Speaking to Royalty through your Truck’s Radio – Eric Austin – EE Extraordinaire
I had the opportunity to sit down with Eric Austin, an Electrical Engineer with Skyworks Solutions, Inc this past week. He is an avid photographer, cyclist, musician  and HAM Radio enthusiast. We had a great time, and I would love to take a minute or so to tell you a little more about him. This is the story behind Eric’s Resume.
Eric grew up in Swampscott, MA – 25 minutes or so north of Boston. As a boy scout he became fascinated with Ham Radios, went on to get licensed, and has been using them ever since. A passion for radio, coupled with his father’s encouragement, led him to attend Wentworth Institute of Technology where he received his EE degree.
He has worked for a few Tech companies in the Boston area over that past several years, notably spending 6 years as a test engineer at MIT Lincoln Labs. During this time he pursued additional studies at Tufts University, focusing on RF and Microwave applications.
I was enamored by everything Eric was telling me about Ham Radios. Whereas a CB Radio is more local, Ham Radios have the ability to communicate globally. Depending on atmospheric conditions, geographic location, antenna configuration and operator skill, one can speak around the world. Eric has been able to speak with others in Australia, and even had a conversation with members of the Royal Family in Jordan. With a Ham radio on his bicycle, one in his truck, and his set-up at home – Eric is always able to see who is on the air and chat with them.
I was amazed to hear about how often various frequencies and operators use Morse code to communicate. Many can approach 40 words a minute and are able to have flowing conversations. He has been in several
competitions locally and finished 5th or so last year in the ARRL Field Day Competition.
Be sure to check out Eric’s myspace pages for music (he plays the drums in two bands) and to also check out some of his photography.
Feel free to contact Liam Morris if you are interested in being featured in one of these short bios. Contact Information is in the authors section of the blog.
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