Courtesy RepairWare

What happens when a Chromebook in the Nebo School District breaks down? Joe Rogers, Andrew Benson and Carson Lewis come to their classmates’ aid.

The three students, all of whom are IT certified, man RepairWare at the Advanced Learning Center in Salem. The ALC allows students can gain skills, and college credit in some cases, during their class schedule. In A+ Computer Repair (IT1600) students gain entry-level professional skills focusing on computer hardware and software.

Students have the opportunity to test for Industry Certification A+ at the end of the course. Rogers, Benson and Lewis took the next course, PC Pro Repair, and passed the exam for TestOut PC Pro certification.

The students repair district ChromeBooks in their repair shop class, as well as personal computers for anyone who needs an affordable fix. Both classes are taught by Gerald Talbot, who also oversees their repairs.

“I really love working on the unique problems brought in by people in the community,” Rogers said. “Diagnosing and fixing someone’s problem is highly satisfying and a lot of fun.”

Courtesy RepairWare

The RepairWare students are capable of fixing iPads, mobile devices, printers and both Microsoft or Apple devices. They also specialize in computer builds and upgrades, system installation and computer build consulting.

Repairs cost a flat rate of $25, plus the cost of parts. RepairWare offers the public a way to get their devices fixed without breaking the bank and gives students the opportunity to gain experience in the IT field.

Current students receive high school credit for these courses. Next year, college credit will also be available to students taking these classes. But that isn’t all they gain.

“Students gain confidence, self esteem, and skills that they will be able to use for the rest of their lives. They also learn to communicate with customers and resolve their computer issues. Whether they pursue a career in computer hardware or not, they still have the ability to build and repair not just their own computers, but help others as well,” Talbot said. “They also gain real world experience and skills that make them employable. My goal is for them to be able to get an entry level job in the I.T. industry right out of high school.”

RepairWare is located inside the Advanced Learning Center at 161 East 400 North in Salem. They are open every weekday from 8:15 a.m. until 2:20 p.m. People interested in repairs can either walk in or make an appointment ahead of time by contacting Talbot at repairware@nebo.edu.

Courtesy RepairWare