This morning, I took the Element 3 exam and passed! I now have a General Class License (well, officially…just temporary operating privileges with a CSCE until the FCC processes the paperwork). I’ve been thinking about doing this on and off for over 25 years and I finally made the time. It’s been just over a month since I started studying for the license upgrade from Technician to General. I passed the Element 2 exam for the Technician Class License on September 2nd, 2017. I learned a lot for both tests, some of which I will probably never use in the hobby, but a lot that I will use and benefit from.
I am excited about the increased privileges and the ability to connect with people via DXing, especially the prospect of international contacts, although that will take time and a better understanding of how to optimize for distance, especially considering that my gear right now is focused on QRP. A 100 watt amplifier is likely a near-term purchase. Now, the real learning begins…