By Stan Horzepa, WA1LOU
Contributing Editor

This week, Surfin’ explores the website of the Young Ladies in ham radio.

It’s no secret that men dominate ham radio; women represent only about 15 percent of the US ham population. This demographic is also evident when attending ham radio events, such as the Dayton Hamvention®: The guys are everywhere, whereas the gals are few and far between. 

These ladies have a great organization to represent them: the Young Ladies Radio League (YLRL). The goal of the YLRL is “to encourage and assist YLs (Young Ladies) throughout the world to enter into the Amateur Radio Service.” Fulfilling that goal often results in lifelong friendships: “...there are the infinite benefits derived from just plain gal-to-gal rag-chewing or eyeball QSOs at YL conventions and the resulting friendships.” On their website, you will discover that the YLRL sponsors scholarships, offers various awards and certificates and holds on-the-air contests, nets and conventions.

I enjoyed reading the history of the YLRL, especially during World War II when “YLRL members often became WIRES -- Women in Radio and Electric Service” to the US Army.

Until next time, keep on surfin’!

Editor note: Stan Horzepa, WA1LOU, seeks the unusual in radio. To contact Stan, send e-mail or add comments to the WA1LOU blog.