Board of Directors (ARDC)

The ARDC Board of Directors provides governance oversight for Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC), the nonprofit organization that stewards the 44Net address space and program. The Board establishes organizational policy, approves major initiatives, and ensures that ARDC operates in accordance with its nonprofit mission.

Historically, many members of the ARDC Board have also been long‑time participants in 44Net itself. Past and present Board members include individuals who were directly involved in the early development of the network, including Bdale Garbee, Phil Karn, John Gilmore, and KC Claffey. This continuity reflects the Board’s longstanding roots in the amateur radio networking community.

Relationship to 44Net

44Net is a program operated by ARDC. The Board of Directors holds ultimate legal, fiduciary, and administrative responsibility for 44Net, including approval of major policy directions, program priorities, and organizational strategy.

Day-to-day operation of 44Net — including subnet assignment processing, infrastructure management, documentation, and community support — is carried out by ARDC staff and volunteers.

Relationship to ARDC staff

The Board governs ARDC at an organizational level. ARDC staff are responsible for implementing programs, operating services, and carrying out the organization’s work under Board oversight.

Relationship to the technical advisory committee

The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) provides technical advice and recommendations related to 44Net. The TAC serves in an advisory capacity. The Board retains final governance authority for ARDC and its programs.

Further reading

For current information about ARDC governance and Board membership, see the ARDC website:

• About ARDC
• ARDC Staff and Board of Directors