Jeffrey Tillman, AE5JT

I was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, where I currently live with my wife and two lab mixes. My interest in amateur radio began as a backup form of communication while spending time hunting in more remote portions of Texas, and my interest has continued to grow exponentially since. In November 2021, I took and passed both my Technician and General exams and became licensed as KI5SMF. I did not like that call sign, so I quickly applied for a vanity and became K5JMT. In May 2022, I upgraded to amateur extra and became AE5JT.

I really enjoy Parks on the Air and activate as often as I can, and often hunt parks from home as well. There is something peaceful about enjoying our wonderful hobby outside. I also enjoy working on and improving my portable setup. I am also involved in Fort Worth RACES, ARES, and Skywarn. Lastly, I am a member of Cowtown Amateur Radio Club (K5COW).

I began learning CW at the beginning of this year and seemed to take to it quickly. I have really enjoyed the process of learning CW. The CWops Academy is a fantastic resource. Without it, I would be nowhere near competent.

Other than radio, my hobbies include hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and bird watching. It has been a lot of fun integrating radio into the hobbies that pre-existed it.

I would like to end by thanking several very special CWops members. First, I would like to thank my CWops Academy advisors, Mike (KI7OMH) and Bob (KC9JVB). Their dedication to helping our class learn CW and positive attitudes were instrumental to the success of our class. Second, I would like to thank my nominator and sponsors: Bob (N4BP), Shelby (K4WW), Joe (W6AYC), and Jim (N7AUE). Lastly, I would like to thank Sam (NM5N). Sam introduced me to CW and suggested I attend CWops Academy. He has also put up with an endless stream of questions from me and helped me immensely through my CW journey. I am truly grateful for all of these fine ops and for the opportunity to be a CWops member.