One of the best ways to get some real hands on experience in electronics, especially as a beginner, is to build electronic kits.  Even the seasoned veteran ham can enjoy even the more complex kits.  In amateur radio circles, the kit building guru is Joe Eisenberg, K0NEB.  Joe spends his free time, in addition to operating his favorite contests and attending hamfests, testing kits, making recommendations, and teaching others how to be successful in kit building. Joe is Eric, 4Z1UG’s, QSO today.