Howard Lester wrote:

As far as I can imagine, there's no real
operating skill required for automation.

I have to disagree with this.

Perhaps the easiest example that fits into this thread is the
"automation" of a keyer versus a straight key. Using a keyer is much
different than using a straight key and requires operating skill.

Perhaps you object that a keyer isn't "automation". Perhaps not, if you
meant the term to mean "using a computer". But I submit that operating
skill is required to use those tools, too. When I switched from a paper
dupe sheet to a logging program, I had to develop a new skill.

Personally, I happen to be a purist; I'll use a logging program but I'm
not interested in using computer-generated CW or computer-aided QSOs.
But the important words are "I'm not interested." Just like many other
aspects of our hobby, my lack of interest does not imply that something
is inherently good or bad. It's just different, and if someone else IS
interested that's great.

Even though I have no desire to use or develop computer aids to
contesting, I think that people who do should be encouraged and that
their skills should be recognized. An important aspect of ham radio is
pushing the state of the art, and developing/using/testing this kind of
facility is as much a part of that as developing new electronic
circuits. When we've lost the ability to innovate, and to encourage
innovation, we've lost an important basis of the whole hobby.

73, Steve KB9X