In the heart of West-Central Pennsylvania, the Quad County Amateur Radio Club (QCARC) has been serving the local communities of Clearfield, Jefferson, Elk, and Cameron Counties since 1975. With a focus on public service, education, and community engagement, this ARRL-affiliated club has become a cornerstone of the regional amateur radio scene.
A Hub for New Hams and Veteran Operators
At the core of QCARC’s mission is its unwavering support for both newcomers and experienced operators. The club is committed to making amateur radio accessible to all, offering mentor services and guidance to new hams eager to get started. With many seasoned members on hand, the club is a valuable resource for those seeking advice and hands-on support as they transition from learning to active operation.
For those just entering the world of amateur radio, QCARC hosts bi-monthly VE exam sessions in even-numbered months, providing a structured path for those working toward their license. These sessions are held at the club’s regular meeting venue, the Smeal Building Conference Center at Penn State Du Bois.
A Strong Community Focus
While amateur radio is often thought of as a solitary pursuit, QCARC proves time and again that it’s about community—both within the club and beyond. The club’s members are deeply involved in local public service, offering vital emergency communication support during times of crisis. They maintain a variety of repeaters to ensure that both local and regional communications remain operational, particularly during emergencies.
As part of its public service efforts, the club also participates in national events like Field Day, where members come together to demonstrate their skills, set up portable stations, and communicate with other amateur radio operators across the country. This event is not only a fun and educational experience but also reinforces the club's mission to provide communications assistance when needed.
Engagement Beyond the Radio
QCARC is much more than just a meeting place for operators. The club’s monthly newsletter, The Parasitic Emission, keeps members informed about club activities, amateur radio news, and upcoming events. The club’s regular meetings, held on the third Tuesday of each month at Penn State Du Bois, provide a space for members to connect, share experiences, and discuss ongoing projects.
A Focus on Education and Outreach
Education is a key part of the club’s DNA. Through its monthly meetings and publications, QCARC aims to expand knowledge about the field of amateur radio and inspire the next generation of operators. Whether it’s offering license test sessions, providing a platform for general interest discussions, or hosting community outreach programs, QCARC remains committed to growing the amateur radio community.
As a club, they recognize the importance of repeater systems and VHF/UHF technology, enabling more efficient communication within their region. These systems ensure that the club remains well-connected and ready to assist when needed.
Looking Ahead: More Ways to Get Involved
The future of QCARC looks bright, with continued focus on community outreach and education. The club is actively working to ensure that amateur radio remains a thriving and accessible hobby, not just for seasoned operators but also for those just getting started. The next generation of hams is ready to take the airwaves, and QCARC is here to help them make that happen.
Join the Conversation
With a vibrant, welcoming community of 23 dedicated members and a strong commitment to public service, the Quad County Amateur Radio Club is more than just a hobbyist group—it’s a cornerstone of communication and service in West-Central Pennsylvania. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just starting out, QCARC offers something for everyone.
For more information about upcoming meetings, events, and educational opportunities, visit their website at QCARC.org.
Get on the airwaves—your community is waiting to hear from you.
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.