In 2025, the Woodruff Middle School STEM Club in Upper Deerfield Township, New Jersey, has thrived through a dynamic collaboration with the Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club (GCARC, callsign W2MMD). This partnership introduces middle school students to the exciting world of amateur radio, blending hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math with real-world applications like communication and experimentation.

The club’s activities kicked off with a strong focus on high-altitude balloon launches. Students built and launched weather balloons equipped with trackers, including WSPR (Weak Signal Propagation Reporter) radios for global signal propagation and APRS for position reporting. These projects taught soldering, antenna construction, payload design, and data tracking—culminating in successful launches that reached impressive heights and even inspired a recent weather balloon project in December.

Other highlights included participation in the ARRL School Club Roundup, where students operated HF and VHF stations to make contacts worldwide, and a summer STEM camp featuring antenna building (like 20-meter dipoles and tape measure Yagis), programming handheld radios (TidRadio H3), and experimenting with electronic kits. GCARC volunteers provided mentorship at the club’s clubhouse on the Gloucester County 4-H Fairgrounds, sharing expertise in emergency communications, digital modes, and more.

The program has sparked lasting interest: students advocated to their school board for continuation, many pursued ham radio licenses, and plans are underway for 2026 projects like building simple receivers and transmitter hunts. This initiative not only builds technical skills but also fosters curiosity, teamwork, and a passion for STEM—proving ham radio remains a powerful tool for inspiring the next generation.