WI9SM · Established 1972 · ARRL Affiliated
South Milwaukee Amateur Radio Club
An ARRL-affiliated ham radio club serving southeastern Milwaukee County. Whether you’re a licensed operator, studying for your first ticket, or just curious about the hobby — you’re welcome here.
All Inclusive & Inviting
Something for Every Amateur Radio Operator
01
Learning
Young or old, licensed or not — we love sharing what we know and helping newcomers get on the air.
02
Inviting
A friendly, welcoming club where it’s easy to make friends and find people who share the hobby.
03
Community
Our members come from all walks of life and give their time to support the local community.
04
Activities
From monthly meetings and auctions to our club-sponsored swapfest, there’s always something on.
A Little About Us
The South Milwaukee Amateur Radio Club is an ARRL general-purpose affiliated club made up of hams from every interest group in the hobby. We have both licensed and unlicensed members, and new members are always welcome — whether you’re already a ham or just getting started. South Milwaukee sits on the southern edge of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and our members come from right across the southeastern part of the county.
The South Milwaukee Amateur Radio Club (SMARC) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, non-profit service organization — serving the needs of southeastern Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, and furthering the interests of amateur radio.
Our History
Our club started in 1972, meeting in a mobile office trailer on the City Garage grounds. As the club grew, we moved to the Senior Citizens Center, and continued growth eventually led us to seek out a larger home. We landed in the nearby city of Oak Creek, where we still meet today — all meetings, auctions, and events are held at the same site.
The club sought and obtained ARRL affiliation early on, holding 100% affiliation status for many years — meaning every member was also an ARRL member. Most of our members are ARRL members to this day, and we’ve proudly received our 25-year affiliation certificate from the ARRL.
What We Do
Amateur radio operators help their communities in good times and bad — through community events, disaster response, and public service. Here’s what being part of SMARC looks like.
Monthly Meetings
We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at the Oak Creek American Legion Post 434. Meetings usually start at 7:00 PM local time, and visitors are always welcome — come along and say hello before you decide to join.
Learning & Licensing
All amateur radio operators in the U.S. must be FCC-licensed. We help newcomers understand the license classes and get on the air — and we love promoting the hobby to the next generation of operators.
Public Service
Hams provide a vital communication backbone when it’s needed most. Our members support community events and stand ready to assist during emergencies and disaster response.
Auctions & Swapfest
Our club sponsors two auctions and one swapfest each year — a great way to buy, sell, trade gear, and connect with the wider amateur radio community.
Club Events
Mark your calendar — here’s what SMARC runs each year. All events are held at the American Legion Post 434, 9327 S Shepard Ave, Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
WI9SM Swapfest 2027
WI9SM Swapfest 2027 Hosted by the South Milwaukee Amateur Radio Club Join fellow amateur radio
2025 SMARC Fall Auction
AUCTION WEDNESDAY, October 1st American Legion Post 434 9327 S Sheppard Ave Oak Creek WI
MRC 91 Friendly Fest 2024 CANCELED – LOST VENUE
THE MRC91 Friendly Fest has been canceled, so please understand that the Elks Club was
WI9SM Swapfest 2027
Join fellow amateur radio operators, electronics enthusiasts, collectors, and hobbyists for the WI9SM Swapfest 2027. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, trade, or simply connect with others in the amateur radio community, this is the event to be at.
Board of Directors
KC9WQJ
Karen Burris
President
KC9PQD
Ron Clayton
Vice President
KC9FUU
James Vitrano
Secretary
WB9ODQ
Paul Gruettner
Treasurer
New to Amateur Radio?
Every amateur radio operator in the U.S. must hold a license issued by the FCC. It’s more approachable than most people expect — there are three license classes, and the entry-level Technician class opens the door to a huge range of the hobby. If you’re thinking about getting your ticket, or you’ve just passed and want people to operate with, we’d love to help you along the way.
Come Join Us
The best way to get to know SMARC is to come to a meeting. We gather the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 PM at the Oak Creek American Legion Post 434 — no need to be licensed, and no need to be a member to visit. Bring your questions and your curiosity.
Get in Touch
Questions about the club, licensing, or an upcoming event? Reach out — we’re happy to hear from you.