WCRA prides itself in offering training to the public at large, in particular those interested in joining in the fun of Amateur Radio! WCRA has volunteer instructors that teach classes to prepare prospective Hams for the Technician class license exam, and also prides itself in the "know code" program, which is a course offered to current Hams and prospective Hams alike, teaching morse code and developing sufficient skills to pass the current 5 WPM requirement for the Tech w/ HF, General and Extra class licenses.

Classes Offered

Technician License Preparation Class

Currently, WCRA offers training designed to prepare a prospective Ham for the Technician class license exam. Also note that we require a minimum number of participants (the number varies) for the course to be conducted, so sign a friend or family member up when you sign up!

The course is based primarily on video courseware produced by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), with seasoned, Extra class Hams overseeing and facilitating the course. The instructors take time to answer questions and explain any concepts that may have been missed by the students to ensure that the students have gained the needed knowledge not only to pass the test, but also to apply the knowledge to good operating habits and practices. Individual attention is given where necessary.

Know Code Classes

WCRA also offers a the "KNOW CODE" class, aimed at teaching morse code to the absolute beginner, or to those that might have forgotten it. This course is held in the fall and in the spring, at the Wheaton, IL police department, and is free. The course normally runs for 8 weeks, and the success rate for persons going on to pass the Morse code examination and upgrade is very high! For more information on the when and where of the next know code class, please contact Charlie, WB9SGD.

After taking the class

Once you have taken the classes, you should promptly take your exam while everything is still fresh in your memory. Exams are also routinely administered by the WCRA VE team. Information on WCRA VE testing as well as other clubs can be found on the VE testing page.