Communication Trailer

Executive Summary

The Coffeyville Amateur Radio Club’s Communication Trailer is a mobile hub built to help in emergencies, connect with the community, and support hands-on learning. It’s designed to travel wherever it’s needed across Southeast Kansas—whether that’s to assist first responders, show students how radios work, or provide live demonstrations at public events.

Inside the trailer are two workstations, each with a team of two volunteers: one handles voice communication over radio, and the other manages digital messages, maps, and logs. This teamwork approach allows the volunteers to get more done quickly and efficiently. One station focuses on emergency support, while the other is geared toward demonstrations and education with connections to a large TV and speaker system outside.

The trailer has several different radios that allow it to talk locally or across the world, a scanner to listen to police, fire and EMS radios and a special wireless system that can send messages and video even without internet access. Computers with GPS help with maps and digital tools, and the trailer's audio system allows operators to hear exactly what they need—while also letting the public listen in during events.

The trailer runs on a strong battery system that works even off-grid and can be powered by a regular outlet or generator. Each workstation has its own power supply to keep everything running smoothly.

On the outside, the trailer includes antennas that go up quickly, a big screen for showing live activity, and a speaker system so others can hear what’s happening. There’s also a custom hookup panel to connect extra equipment.

To keep operators comfortable during long shifts, the trailer includes air conditioning, heat, a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and fast phone chargers.

Most importantly, the trailer is more than just equipment—it’s a way to serve the community, teach new skills, and show how amateur radio is a powerful, modern tool for communication when it matters most.