How an Amateur Radio Journey Was Nurtured With the Right Communication Tools

 

Because today is all about digital communication and social media, the allure of amateur radio may seem anachronistic to some. Yet for enthusiasts like Jackson Mettler, it represents a world of curiosity, learning, and community. From childhood walkie-talkie games to founding his high school’s first amateur radio club and dreams of a career in radio communications, Mettler’s journey embodies a thriving subculture that exists parallel to our wireless, broadband world. 

The young amateur radio member talked about his passion with ICOM, his educational outreach efforts, and his experiences in the world of ham radio.

Recent Episodes

In the latest episode of Beyond the Pavise, host Blaine Bowman is joined by two public safety veterans—Chris Shearer from Milestone Systems and Dean Cunningham from Axis Communications—to explore how technology is transforming the future of urban safety. With decades of combined experience in law enforcement, Chris and Dean now help cities harness video,…

Few places on Earth are as remote—or as thrilling—as Bouvet Island. Located deep in the South Atlantic Ocean and often battered by fierce winds and icy seas, it’s one of the most isolated spots on the planet. Reaching it requires months of planning, physical endurance, and a daring spirit. For amateur radio operators, however, Bouvet…

In February 2026, an international team of 24 amateur radio operators will embark on a bold mission to one of the most remote and inhospitable places on Earth—Bouvet Island. Among the world’s most isolated islands, Bouvet offers no harbor, no shelter, and no easy way in. Yet from this icy outpost in the South…