Congratulations to EAWA member Jeff KA1DBE on receiving the Maine Ham Radio Operator of the Year Award! His enthusiasm and dedication to this great hobby is evident to everyone who knows him. In a recent conversation Jeff said, “I’ve never really gotten bored with ham radio. There is always something to learn.” That statement, along with sharing and teaching what he’s learned, are clearly the primary sources of motivation and energy that keep him immersed in all things ham radio.
Over the years Jeff has built quite an impressive radio resume. When asked to name three or four of his most satisfying radio adventures, he began with the many years he worked entirely QRP (low power, usually 5 watts). His eyes lit up as he talked about the kits he built and/or used for QRP operating, including NorCal CW paddles, the wilderness radio version of the NorCal Sierra, an Oak Hills Research QRP Wattmeter, and a Heathkit HW-8. His primary radio in his QRP days was a Ten Tec Argonaut 509.
Jeff welcomed the blending of computer and radio technologies, particularly the development of packet radio. His love of radio exploration found him activating many modes, including PSK-31, FLdigi, and WSJT-X. Also, after seeing a satellite demonstration at a Field Day event, he was motivated to learn more about satellite communications. The first time he heard his callsign returning from space while working a satellite was, for him, an “aha moment.” At the time, he was using an FT-726R and everything was done by hand.
Another set of satisfying experiences revolved around accomplishing WAS (Worked All States), DXCC (100 entities or countries), and 5BDXCC (100 entities on each of 5 bands). He also completed WAS and DXCC on Phone, Digital, and CW. He added, “All of these were accomplished with 100 watts or less and wire or vertical antennas.” Jeff has kept his first call sign, KA1DBE, and is proud to the be only one to have used that call while working toward these challenging awards.
When asked about his favorite yearly radio activities, he mentioned Winter Field Day, ARRL International DX CW, the Stew Perry Top Band Distance Challenge, the Milliwatt Sprint sponsored by the NCQCC, and Hoot Owl Sprints sponsored by the QRP Amateur Radio Club International.
Jeff first attended an EAWA meeting in 1978, before he was old enough to drive. His Elmer (mentor) Don Frost, K1WJY provided the rides. (Don is a silent key. EAWA member Chris Stanley, Don’s grandson, now has the K1WJY call.) Jeff earned his license in May 1979. Life took him elsewhere after high school, and he returned to the area and the club in 2015. He served as the club President for many years. Today Jeff serves as the Field Day Coordinator and the Director of our Annual Symposium. He is the founder of the Maine State POTA (Parks On The Air) Day and the head of the Maine Chapter of the NAQCC (North American QRP Club).
When asked what the near future holds, Jeff’s responses moved from traditional tube gear, as he is in the process of restoring a Heathkit 301/401 combo, to experimenting with moon bounce. He would also like to do more POTA and SOTA (Summits On The Air), as well as operate more on 160 meters.
Current EAWA President John KQ1P described Jeff as “curiosity driven,” highlighting the core theme of life-long learning, exploration, and experimentation in ham radio. As he shared stories about how radio technology and practice changed over time, Jeff continually put the emphasis on, “just try it.” His excitement and energy for ham radio is contagious. Receiving the 2026 Maine Ham Radio Operator of the Year Award is a small way to say “thank you” to one who has inspired, educated, and motivated many of us.
Written by Marion W1GRL
W1TU 