If Dayton Hamvention® doesn’t satisfy your need for wireless exuberance, the so-called “World Series of RF” will convene in Phoenix, Arizona, the following week — May 17-22. The annual IEEE International Microwave Symposium (IMS) attracts thousands of professional and academic RF specialists every year — many of them radio amateurs. And ARRL will have a seat at the table, so to speak.

For the third year, the ARRL exhibit will be in “student row” to introduce Amateur Radio to conference attendees. The potential audience includes students of all interests, as well as educators interested in applying the hands-on nature of ham radio to help students gain practical experience. This year, ARRL will focus on the three themes: Gaining experience, career development, and the wealth of spectrum that ham radio offers to anyone interested in RF and RF technologies.

More than 500 exhibitors will be at IMS 2015, along with materials and services vendors, top of the line equipment manufacturers, and exotic new startups looking to publicize their technology. Don’t let the word “microwave” intimidate you. There is something of interest starting below the AM Standard Broadcast band all the way to the millimeter wavelengths.

Part of the IMS fun is a significant academic presence. Hundreds of students and educators participate in workshops, design competitions, and the presentation of papers and posters. Along the way, they exchange ideas and get acquainted with other programs from universities and colleges around the world.

This year’s 16 design competitions range from wideband baluns to SDRs to high-efficiency power amplifiers and high-sensitivity receivers. Post-secondary educational interest in communications and wireless technology has never been higher.

If you’re an RF professional and plan to attend IMS 2015, the ARRL invites your help to explain and promote Amateur Radio to show visitors. Contact the ARRL’s IMS exhibit manager, Ward Silver, N0AX, and learn how you can share your stories of how ham radio has helped spark your interest and sustain the arc of your RF career!