About ARCA
The Amateur Radio Council of Arizona has served as the voice of amateur radio in Arizona since 1967.
Our Mission
ARCA exists to support, coordinate, and promote amateur radio across Arizona. We serve as the umbrella organization for 51+ member clubs, helping them collaborate on events, share resources, and grow the hobby.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we reinvest in the amateur radio community through scholarships, awards, and educational initiatives.
What We Do
- -Coordinate statewide amateur radio events
- -Recognize outstanding contributions with Ham of the Year awards
- -Award scholarships to aspiring radio operators
- -Support emergency communications preparedness
- -Promote amateur radio education and licensing
Our History
1967
ARCA founded to coordinate Arizona amateur radio clubs
1970s
Established Ham of the Year awards program
1980s
Began supporting VE testing coordination statewide
1990s
Launched scholarship program for amateur radio education
2000s
Expanded to include emergency communications support
2020s
Modernizing outreach with new digital presence
ARCA in Action
Learn more about ARCA and amateur radio in Arizona.
Visit the ARCA YouTube channel for more videos.
Board of Directors (2025-2026)
ARCA is led by a volunteer board of directors elected by member clubs. Officers serve one-year terms and are elected at the annual meeting.
James Wasson
N7ELL
Chairperson
Rick Aldom
W7STS
1st Vice-Chairperson
Brian McCarthy
AK7F
2nd Vice-Chairperson
David Bjorgaard
K7ACE
Secretary
Christine Kesauer
N7PVL
Treasurer
Charlie Zurenko
N5TFS
Past Chairperson
Interested in getting involved? Contact us to learn about volunteer opportunities or how your club can become a member.
Meeting Minutes
ARCA council meeting minutes dating back to 2006 are available for review and download.
View Minutes Archive →ARCA Bylaws
Recognition Programs
Ham of the Year
Awarded annually to amateur radio operators who have made outstanding contributions to the hobby in Arizona. Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected by the ARCA board.
ARCA Scholarships
Annual scholarships support students pursuing education in electronics, communications, or related STEM fields. Applicants must hold an amateur radio license.