Public Service
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) consist of licensed amateur radio operators who volunteer for communications duty when disaster strikes. ARES works in public service and is managed by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). RACES works in public safety and is managed by the Ulster County Department of Emergency Management.
Education
To become an amateur radio operator, you must first earn a Technician Class license by passing a multiple choice question exam. OMARC offers classroom courses to help you prepare for the exam. Through lectures, demonstrations, and discussions, our courses will help you develop knowledge and skills that will get you through the exam and into the excitement of amateur radio. You can upgrade your license privileges by passing additional exams for the General Class and Extra Class licenses. Licensing and upgrade classes are scheduled in advance. See our Calendar for a current schedule.
OMARC members can also offer coaching and practical help as you choose your new equipment, set up your station, and explore the many new technologies and practices that await you as an amateur radio operator.
Licensing and Upgrade Examinations:
OMARC Licensing and upgrade exam sessions are offered throughout the year. Pre-registration is not necessary. Please bring a photo ID, some pencils, an optional calculator and the $15 examination fee. If you’re upgrading bring a copy of your current radio license.
Note: Because of the Covid health emergency, we have temporarily suspended education programming. Check our calendar for upcoming license exams, including any pre-registration requirements.
OMARC Officers
| President | David Brooks | K2JLV | president@omarcclub.org |
| Vice President | Steve Bossert | K2GOG | vicepresident@omarcclub.org |
| Secretary | David Millman | KD2MQE | secretary@omarcclub.org |
| Treasurer | Frank Fiore | KD2EYH | treasurer@omarcclub.org |
| 2022 OMARC CLUB DIRECTORS | ||
| Director | Jeff Lang | KJ2DOC |
| Director | Neil Goldstein | W2NDG |
| Director | Charles Henry | KD2BID |