Exploring the ARC of the University of Tennessee: A Gateway to Amateur Radio for Students and Beyond

Exploring the ARC of the University of Tennessee: A Gateway to Amateur Radio for Students and Beyond

The Amateur Radio Club (ARC) of the University of Tennessee (AA4UT) is more than just a student club—it's a dynamic community of hobbyists, learners, and educators focused on the fascinating world of amateur radio. Founded in 1978, the ARC provides students, faculty, and the broader community with hands-on experience in amateur radio, an essential skill that blends technology, communication, and public service.

Club Overview

  • Call Sign: AA4UT
  • Affiliation Date: May 20, 1978
  • Specialties: Contesting, Digital Modes, DX, Public Service/Emergency, Repeaters, School/Youth Groups, VHF/UHF
  • Club Services: License Test Sessions, Mentor, Entry-Level and General or Higher License Classes, Packet Radio BBS, Repeater, Club Newsletter.

Club Facilities and Activities

The University of Tennessee Amateur Radio Club offers students and members access to two fully equipped radio stations:

  1. East Stadium Hall Shack
  2. Min Kao Engineering Building Shack

These stations allow members to explore various aspects of amateur radio, from casual chatting to participating in global contests. The club also supports students interested in emergency communications, digital modes, and other technical specialties through its active mentoring programs.

Meetings and Educational Focus

The club holds weekly meetings every Tuesday from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, which are available both in-person at the Min Kao Engineering Building and online via Zoom. This flexible meeting setup is especially valuable during the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

These meetings focus on providing educational content that supports members’ growth in the field of amateur radio, whether they are beginners or experienced operators. Topics range from basic radio operation to more advanced subjects such as digital communication modes and contest techniques.

The ARC also offers ARRL VEC (Volunteer Examiner Coordinator) testing, enabling students and members to earn their licenses directly on campus.

A Welcoming Environment for Learning and Growth

Whether you're a student at the University of Tennessee or simply someone looking to expand your knowledge of amateur radio, the ARC of the University of Tennessee is an ideal environment for learning and networking. The club's focus on mentorship and community helps newcomers feel comfortable while providing advanced operators with challenges that help hone their skills.

The club is also a great resource for anyone interested in the technical side of amateur radio, offering opportunities to engage in contesting, digital modes, and emergency communications—skills that are both fun and incredibly valuable.

Get Involved

The ARC is not just about being a passive member; it's about being actively involved. Whether you're interested in learning about contests, wanting to upgrade your license, or simply curious about how amateur radio works, the club offers a variety of ways to participate. The best part? You don't need to be a student at the University of Tennessee to join!

To learn more or to get involved, visit the University of Tennessee Amateur Radio Club’s website or contact Bobbie E. Williams W1BEW via utarc@utk.edu.


The ARC of the University of Tennessee continues to be a cornerstone of amateur radio education and community engagement, offering valuable skills and experiences that extend far beyond the radio waves. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or community member, this club is a gateway to exploring the world of radio communication.

Reading next

Macon Area Ham Radio Society: A Thriving Community for Amateur Radio Enthusiasts in Lafayette, TN
East Tennessee DX Association: A Hub for DXing and Contesting Enthusiasts

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