The ham radio mentor who inspired the term “Elmer” — Elmer P. “Bud” Frohardt Jr, W9DY (ex-W9GFF), of Madison, Wisconsin — died on March 22. He was 93. A friend and co-worker of the late Rod Newkirk, W9BRD (later VA3ZBB), who edited QST’s “How’s DX?” column, Frohardt was the “Elmer” that Newkirk had in mind when he used the name in his March 1971 column, referring to someone who helped to mentor new Amateur Radio licensees and calling them “the unsung fathers of Amateur Radio.”
Source arrl.org
Elmers and will prove invaluable as you get started in the hobby. Interestingly enough there is a new breed of Elmers on YouTube and although I have learned a lot from these experts on YouTube it cannot replace the one-on-one interaction and camaraderie you will gain by joining your local ham radio club.
Jim is a great example of a YouTube Emler that helped me get started:
W6LG / Jim – Click here for Jim’s Channel
Elmers on YouTube
KJ4YZI / Eric – Click here for Eric’s Channel
K6UDA / Bob – Click here for Bob’s Channel
KC5HWB / Jason – Click here for Jason’s Channel
You will find additional YouTube videos though-out my site on specific subjects. These Hams put alot of time and energy into their channels, give them a Like and subscribe to help support their efforts.