There is a ton of good information here regarding both Winlink and VARA. This is a highly recommended video for those who are unfamiliar with Winlink or possibly those who haven't used it in a while. The value of Winlink for a variety of different reasons, can't be over stated. I encourage everyone to have it on your computer and learn and practice using it - even if you think you never will use it.
The future of HAM radio EmComm is digital. Winlink is only one digital mode and there are many others. Voice is useful to a point but digital modes are essential when there is a need to maintain 24/7 communications. This is especially true when bridging time zones. Aside from use in a formal EmComm setting, just knowing how to use Winlink is valuable when you have a need to communicate with family or friends at a distance when other modes of communications are unavailable.
The future of HAM radio EmComm is digital. Winlink is only one digital mode and there are many others. Voice is useful to a point but digital modes are essential when there is a need to maintain 24/7 communications. This is especially true when bridging time zones. Aside from use in a formal EmComm setting, just knowing how to use Winlink is valuable when you have a need to communicate with family or friends at a distance when other modes of communications are unavailable.