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CCARCN7RB

License Classes

Seasonal classes help new and advancing hams study with local support, clear expectations, and a path to the exam.

This free public education program advances CCARC's nonprofit mission by helping people in Helena and Lewis and Clark County earn an amateur radio license and build useful communication skills.

Confirmed & Open for Enrollment

CCARC Technician License Class — Fall 2026

Starts
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Schedule
Six consecutive Wednesdays, September 9 – October 14
Time
6:00–7:30 PM (Q&A until 8:00 PM)
Location
Helena Salvation Army (1905 Henderson St., Helena, MT)
Cost
Free
Class Size
Limited to 15 students
Reserve Your SpotGet Directions

Six-week curriculum

What You'll Learn in Technician Class

Each session combines clear instruction, practical examples, and time for questions. Allen KH7AL leads every class with support from experienced session mentors.

Session 1 (September 9) — FCC Rules & Radio Regulations

Allen KH7AL with Devon N7HNT

  • Understand what amateur radio is and why people participate in the hobby
  • Learn basic FCC licensing structure and frequency allocations
  • Understand call signs and operating etiquette
  • Learn about the amateur radio frequency bands and their uses

Session 2 (September 16) — Radio Fundamentals & Electronics

Allen KH7AL with a session mentor to be announced

  • Understand basic electricity concepts: voltage, current, resistance, and Ohm’s Law
  • Learn frequency and wavelength basics
  • Understand modulation and how radio signals work
  • Learn about basic radio components and circuits

Session 3 (September 23) — Antennas, Feedlines & Propagation

Allen KH7AL with a session mentor to be announced

  • Understand basic antenna types and their practical uses
  • Learn about feedline choices and transmission line theory
  • Discover how radio signals propagate across distance
  • Understand line-of-sight communication and skip propagation
  • Learn why antenna placement matters for signal strength

Session 4 (September 30) — Operating Practices & Emergency Communications

Allen KH7AL with Al Simons (WA1TYB)

  • Learn proper repeater operation and etiquette
  • Understand local and regional nets and how to participate
  • Learn the basics of emergency communications
  • Discover tactical communication concepts
  • Understand logging and Q-signals for efficient communication

Session 5 (October 7) — Station Setup, Safety & Digital Modes

Allen KH7AL with a session mentor to be announced

  • Understand station grounding and electrical safety practices
  • Learn power supply and battery basics for portable operation
  • Explore digital modes including FT8, Winlink, and packet radio
  • Understand RF exposure and safe operating practices

Session 6 (October 14) — Exam Review & Getting On the Air

Allen KH7AL with Rob Kingery (AE7AP)

  • Review common weak exam areas and practice questions
  • Learn realistic first-station recommendations and equipment choices
  • Understand next steps after getting your license
  • Build confidence for exam day
  • Optional: Take your FCC Technician exam the same day

Technician Prep Course

This is the recommended entry point for new amateur radio operators. The next confirmed session is the Fall 2026 class detailed above.

Join the Next Technician Class

General Prep Course

Hosted twice per year: Q2 and Q4. This class helps licensed Technicians expand into HF and long-distance operating.

Join the Next General Class

Instructor Contact

Use the class signup form below for instructor questions, schedule needs, or help choosing the right class.

Meet your instructors

Enrollment

Class size is capped at 15 students to keep hands-on time with the instructor. Reserve your spot early using the form below.

About Your Instructors

Allen Le Vie (KH7AL) leads all Technician class sessions, bringing hands-on experience and a patient teaching style. Allen learned basic and advanced electronic systems theory through 23 years in the USAF before retiring in 2020. He is also CCARC's Membership Growth Committee Chair and has mentored dozens of new operators through their first on-air contacts.

Session mentors and guest instructors add depth and real-world perspective to specific topics:

  • Devon N7HNT — Session 1, FCC Rules & Regulations
  • Al Simons (WA1TYB) — Session 4, Operating Practices & Emergency Communications. Al is CCARC's Treasurer and ARES Coordinator.
  • Rob Kingery (AE7AP) — Session 6, Exam Review & First Station Guidance. Rob is the Montana SOTA Association Manager and brings active outdoor radio experience.

More mentors are being added to provide well-rounded perspectives across the diverse hobby.

Support beyond the classroom

After the Exam: Ham-101 Mentorship Program

Passing the FCC exam is an exciting milestone — but getting comfortable on the air is the next step.

CCARC's Ham-101 program matches newly licensed Technicians and General class graduates with an experienced club mentor based on their interests and goals. Whether you're interested in emergency communications, outdoor adventure radio (SOTA/POTA), digital modes, building projects, or casual conversation, we'll pair you with someone who shares your passion.

Your mentor helps you:

  • Set up your first station and choose equipment
  • Make your first on-air contacts with confidence
  • Learn local repeater practices, nets, and community norms
  • Troubleshoot questions during your first weeks
  • Build the skills and knowledge to become an active operator
Ask About Ham-101 Mentorship

Get Started in Ham Radio

Reserve a Spot

Tell us which class you are interested in. A club volunteer will follow up with next steps and beginner-friendly study resources.

Required fields are first name, last name, email address, class interest, experience level, main interests, and preferred contact method.

Main interests

Choose all that apply so we can point you toward useful resources.

Preferred contact method

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this for complete beginners?

Yes. No experience is required. We start from the basics and assume no prior knowledge of radio, electronics, or FCC rules.

What if I can’t make every session?

Missing one session is understandable — just communicate with your instructor. Missing multiple sessions may make it harder to keep up because the material builds on itself, so consistent attendance is important for exam readiness.

Do I need to buy anything?

The class and study materials are free. We highly recommend the ARRL Technician License Manual (about $36) as a study reference. It is available through Amazon or ARRL.org. Many students also use free resources such as HamStudy.org.

What should I bring to class?

Bring a notebook and something to write with. Questions and curiosity are also welcome.

Is there a cost to take the FCC exam?

The Volunteer Examiner session has a small exam fee (about $15) to cover testing administration costs. CCARC volunteers administer the exam at no additional charge beyond the standard VE fee.

What happens after I pass the exam?

Welcome to the hobby! CCARC's Ham-101 mentorship program matches you with a club mentor based on your interests. Your mentor helps you set up your first station, make your first on-air contacts, and become a confident operator.

Can I still join if I’m a licensed ham looking to upgrade to General?

Yes. We offer General class twice per year, in Q2 and Q4. Sign up using the form above and indicate your experience level and interest in General class.