For the fourth consecutive year, the ARRL will be represented at the IEEE International Microwave Symposium (IMS). The theme at the May 23-27 event in San Francisco is, “Connecting minds, exchanging ideas.” The IEEE Microwave Theory and Techniques Society sponsors the conference and hosts meetings of its various technical committees. Dubbed “The World Series of RF,” the IMS annually attracts some 10,000 wireless industry professionals, university educators, and STEM students. Hundreds of companies exhibit RF-related products. The IMS features 3 days of technical presentations along with continuous mini-presentations on the exhibit floor which include a panel session on Amateur Radio in Education at the university level. The League is encouraging industry professionals to visit the ARRL booth in the University area.

“This is an opportunity to share ideas on encouraging students and educators to become involved in Amateur Radio to further their personal and professional development,” ARRL Contributing Editor Ward Silver, N0AX, said.

“At the IMS, there is a student design competition with a wide variety of challenges, ranging from wideband baluns to computer-aided design for microwave semiconductors,” Silver pointed out. “Students also have paper and poster presentations. Universities have booths that present information on their wireless and RF programs.” Silver will be attending this year’s IMS, managing the ARRL booth and helping to represent Amateur Radio.

A Ham Radio Social will be held on Tuesday, May 24, for hams attending the conference. “Typically, more than 100 hams from around the world get together at the conference,” Silver said. “It’s a great opportunity to make connections and explore ideas after a busy day on the convention floor.”

Silver invited IMS attendees to stop by the ARRL booth to contribute their ideas and suggestions. “Companies hire hams, because they have practical experience with RF and communication systems that other students do not,” he pointed out. “How can we spread the word?” Silver said the ARRL booth could use some volunteers to talk with show attendees, students, educators, and others. Contact Silver if you’re willing to assist.