60 seconds with RadioTrade's Jack Wieczorek

Jack Wieczorek, radio systems engineer at RadioTrade, talks to Land Mobile about his career in the two-way radio industry

How do you spend most of your time at work?

We design entire systems, create and test networks and vigorously bench test new products. I also prepare radio codeplugs for all types of equipment. An important part of my current role is to troubleshoot any problems our customers have.

What’s the one gadget that you can’t live without?

My laptop – most of my work is done on it and I keep in touch with customers, suppliers and colleagues. I also continually self-train to keep up with industry developments.

Describe your most unforgettable project.

In the Seychelles designing and deploying a DMR network and walking among giant tortoises.

What’s the most unusual thing you’ve seen while working in the radio sector?

I have seen very badly designed and erected electrical installations that are overloaded. I was amazed that buildings weren’t electrocuting people and burning down.

What advice would you give to a young radio engineer who’s starting their first job in the industry?

It’s important to develop your technical ability rather than relying on equipment. Build your knowledge over time, make sure you understand each level, and put it into practice to gain true understanding.

How has your role changed since you started working within the radio industry?

When analogue radio was prolific there was a lot of servicing and programming. Since digital radios were introduced my role has changed dramatically. It is now based more on digital radio networking and IP connectivity.

What do you do in your free time to relax?

I ride a motorbike and spend time in front of my HF rig.

Wieczorek has been involved with electronics his whole life, learning the trade from his father. He developed further by working as an engineer for a UK radio dealer that deployed networks within Britain and abroad. Wieczorek joined RadioTrade in November 2016.