For the first time in eight years, Kentucky has a new ARRL Section Emergency Coordinator (SEC). Jim McDonnell, W2LTB assumed the post April 1, 2007. An amateur radio operator since 1994, McDonnell was drawn to enter the hobby due to his interest in emergency service.

McDonnell's first taste of amateur radio came from his uncle Patrick McDonnell, W2LTB. He would, "sit and watch for hours while he was on the radio making worldwide contacts." When he joined a search and rescue group he decided to take the exams and received the call KE4QCJ. When his uncle became a silent key, McDonnell wanted to honor his legacy. He upgraded and applied for his callsign.

Naturally, McDonnell sees the core mission of ARES as "Emergency Communications." In an era of overloaded and budget-strapped agencies, he sees ARES as an important community resource as a "cost free interoperable emergency communications service." It also provides valuable assistance to non-profit public events allowing more of the proceeds to be devoted to the charities they raise money for. ARES also provides elmering to new hams in community service that extends volunteerism to organizations outside of amateur radio.

He feels that "ARES is a great organization with many wonderful people. Those active members are greatly appreciated and make KY ARES what it is. We all need to work together to help the areas with little or no coverage to get them active and involved."

Like his predecessor, McDonnell has a keen interest in and emphasizes training. In the post 9/11 world, new methods and standards under the National Incident Management System (NIMS) has raised the bar for those serving the public. These standards apply to amateur radio operators serving with emergency management agencies, hospitals, and the like. McDonnell comments that "With Federal mandates in place, becoming compliant is the most important thing," amateurs can do.

To grow on past accomplishments, McDonnell advocates that ARES members take a more involved role in disaster response. " I'd like to see amateurs branch away from the thought that we are 'Only radio operators'. In truth we are a public service. Cross-training is a must in today's society. Amateur radio operators are needed in many areas and still perform EMCOMM duties." He continued, "CERT training is another good avenue for operators. They will teach you the basics of working in a disaster, basic fire suppression etc. All important things to know."

Training is only half of the equation according to McDonnell. "Training and practice are key to any situation. You may have the training but if not practiced through application you may not be able to perform optimally when it's really needed." To gain experience in community emergency communication service, he encourages all amateurs to participate in "Drills, exercises, Field Day, public service events, etc." "Practice your ICS. Practice good radio procedure. Remember your ABCs of emergency communication," he concluded.

His dedication to training does not mean that McDonnell doesn't understand the challenges he and other ARES coordinators face. "The largest problems I can see are training and drive. Operators do not want to be compliant with regulations and quite a few need a fire lit under them. That's not to say that we do not have a great group of people that are trained and highly motivated. Those in Kentucky that are driven have a very impressive record. ARES would not be what it is today without them."

"Local ECs and DECs need to assure that their people are trained. 95% of the training is free and online. Not a lot of personal time is used. The courses are pretty straight-forward. The remainder of additional training can usually be obtained through a working relationship with your local emergency management agency. For a list of training sites online visit," this link, he added.

Inactivity, or no information from coordinators is another challenge McDonnell faces. His goal is to light a fire under those who exist off the radar. "The ARRL does mandate that monthly reports be submitted so we can monitor activities. Monthly reporting is simple, online and only takes a few minutes. It's not difficult to keep track or callouts, activations, events or even meetings. Monthly reports need to be submitted by every League Appointed ARES position from Official Emergency Station all the way up to Section Emergency Coordinators," he relates.

To the influx of new hams who have recently received their tickets, McDonnell shared, "Welcome to Amateur Radio! Give back to the public. Join ARES and enjoy the public service side of amateur radio. Radio is a fun and great hobby. I'd ask that all remember what our primary purpose is."

When asked if he had a favorite aspect of amateur radio, McDonnell spoke favorably of all digital modes. His other interests include gardening, working on his home and USPSA competitions.