Amateur Radio: A Strategic Asset for America's Economy

The commercial world and amateur radio are not competitors — they are vital partners in America’s technology ecosystem.

Jim Idelson

10 Apr 2025 — 1 min read

At a time when the FCC is reviewing its regulations and evaluating services through initiatives like "Delete, delete, delete," it's critical to recognize that amateur radio doesn’t just serve hobbyists — it strengthens the American economy.

Building the STEM Workforce

Amateur radio is one of the most effective on-ramps to careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Operators gain early, hands-on experience with communications technology, cybersecurity, digital networking, and advanced electronics. These skills launch careers that fuel innovation across industries — from telecommunications and aerospace to AI and cybersecurity.

Enhancing National Resilience

Reliable communications are essential to economic stability. Amateur radio operators provide critical backup capabilities during natural disasters and emergencies when commercial systems fail. By supporting amateur radio, we ensure that businesses and communities recover faster, supply chains remain intact, and disruptions are minimized.

Accelerating Innovation

The amateur bands are a living laboratory where inventors experiment freely. Innovations born out of amateur radio — from packet radio to digital communications — have seeded entire industries. Protecting this space ensures the U.S. remains at the forefront of wireless technology development.

Building Public Trust in Wireless Technologies

Amateur radio promotes technical literacy and public service. It creates a culture of trust and excitement around wireless technologies — building community support for broader commercial innovation and infrastructure growth.

The Bottom Line

Supporting amateur radio isn't just good for public service — it's good for business. It builds the workforce, protects critical infrastructure, accelerates innovation, and fosters public trust in wireless technologies.

As the FCC considers the future, let's be clear: what’s good for amateur radio is good for Americans and for America’s economy.

Amateur Radio: A National Asset Worth Preserving

Amateur radio is a vital national resource — providing emergency communications, fueling STEM careers, and operating at virtually no cost to the government. Now is the time to protect and strengthen it, not delete it.

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