W3GMS Joseph H. 'Joe' Fell III East Fallowfield, PA QCWA # 25113 Chapter 31

I passed my Novice examination and became WN3GMS in 1966 at the age of 14. My first real transmitter was a Heathkit DX-60A and a Heath GR-64 receiver. I had 2 crystals as a Novice, one for 3.724 and the other for 3.739. It was a blast operating CW as a Novice. I never thought when I was learning CW that I would like it, but it turned out that I enjoy the mode very much.

Shortly after getting my Novice license, I met the best mentor a Ham could have. His name was Harry I. Davis and his call was W3FDY (SK). Harry taught me how to design circuits and how to build things properly. His guidance ultimately led me to choose to become an Electrical Engineer. My working career started in 1973 when I started to work in the Circuits and Packaging Lab for Burroughs Corporation. Later Burroughs became Unisys and I retired as an Engineering Group Manager within the New Product Development Group in December 2008 after a fantastic 36 year career. During that time, I also started an non competing business of my own. I was President and Founder of Control Products Unlimited Incorporated which designed and built specialized battery charging equipment. My products were used commercially as well as with Military and Government agencies.

My main interest in Amateur Radio has always been in designing, building and restoring vintage rigs. Currently I am building a working Amateur Radio Wireless Museum where over 300 pieces of gear that will be operational. When on the air, I operate all modes, but enjoy CW and Vintage AM the most. I still maintain a repeater that I designed and built back in 1976 on 146.985, PL 100 Hz. Although currently down for maintenance, I am also the owner of 52.99, 223.94 and the 442.00 repeaters. All my repeaters are located in Parkesburg, PA. at the former radio site of my mentor Harry, W3FDY (SK).

I have been a life member of the ARRL since age 15 as well as being a life member of the Antique Wireless Association. I also am a member of the Society of Wireless Pioneers, the QCWA and the James Millen Society.

My formal Electrical Engineering education came from Penn State University. I served 6 years in the Delaware Army National Guard. During my active duty time, Basic Training was in FT Jackson, South Carolina. I served as a CW instructor during my tenure at FT Gordon, Georgia. When my military obligation was completed, I had achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant.

February 16, 2015