The Suffolk County Radio Club (SCRC) hit a significant digital milestone yesterday, Sunday February 8th, successfully conducting its very first fully remote Volunteer Examiner (VE) session. While the club has a long-standing history of fostering the amateur radio community, this move into the virtual testing space signals a bold, forward-looking leap into the future of the hobby.
As one of the first clubs in the ARRL New York City – Long Island section to transition to fully digital testing using tablets, SCRC is proving that “old school” radio doesn’t mean staying behind the tech curve.
A Successful Day of Licensing
The session wasn’t just a technical success; it was a win for the candidates. The VE team processed a diverse group of applicants, ranging from local club talent to the next generation of operators:
- Internal Growth: One dedicated SCRC club member successfully passed their exam, earning an upgrade to General Class.
- The Next Generation: Three students from Brooklyn Tech High School joined the session remotely. Their results were impressive:
- One student successfully upgraded to General Class.
- Two students earned their stripes as brand-new Technician Class operators.
Innovation in the NYC-LI Section
By utilizing a fully digital workflow, the SCRC VE team has streamlined the testing process, reducing paperwork lag and ensuring that new hams can get on the air faster than ever. This transition to remote testing removes geographical barriers, allowing the club to support students and enthusiasts from across the region—and beyond.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
A milestone like this requires a steady hand at the helm. The club extends a special thank you to Seth, N2SPG, whose expertise and guidance were instrumental in preparing the VE team for the nuances of remote proctoring. His leadership ensured the session was both secure and seamless for the candidates.
“This session proves that the Suffolk County Radio Club isn’t just keeping up with the times—we are setting the pace. By embracing remote, digital testing, we are ensuring that amateur radio remains accessible and exciting for the modern era.”
The success of yesterday’s session is a testament to the club’s commitment to growth, education, and the “forward-looking approach” that has become a hallmark of the SCRC.
If you or someone you know is looking to take the Technician exam or an upgrade to general or Amateur Extra please reach out to the SCRC VE team to schedule your in person or online exam.
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