Biography

Hello! I’m Caleb, from the countryside of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Licensed as a Technician in early 2023 at 19 years old and quickly upgrading to General just a few months later, I’ve been enjoying the world of amateur radio since. As everyone says, it’s indeed a rabbit hole! Whether it’s making those fun DX contacts, experimenting with cutting-edge digital modes, or introducing more youth or anyone to our amazing hobby/art, I love everything radio has to offer. My technology background is entirely self-taught, and I’ve developed great skills in computers, Linux, and networking that perfectly go along with my radio interests.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caleb_j176/

Website: KC3VPB.COM

Mastodon: https://mastodon.radio/@kc3vpb

CLUBS: PODXS 070 #2972 | Cumberland Valley Amateur Radio Club (W3ACH)


Again I've always been drawn to technology, computers, and how things work, including when it comes to anything else tech. Growing up, I spent probably way too many hours tinkering with software, learning how computers worked, and figuring out how to make different systems communicate with each other. That hobby and passion also led me to learn other areas that weren't even related to the whole IT side, like doing Microsoft flight simulator and being fascinated by learning information on aircraft and computer systems. It seems that anything computers I seem to pick up on and learn a lot, even on unrelated topics.


But school was a different story. I struggled academically and socially. I had no real friends and was frequently bullied. I was that kid sitting with no one, no wanted to be friends with etc, my grades suffered as a result. Eventually, my parents pulled me out of traditional school, and I transitioned to cyber school. It wasn’t until I turned 21 that I was diagnosed with Nonverbal Learning Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. The diagnosis made sense, I had always struggled with processing information, navigating social situations, and keeping up with traditional academics, but I never understood why. I also was diagnosed with high-functioning autism which solves a lot of puzzle pieces that I was questioning over the years.

"For the first time, I really felt a sense of belonging, friendship and feeling part of a community. Ham radio has been the perfect mix of my interests

How Did I Discover Radio?
I stumbled across The Modern Rogue YouTube channel, and that’s where I first heard about ham radio. One video in particular, a fun take on Winlink and "sending nuclear codes" and that caught my attention. Sure, it was a joke, but the concept fascinated me. I went down a rabbit hole, watching more videos about radios and communication. I knew instantly: this was something I had to try, I studied hard for my Technician exam and passed on my first attempt, only missing two questions. This was a stark contrast to my struggles in school. It proved that when I’m truly interested in something, I can learn, understand, and excel. For the first time, I felt a good sense of belonging and friendship.



What Do I Do When Not On The Radio?
When I'm not on the air, I'm usually still doing something with technology. I'm fascinated by networking, automation, and in general how things work basically. My goal is to turn this passion into a career in IT Support or System Administration. I know my journey doesn't look like everyone else's, but success isn't always a straight line. It's about adapting and finding joy in what you love. Despite my job loss, I'm actively looking for a new opportunity where I can really dig in and grow.



I also do lots of web design and such too. Static websites and WordPress websites. So if you ever need a website, be sure to contact me!

Worked DXCCs:

Equipment

Home Station
Rig: Yaesu FT-710 Field
Backup: Xiegu G90 (My first HF rig!)
Antenna: EFHW Sloper @ ~25-28 ft

Portable / POTA
Rig: Yaesu FT-710 Field
Power: LifePO4 Battery 150AH
Antenna: JNCRADIO MC-750 Vertical