If your local ARES® group is struggling with traction, participation, or relevance, it may be time for a reset. In the startup world, Eric Ries popularized the idea of the “pivot”—a deliberate change in direction to better meet real-world needs. That same concept applies to amateur radio emergency communications. In Minnesota, we executed a near 100% do-over of how we approach ARES. The results have been measurable: increased engagement, stronger agency relationships, and a growing operational footprint. Here’s what worked:

Listen First—A Lot More Than You Talk

ARES groups often lead with capabilities—especially tools like Winlink. But many served agencies already use platforms such as WebEOC or other incident management systems. We found success by flipping the script: listen 95% of the time. Ask what problems agencies are trying to solve. If they already have a system, understand where the gaps are before proposing solutions.

Build a Visible, Trusted, Brand Through Events

Rather than waiting for disasters, we embedded ARES into community events—running races, cycling events, and ski races. Our role evolved into route safety and incident reporting:

• Reporting injuries and hazards
• Requesting SAG vehicles or EMS response

We backed that up with CERT training and basic first aid, positioning ourselves as a backup medical resource. Event medical directors and EMS leaders quickly became key allies. Consistent performance built trust—and that trust opened doors.

Solve Real Problems—Not “Ham Radio Problems”

Agencies don’t need “more radio,” they need better information. We developed a Field Observer program to provide real-time situational awareness where it didn’t exist. Law enforcement has this capability; EMS and emergency management often do not. At our region’s largest event—the marathon—the transformation has been striking:

• The amateur radio desk started in the corner of the Race Operations Center
• It evolved into the Medical Command table
• Today, it sits at the center of the room, with growing participation from EMS and law enforcement leadership

Why? Because we deliver live, actionable data. Our dashboards and databases—built on radio operator reports —became the centerpiece.

“Duties as Assigned” Is the Doorway In

One of the fastest ways to gain relevance is simple: help wherever needed. ARES volunteers have supported:

• First aid and medical communications
• Public address system setup and repair
• General IT troubleshooting
• Water stops and course operations
• Cleanup and logistics

By being consistently useful, volunteers naturally move into leadership roles. And as race directors talk, opportunities multiply. Our team was recently referred to support ten additional events.

Attitude Matters: Be the Best Volunteers on Scene

ARES volunteers should be known for one thing above all: professionalism with a positive attitude. Cheerful, helpful, and adaptable volunteers stand out. Agencies remember that—and invite them back.

Master the Technology That Actually Matters

Modern emergency support requires more than RF skills. ARES members should be comfortable with:

• Public address systems
• Wi-Fi and networking
• Cybersecurity and data protection
• Reliable internet deployment

Leave outdated systems behind. Bring secure, modern tools. Increasingly, data dashboards and AI-enabled tools are becoming part of the operational picture.

Embed with Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (VOADs)

Most disaster response is powered by volunteers. ARES should be part of that ecosystem. Join National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster groups. ARRL is a NVOAD member. Show up. Do the work—especially the unglamorous work. That’s how trust is built.

Stay in Your Lane—Unless Asked

Avoid offering unsolicited comments on government radio systems or concerns about cellular or landline failures. Public safety agencies have their own experts. Instead, focus on what you can uniquely provide—and be ready to support when asked.

Understand the Shift Toward IT in Incident Communications

Many Communications Unit Leaders (COMLs) come from traditional radio backgrounds. Increasingly, however, incident communications leadership includes IT-focused roles such as the ICT-BD (Information and Communications Technology Branch Director).

ARES volunteers who understand modern networking, redundant (“active-active”) systems, satellite internet (e.g., Starlink), and power systems and infrastructure will be far more relevant in today’s environment.

Know the Rules—and Embrace the Future

Revisit FCC Part 97 regularly. Amateur radio is defined by advancing the radio art—not preserving it as a historical reenactment. Today, that includes integration with modern infrastructure, not isolation from it.

Build Trust Through Professional Standards

Emergency managers often carry hard-boiled skepticism about volunteers. Many have seen the consequences of poor vetting in past disasters. ARES groups should, as requested:

• Complete background checks
• Take child protection training where applicable
• Meet professional expectations without hesitation
• Follow event/agency registration procedures

Trust is not assumed—it’s earned.

And Finally… The “Swear Jar”

We instituted a simple rule: Every time someone says, “That’s not ham radio,” they put $5 in the jar. It’s a humorous reminder that rigidity kills growth. Service—not tradition for its own sake—is what keeps ARES relevant.

A Complete Reset—And Real Results

In Minnesota, we executed a full reset of how ARES operates. The outcome: stronger partnerships with EMS, law enforcement, and event leadership; expanded roles in large-scale operations; increased volunteer engagement; and growing demand for ARES support.

ARES remains vital—but only if it evolves. Sometimes, the best path forward is a do-over. —Erik Westgard, NY9D, ARES^® Assistant Section Emergency Coordinator – Events, ARRL Minnesota Section