Joe began his Ham radio hobby at the age of 11 experimenting with a crystal radio set as a Christmas present. It was fascinating how AM stations could be heard on such a simple device without any batteries. The mystery and intrigue of simple electronics led to transistor radios, shortwave radios, and then to Ham radio. Joe pursued his Novice license and learned the "code"- CW, and then took the Novice test and passed receiving a call sign of WN0EDD. After a year of operating, he began studying for the General class while increasing his CW speed to 13 WPM and passed at age 13 where he changed call signs to WB0EDD. He operated as a General class during his teenage years owning a number of radios including a few "boat anchors". After getting married, he upgraded to Advanced Class and received call sign KG0HG which he still maintains to this day. As part of a "Covid" project, he studied for his Extra Class and received that upgrade in 2020. After 54 years as an Amateur, even though those old radios of the past are long-gone, and replaced with updated gear, his love of Ham radio and all the various facets of the hobby still remain.
In 1979, Joe graduated with a degree in Electronics Technology and has worked primarily in telecommunications engineering and data networking, and is looking at retirement soon where he can spend more time being radio-active in the hobby, woodworking, hiking/backpacking, biking the trails, and being a grandpa.
Joe lives in Independence, MO with his wife of 44 years, and has 3 grown children and a new grandchild. He has served in various positions in his church, including bible study leader, and is a volunteer for several philanthropic organizations. He is currently member of the K0GQ Raytown Amateur Radio Club and helps host the on-the-air club net get-togethers on Sunday evenings.
If you're looking for some help with your journey in radio, he'd be happy to be a mentor or Elmer along the way for you.