Skip to content
MarketScale
‹ Back to IndustriesProfessional AV

Tech-Mom Journey: From CERT to Stars, Inspiring the Next Generation with Desiree Baccus

This episode of Radios in Action features Desiree Baccus, Director and CMO of Rocky Mountain Ham Radio, who shares how her path from single mother to amateur radio leader began with emergency response training. Host Ray Novak and Baccus discuss how amateur radio can spark technology interest in women and younger generations. Her story illustrates how curiosity and community engagement can lead to unexpected careers in tech and communications.

This story was produced through MarketScale. See how Professional AV teams put it to work with Customer Stories & Case Studies.

Promoted content from Icom on MarketScale.

By Ray Novak · Desiree BaccusIcomNasaRay Novak
Share

Key takeaways

01

Desiree Baccus transitioned from a single mother with IT interest to a leader in amateur radio and tech education through CERT and ham radio.

02

Amateur radio serves as a practical gateway to emergency preparedness, community engagement, and broader STEM careers.

03

Intentional outreach strategies are needed to attract women and youth to amateur radio and technology fields.

In a world where technology and communication are paramount, the story of Desiree Baccus stands as a testament to the power of curiosity and adaptability. As a single mother who delved into the tech world to inspire her children, Baccus' journey from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to the realms of amateur radio and NASA showcases how embracing technology can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career paths. Today, Baccus' tech-mom journey is inspiring and shaping the next generation.

Today, Baccus' tech-mom journey is inspiring and shaping the next generation.

What role can amateur radio play in fostering a passion for technology and communication, especially among women and young people? This is the question at the heart of the latest episode of Radios in Action, where host Ray Novak and guest Desiree Baccus, Director and CMO of Rocky Mountain Ham Radio, explore Baccus' tech-mom journey and its implications for inspiring future tech enthusiasts.

Key discussion points include:

  • Baccus' tech-mom journey from a single mom to a leader in amateur radio and tech education.
  • The importance of amateur radio in emergency preparedness and community engagement.
  • Strategies for promoting technology and amateur radio among women and the younger generation.

Desiree Baccus' journey is a vivid example of how personal passion for technology can evolve into a mission to educate and inspire others. With a background in IT and a deep involvement in amateur radio, Baccus is a beacon for those looking to explore the intersections of technology, communication, and community.

Icom

Part of this channel

Icom

Professional radio communication for land, sea, air, and public safety.

Visit the channel →

About the author

Ray Novak
Ray NovakSenior Sales Manager

I would say I have the perfect job...meeting wonder people, promoting a great hobby to anyone and everyone who will listen. Learning new technology and sharing my Amateur Radio experiences with all my friends and family. I enjoy contesting, DXpeditions, Emergency Communication solutions, really anything to do with HF and D-STAR. Be kind to the youth of today, they write your CCR's of tomorrow!

Professional AV: are you visible to AI?

Before they reach out, Professional AV buyers ask AI engines which vendors to trust. See how AI describes your company today, and where competitors show up instead.

Free workspace

You just read one expert. Imagine publishing your whole team.

This article was produced through MarketScale. Create a free workspace and turn your own team's expertise into articles, video, and social posts. No credit card, no demo required.

NPS +73 · 1,000+ creators · 38+ countries

What you get, free

Your own MarketScale Studio workspace
One video edit a month, on us
AI writing, editing, and publishing tools
In-platform coaching to learn the system

More Professional AV Insights

Jabra expands the Evolve3 headset range with three models for different workstyles

Jabra expands the Evolve3 headset range with three models for different workstyles

Jabra has introduced three new headsets in its Evolve3 range, designed for different workstyles, including desk-based, open-office, and hybrid environments. These headsets will be available globally starting September 2026. Jabra aims to cater to various professional audio-visual needs with this expansion.

  • 01Jabra adds three new headsets to the Evolve3 range.
  • 02Headsets cater to desk-based, open-office, and hybrid workers.
  • 03Available globally from September 2026.

Jul 1, 2026

LG ELECTRONICS UNVEILS STANBYME 2 MAX: AN IMMERSIVE PERSONAL SCREEN WITH A LARGER 32-INCH 4K DISPLAY

LG Electronics has unveiled the StanbyME 2 Max, a 32-inch 4K display that serves as a versatile and movable screen for personal use. The lifestyle display adapts effortlessly to various environments and lifestyles, offering a high-quality visual experience. This latest offering from LG continues the brand's tradition of creating innovative and award-winning electronics.

  • 01LG introduces the StanbyME 2 Max, a 32-inch 4K display.
  • 02The display is designed for versatility and mobility in various environments.
  • 03This product builds on LG's reputation for award-winning electronic solutions.

Jun 29, 2026

InfoComm 2026 felt different: less specs, more real problem-solving

InfoComm 2026 felt different: less specs, more real problem-solving

InfoComm 2026 focused more on solving real-world problems rather than just showcasing specifications. The event highlighted a shift towards practical applications and solutions in the Pro AV industry. Attendees discussed innovative approaches to addressing industry challenges.

  • 01Shift in focus from specifications to problem-solving at InfoComm 2026.
  • 02Increased emphasis on practical applications in the Pro AV industry.
  • 03Discussion on innovative solutions to industry challenges.

Jun 22, 2026

Explore More Professional AV Insights

Read more expert perspectives from across Professional AV.

Browse Professional AV Hub

About the Experts

Ray Novak
Ray Novak

Product Manager / Amateur Radio Expert at Icom America

Ray Novak (callsign N9JA) is a product manager and amateur radio advocate at Icom America. He hosts the 'Radios in Action' podcast series for Icom, covering topics in amateur radio, emergency communications, and technology outreach. Novak is an active voice in promoting ham radio to new audiences.

DB
Desiree Baccus

Director and CMO

Rocky Mountain Ham Radio

Desiree Baccus (callsign N3DEZ) is a single mother turned technology advocate who entered the tech world through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and amateur radio. She serves as Director and CMO of Rocky Mountain Ham Radio and is active in promoting STEM, amateur radio, and emergency preparedness among women and youth. Her journey has extended to collaboration with NASA-related amateur radio initiatives.