Butler County Amateur Radio Association: Connecting Community through Ham Radio

A Hub for Ham Radio Enthusiasts in Butler County, Pennsylvania

Since its founding in 1953, the Butler County Amateur Radio Association (BCARA) has been a cornerstone of the amateur radio community in Butler County, Pennsylvania. With the call sign W3UDX, the club has become a vibrant hub for both seasoned operators and newcomers eager to learn and participate in the world of ham radio. Whether it’s providing emergency communications, organizing events, or offering educational opportunities, the BCARA plays an important role in the local community.

What Makes BCARA Stand Out?

The Butler County Amateur Radio Association is a general-interest club with members who share a common passion for amateur radio. The club offers a wide range of activities and services, catering to both beginners and advanced operators. Some of the club’s key offerings include:

• License Classes: BCARA organizes Technician-class license courses, providing newcomers with the knowledge and training needed to pass their licensing exams. The club is also involved in hosting Volunteer Exam sessions to help new operators earn their licenses.

• Public Service and Emergency Communications: The club plays a vital role in providing public service during local events and emergencies. They are active in providing communications support for events such as Butler Jeepfest and other community activities.

• Field Day Participation: Every year, the club sponsors and participates in ARRL Field Day, a nationwide event designed to simulate emergency communications and help ham radio operators test their skills.

• Social Events: The club hosts regular social gatherings, including a club picnic, swapfests, and a holiday dinner, creating a sense of camaraderie and community among its members.

A Focus on Education and Mentorship

For those interested in getting involved in amateur radio, BCARA offers a wealth of educational resources. Whether you are looking to pass your Technician-class exam or expand your knowledge, the club’s courses and mentoring programs provide hands-on learning experiences. The BCARA also runs License Test Sessions, where potential new ham radio operators can take their exams in a supportive environment.

Repeaters and Future Plans

The W3UDX 2-meter repeater serves as a key resource for BCARA members, ensuring reliable communication across Butler County and beyond. The club is also working on expanding its reach with plans to establish a DMR repeater, further enhancing communication capabilities for local amateur radio operators.

Get Involved with BCARA

The Butler County Amateur Radio Association is always welcoming new members, whether you are an experienced operator or someone looking to get started in the world of amateur radio. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM at the Christ Community United Methodist Church in Butler, PA.

With 71 active members, the club fosters a supportive, educational environment for all amateur radio enthusiasts. Whether you want to learn more, get involved in community events, or participate in fun and challenging contests, BCARA is the place to be.

Join the Conversation!

For more information about the club, including upcoming events, classes, and how to get involved, visit the official Butler County Amateur Radio Association website.

Club Stats:

• Call Sign: W3UDX
• Members: 71
• Voting Members: 70
• Licensed Amateur Members: 70
• ARRL Members: Active
• Meeting Time: 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM
• Meeting Location: Christ Community United Methodist Church, Butler, PA

Officers:

• President: Michael P. Conlon (N2EM)
• Treasurer: Michael L. Scherer (AB3VE)
• Vice President: Bruce Q. Bailey (AB3ZJ)

Whether you’re an experienced amateur radio operator or just starting your journey, BCARA is a great place to connect with others who share your passion for radio and public service.