We welcome anyone within Travis County (or surrounding areas) to join the Travis County Amateur Radio Emergency Services team.
Joining is easy, just follow the steps below:
Step 1: Register at South Texas ARES Information Depot
Step 2: Check in to our Weekly Voice Net
Step 3: Sign up to our Groups.io Mailing List (this is our main communication channel)
Step 4 (Optional): Join our Discord Chat.
That’s it.
Next Steps
Start working through all the training tasks at the South Texas ARES Information Depot. Join us at breakfast, and get to know us and our mission. In turn, we will get to know you and what you are interested in, then we can put you in touch with the appropriate team.
We’re glad you’re here. TCARES is built on a foundation of trust, teamwork, and mutual support—especially when emergencies strike and every moment counts. That’s why getting to know one another is an important part of how we operate.
We welcome everyone who wants to serve their community through emergency communications. But just like in any team that responds under pressure, it’s essential that we learn who we can count on—not just for their technical skills, but for their attitude, reliability, and willingness to help when it matters most.
There isn’t a test or a gatekeeping process. It simply takes a little time to build those relationships and see where each person shines. We’re here to support your growth, answer your questions, and give you opportunities to contribute. Over time, as we work and train together, you’ll naturally become a trusted part of the team.
So if you’re new or just getting involved, don’t worry if it feels slow at first. Stick with it. Show up. Ask questions. Offer help. That’s all we ask—and we’re excited to have you with us.
Weekly Breakfast
Many of our members are at the AARC Breakfast every Sunday (8am) at Waterloo Icehouse on Burnet Road). Please feel free to join us! This is a great way to get to know your fellow teammates!