Ham Radio is Alive and Well: Remote Access, Youth Programs, and FT8 in the Cloud

In 2025, ham radio is thriving like never before, fueled by innovation, community, and a new generation of operators. With over 3 million licensed amateur radio operators worldwide, the hobby continues to grow, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology. Digital modes like FT8 and FT4 in the cloud, remote ham radio access, and youth engagement programs are breaking barriers, making amateur radio more accessible than ever. From emergency preparedness to global DXing, ham radio is alive, relevant, and expanding across demographics. But what’s really driving this resurgence? Let’s explore why amateur radio’s future has never looked brighter.

It begins with youth, but it grows with innovation.

Evidence of a Thriving Hobby

• Large and Growing Community: There are over 3 million amateur radio operators worldwide, including more than 700,000 licensed ham radio operators in the United States. This vibrant base proves that amateur radio growth is real.

• Adaptation to Technology: Ham radio has embraced digital innovations such as FT8, FT4, and Remote operations, attracting a new generation of hobbyists.

• Popularity Among New Demographics: More youth and women are getting licensed than ever before, valuing ham radio for both its educational benefits and disaster preparedness.

• Amateur Radio Events and Competitions: Contests like the North Carolina QSO Party and international DX competitions show strong participation from hams of all ages.

• Strong Community Support: From local ham radio clubs and leagues to worldwide groups, operators benefit from mentorship, community, and shared knowledge.

Here’s a great example of how ham radio is growing worldwide. In this clip, three operators in Turkey are making DX contacts from a car—a thrilling experience for any amateur radio enthusiast. What’s remarkable is that all three began their journey through the Remote Ham Radio Youth Program, which gave them access to professional-grade stations remotely. That early experience sparked their passion for the hobby, and now they’re fully pursuing it with excitement and skill. Watch this reel and see the joy and authenticity of their QSOs—it’s a true testament to the power of youth engagement in ham radio!

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Check out Merzuke TA7YLY, a rising star in the Remote Ham Radio Youth Program. Operating from Turkey, she remotely connects into stations in Croatia and Serbia, making contacts across borders with ease. Through these remote operations, Merzuke has become one of the most recognized YLs (Young Ladies) in amateur radio, building a strong following on social media and inspiring countless others to explore the hobby. These are the next-generation ham radio operators, and they’re redefining what it means to be on the air. Think you know what ham radio looks like today? Think again—it’s exciting, global, and full of possibilities!

Why Ham Radio Continues to Thrive

• Educational Value: Studying for and earning an amateur radio license builds valuable technical and communication skills.

• Recreational Communication: From casual QSOs to DXing and contests, ham radio is a hobby that offers endless opportunities for connection.

• Disaster Preparedness: Ham radio shines during natural disasters and crises when traditional systems fail. The tradition of passing traffic remains a cornerstone of emergency communication.

• Community and Connection: Amateur radio continues to connect people across distances and generations.

More people are getting involved in ham radio for emergency communication because it provides a reliable way to connect when traditional systems fail. From natural disasters to power outages, amateur radio operators play a vital role in passing traffic, relaying messages, and supporting communities in crisis. The hobby not only teaches critical technical skills but also fosters a strong sense of responsibility and service—making it increasingly appealing to those who want to combine a passion for technology with real-world impact.

Remote Access: Opening Doors to Everyone

One of the most exciting revolutions in the hobby is ham radio remote access. Platforms like RemoteHamRadio (RHR) allow operators to control world-class stations from anywhere in the world. HOA restrictions, small apartments, or lack of antenna space are no longer barriers.

RHR even offers FT8 and FT4 in the cloud, allowing operators to log in and make QSOs instantly—no extra software or setup required.

👉 “Work the World. No Towers Required

Youth Engagement: Inspiring the Next Generation

The Remote Ham Radio Youth Program is proving how ham radio for kids is shaping the future of the hobby. By giving young operators free access to professional-grade remote stations, RHR has helped youth around the world go QRV (on the air).

Some are even working DX and entering contests, competing at the same level as experienced operators. The collaboration between kids and seasoned hams is keeping the spirit of amateur radio alive.

The Bottom Line

Yes, ham radio is alive and well—evidenced by a large and growing community, strong youth programs, thriving contests, and cutting-edge remote ham radio technology. The mix of innovation and tradition ensures that amateur radio will remain a vital, exciting hobby for decades to come.

👉 Whether you’re curious about emergency communication, FT8 in the cloud, or global DXing, there has never been a better time to get involved. Ham Radio isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving.

🎙️ Get on the Air for FREE! If you’re 21 or younger, the Remote Ham Radio Youth Program gives you access to world-class stations so you can start operating today—no equipment or license required.

👉 “Your first step to becoming a global ham radio operator starts here—experience QSOs, DXing, and digital modes, all from the comfort of your home!”

👉 “Ham Radio: A Hobby Rooted in Tradition, Growing into the Future.