I was first licensed in 1955, as a Novice, with my original Call, WN3DUG, which I eventually was able to keep, after losing it several times, when I couldn't quite make the 13WPM code requirement.
After many years as a Novice, I finally passed the 13WPM and the General written exam.
I've been active in building hundreds of kits, including Heathkits, and have recently built the Elecraft K2 Transceiver (S/N: 1320), with all options.  I like QRP, ATV, PSK-31, SSTV, Rag Chewing & Building.

Background:  My background has been as a Draftsman, designing Prestressed and Precast Concrete buildings and bridges, a Nuclear Structural Draftsman at General Dynamics, Electric Boat Division, Groton, CT, working on Nuclear Submarines (Including the NR-1), Electronic Project Engineer and Software Designer of Central Office Telephony Systems for Stromberg and I.T.& T. Digital Switching Systems and Electronic Field Service Engineering for Digital Machine Controls for  Litton/Landis Grinding Machines used at GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc.
I am presently self-employed as a Residential Designer, designing Custom Homes.