Leadership and Legacy in Ham Radio with Craig Thompson K9CT
A Spark Ignited
Kevin Thomas, W1DED, had the honor of interviewing Craig Thompson, K9CT, a distinguished figure in the ham radio community. Craig's journey began in an era where geekdom wasn't celebrated as it is today. "I was a geek before geek was cool," Craig recalled with a chuckle. His father, recognizing Craig's fervor for anything technical, introduced him to the world of ham radio with ARRL books. This initial spark ignited Craig's lifelong passion.
The First Step
Craig's entry into ham radio wasn't smooth. He struggled initially, learning Morse code from a book, a method that was far from ideal. However, fate intervened when his mother connected him with a local ham couple who mentored him through the process. Craig vividly remembered the awe he felt upon seeing their advanced Collins equipment. "My jaw dropped," he admitted. This experience solidified his resolve. His perseverance paid off when he received his first call sign, WN9TXL, a moment of elation that set him on his path.
College Days and Beyond
Craig's passion for ham radio didn't wane as he pursued higher education. At Bradley University, he found a haven in the university's club station, W9JWC. There, he was introduced to the art of DXing and contesting by upperclassmen who shared his enthusiasm. "I spent a lot of time at the ham radio station," Craig said, reminiscing about the camaraderie and learning. This period was crucial, shaping his skills and laying the groundwork for his future achievements.
A Brief Hiatus
Life's demands led Craig to step back from ham radio for a period. His career in business and raising a family took precedence. However, the lure of ham radio was never far from his mind. In the early 2000s, Craig felt the need for a hobby he could immerse himself in upon retirement. "I needed a hobby I could really use when I retire," he explained. This foresight brought him back to the airwaves, rekindling his love for DXing and contesting.
The Return
Reentering the ham radio community, Craig faced the challenge of catching up on what he had missed. He sought advice from old friends and mentors, quickly adapting to the advancements in technology. One of his significant achievements was getting back on the DXCC Honor Roll, a testament to his dedication. "I had to get back on the Honor Roll," he stated, reflecting his competitive spirit and determination.
The Dxpedition Experience
Craig's foray into DXpeditions began with a learning experience on Cocos Island. Despite organizational challenges, he gleaned valuable insights into the logistics and nuances of such operations. "You learn a lot," he said, emphasizing the importance of leadership and teamwork. This experience paved the way for more significant opportunities, including trips to Midway Island and other rare DXCC entities.
Building a Superstation
In Illinois, Craig embarked on an ambitious project to build a contest superstation. His meticulous planning and consultation with experts ensured the station's success. "I wanted something better than what I was doing," he explained. His goal was to create a station that not only performed well but also provided a seamless operating experience for his team. The result was a state-of-the-art facility that became a hub for contesting excellence.
Leadership and Mentorship
Craig's contributions to ham radio extend beyond his technical achievements. He has played a significant role in leadership, mentoring young operators, and advocating for the hobby's future. His involvement with the Northern California DX Foundation (NCDXF) underscores his commitment to fostering the next generation of hams. "We need to raise visibility to the hobby," he stressed, highlighting the importance of outreach and education.
The Joy of Teamwork
One of Craig's passions is operating in person with a team. He enjoys the camaraderie and shared excitement that comes from contesting together. "We have a great time," he said, describing the vibrant atmosphere at his station during contests. His emphasis on teamwork and fun has cultivated a loyal group of operators who share his enthusiasm.
Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, Craig is excited about upcoming DXpeditions and the potential for new challenges. His dedication to ham radio remains unwavering, driven by a desire to contribute and inspire. "It's an extraordinary rush to go on a DXpedition," he remarked, capturing the thrill that keeps him engaged in the hobby.
A Vision for the Future
Craig's vision for ham radio is clear: to ensure its vibrancy and relevance for future generations. His efforts to modernize contesting and promote real-time results are steps toward attracting younger operators. "We need to do things to solve that problem," he asserted, recognizing the need for innovation and adaptation.
A Legacy of Passion
Craig Thompson, K9CT, embodies the spirit of ham radio: curiosity, dedication, and a love for learning. His journey, marked by achievements and leadership, serves as an inspiration to both newcomers and seasoned operators. As he continues to explore new horizons in ham radio, Craig's legacy of passion and perseverance will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the community.
