and we are committed to helping new hams find their place on the air. Through mentoring programs, club outreach, and educational opportunities, we encourage beginners to explore different aspects of radio, from HF operation and digital modes to contesting, satellites, and portable operating. We believe that strong mentorship is essential for maintaining an active and enthusiastic amateur radio community.
As the hobby continues to grow and evolve, the West Virginia State Amateur Radio Council remains dedicated to fostering that growth through education, public engagement, and statewide collaboration. We support contesting as a fun and competitive way for operators to sharpen their skills, and we promote ongoing learning so that both new and experienced hams can stay current with emerging technologies. Above all, we strive to build a welcoming, knowledgeable, and resilient community that will carry the spirit of amateur radio well into the future.