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Tech-Mom Journey: From CERT to Stars, Inspiring the Next Generation with Desiree Baccus

A single mother's path through emergency response and amateur radio demonstrates how hands-on curiosity opens unexpected doors in technology careers

By Ray Novak · April 18, 2024, 12:30 PM UTCDesiree BaccusIcomNasaRay Novak
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Key takeaways

01

Desiree Baccus transitioned from a single mother with IT interest to a leader in amateur radio and tech education through CERT and ham radio.

02

Amateur radio serves as a practical gateway to emergency preparedness, community engagement, and broader STEM careers.

03

Intentional outreach strategies are needed to attract women and youth to amateur radio and technology fields.

In a world where technology and communication are paramount, the story of Desiree Baccus stands as a testament to the power of curiosity and adaptability. As a single mother who delved into the tech world to inspire her children, Baccus' journey from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to the realms of amateur radio and NASA showcases how embracing technology can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career paths. Today, Baccus' tech-mom journey is inspiring and shaping the next generation.

Today, Baccus' tech-mom journey is inspiring and shaping the next generation.

What role can amateur radio play in fostering a passion for technology and communication, especially among women and young people? This is the question at the heart of the latest episode of Radios in Action, where host Ray Novak and guest Desiree Baccus, Director and CMO of Rocky Mountain Ham Radio, explore Baccus' tech-mom journey and its implications for inspiring future tech enthusiasts.

Key discussion points include:

  • Baccus' tech-mom journey from a single mom to a leader in amateur radio and tech education.
  • The importance of amateur radio in emergency preparedness and community engagement.
  • Strategies for promoting technology and amateur radio among women and the younger generation.

Desiree Baccus' journey is a vivid example of how personal passion for technology can evolve into a mission to educate and inspire others. With a background in IT and a deep involvement in amateur radio, Baccus is a beacon for those looking to explore the intersections of technology, communication, and community.

About the author

Ray Novak
Ray NovakSenior Sales Manager

I would say I have the perfect job...meeting wonder people, promoting a great hobby to anyone and everyone who will listen. Learning new technology and sharing my Amateur Radio experiences with all my friends and family. <br/><br/> I enjoy contesting, DXpeditions, Emergency Communication solutions, really anything to do with HF and D-STAR.<br/><br/> Be kind to the youth of today, they write your CCR's of tomorrow!<br/><br/>

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About the Experts

RN
Ray Novak

Product Manager / Amateur Radio Expert at Icom America

Ray Novak (callsign N9JA) is a product manager and amateur radio advocate at Icom America. He hosts the 'Radios in Action' podcast series for Icom, covering topics in amateur radio, emergency communications, and technology outreach. Novak is an active voice in promoting ham radio to new audiences.

DB
Desiree Baccus

Director and CMO

Rocky Mountain Ham Radio

Desiree Baccus (callsign N3DEZ) is a single mother turned technology advocate who entered the tech world through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and amateur radio. She serves as Director and CMO of Rocky Mountain Ham Radio and is active in promoting STEM, amateur radio, and emergency preparedness among women and youth. Her journey has extended to collaboration with NASA-related amateur radio initiatives.