🎓 Elmer Support Program
Every new ham deserves a mentor. W0ENO’s Elmer program connects you with experienced operators who love sharing the hobby.
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What Is an Elmer?
In amateur radio, an “Elmer” is an experienced operator who mentors a newer ham — helping them grow their skills, tackle technical challenges, and get the most from the hobby. The term has been part of amateur radio culture since the 1970s and reflects the community spirit that makes ham radio unique. At LARC, we formalize this tradition through our Elmer Support Program so that no new member has to figure things out alone.
“Every ham was a new ham once. The best thing you can do for the hobby is pass on what was given to you.”— Longmont Amateur Radio Club tradition
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What Your Elmer Can Help With
🎙️ Getting on the Air
First QSO, operating etiquette, repeater use, net check-ins, and building confidence on the mic or key.
📻 Equipment Setup
Programming your radio, choosing an antenna, setting up a shack, and troubleshooting interference and noise issues.
📡 Digital Modes
Getting started with FT8, JS8Call, DMR, D-STAR, APRS, Winlink, and more. Software setup and best practices.
📋 Licensing & Upgrading
Study strategies for Technician, General, or Extra class exams. We help you find the right resources and study materials.
🏕️ POTA / SOTA / Field Ops
Planning a Parks on the Air or Summits on the Air activation, portable antenna setup, and field operating techniques.
🚨 Emergency Communications
Getting involved with BCARES (Boulder County Amateur Radio Emergency Service) and emergency preparedness operations.
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How the Program Works
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Submit a Request
Fill out the short form below describing what you’d like help with. You don’t need to be a LARC member — the Elmer program is open to all Boulder County amateurs.
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We Match You with an Elmer
Our program coordinator reviews your request and matches you with a LARC volunteer whose experience fits your goals. Most matches are made within a week.
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Connect and Learn
You and your Elmer connect by phone, email, or in person at a club meeting. There’s no fixed schedule — work at your own pace. Many Elmer relationships last for years.
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Become an Elmer Yourself
When you’re ready, give back by volunteering as an Elmer. Helping others is one of the most rewarding parts of amateur radio.
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Volunteer as an Elmer
✅ Who Can Volunteer?
Any licensed amateur radio operator who is a LARC member in good standing. No minimum license class required — Technicians can mentor new Techs on VHF/UHF operations.
⏱️ Time Commitment
There’s no minimum. Even a few hours per year helping a new ham get on the air makes a real difference. You set your own availability.
📧 How to Sign Up
Use the form below and select “I’d like to volunteer as an Elmer.” Our coordinator will add you to the volunteer list and contact you when a match is available.
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Request an Elmer — or Volunteer as One
Fill out this form and our Elmer program coordinator will be in touch within a few days.
Your information will only be shared with the Elmer program coordinator and your matched mentor/student. We do not share contact details with third parties.
Not sure about the Elmer program? Come meet us at a club meeting — the best way to find a mentor is in person.
See Meeting Schedule
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