Connecting Carlisle, Camp Hill, and the Greater Cumberland County Amateur Radio Community.
Whether you are a seasoned amateur, a newly licensed Technician, or someone just curious about how to get started in the world of Ham Radio, you’ve found the right place. SMRA is an ARRL Special Service Club dedicated to education, community service, and the advancement of the radio arts.
📡 Get Your License & Keep Learning
We are one of the most active teaching clubs in Central Pennsylvania.
- Technician Classes: We hold regular, free licensing courses at the Bosler Memorial Library in Carlisle and the Fredricksen Library in Camp Hill. Check our News and Calendar for upcoming classes.
- Licensing Testing: We hold monthly licensing testing. Join our testing sessions if you’re looking to get your Technician license or upgrade to your General or Extra.
- Meet the Mentors (MTM): Getting your license is just the beginning. Our Meet the Mentors sessions provide hands-on demonstrations and presentations to help you get on the air, build antennas, and master your gear.
- New Hams: As a teaching and testing club new hams are always interacting with our club in some way. Visit our New Hams page for information perfect for new (or returning) amateurs!
🛡️ ARES & Emergency Communications
Amateur radio is a vital link when all else fails. Many of our members are active in ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service), supporting local events like bike races and community festivals, and staying prepared to provide emergency communications for Cumberland County when called upon.
📶 Our Repeaters & Nets
We maintain local infrastructure to keep the community connected.
- VHF/UHF Repeaters: We operate wide-coverage repeaters in the area (check our Nets page for frequencies and tones).
- Weekly Nets: Join us for our regular on-air gatherings to test your equipment and catch up with local hams.
🛠️ Build Projects & Field Day
From crimping coax to building antennas, we love to build. We also host ARRL Field Day every June—a 24-hour marathon of radio operation.
🛠️ Volunteer with the Club
Want to get involved with building and growing the club? We are always looking for volunteers to help with our community events and education programs. Learn how to volunteer here!
Ready to join the fun?
- Get Involved in SMRA — Learn more about what we have to offer and see where you can get involved! We’re always looking for enthusiastic members who want to learn or bring their own expertise to the club. Whether you are a brand new Technician or a seasoned Extra, there is a place for you here.
- Read the Latest Club News & Updates – Stay current with our weekly blog.
- Join SMRA or Renew Your Dues – Become an official member and support our local repeaters and programs.
- View Our Event Calendar – See when our next monthly meeting or library class is happening.
- Connect with our Social Media – Get updates on events and club meetings going on.