Ray was first licensed in 1989 as KB5KCL while living in Starkville, MS during his employment at MFJ Enterprises, Inc.  Ray obtained the callsign KC7JPA when he upgraded to advanced in 1999, and finally N9JA in 2003.  Ray is shown with his XYL Cindy, NN9JA.  Cindy was first licensed in 2012 passing her technician exam at the 2012 Dayton Hamvention, General at the SeaPac Hamfest in June 2012, and her Extra at Huntsville in August 2012.

As an industry leader, Ray’s focus has been on promoting the hobby and Icom products.  He has found time to participate in a Dxpedition to Bhutan with Dr. Glenn Johnson, W0GJ, as well as several IOTA’s with the Tennessee Valley DX Association and the Magnolia DX Association.

He is a member of the Maple Valley Amateur Radio Club, MicroHams Amateur Radio Club, Texas Intertie Team, and a Lifetime member of the ARRL. 

While there are many facets to Amateur Radio, Ray’s passion is contesting.  He has participated in various contests as a guest op including the 2008 ARRL DX Phone at K3LR, various Sweep Stakes efforts, including one from W1AW (2004) as well as several major field day events with W4IY (1998 8A), W3AO (2011 23A), N1FD (1999 28A) and N7OS (2004 4A).  Ray looks forward to joining N6MZ at C82DX again after operating together in SS at W1AW and FD from N7OS.
 
As the Division Manager for Icom America, Inc, Ray is responsible for Amateur Radio Sales in the US and oversees efforts for Amateur sales in Central and South America.  Ray’s career has covered 19 years with Icom America, Inc and previously 5 years with MFJ Enterprises, Inc.