Alpha Geek visits Columbus State

Mike Meyers, dubbed “Alphageek” by the computer training and repair industry, brought some real-world knowledge to Columbus State this week.

Meyers participated in a forum for high school technology teachers on Feb. 12 hosted by CSCC and Tech Corps; then hung around to visit students in Columbus State’s IT Support Technician (ITST) 143 class the next day. Meyers literally wrote the book the students use in ITST 143.

The next Bill Gates or Steve Jobs will come from a community college, Meyers said. They’re the people who are figuring out how computers work and how to make the next killer application. He had nothing but praise for dedicated instructors like Asst. Prof. Debra Dyer, who arranged the visit.

“(Teachers like her) know that every student who comes through here can get a job,” Meyers said.

Meyers is the author or editor of more than 20 books, including All-in-One A+ Certification Exam Guide and All-in-One Network+ Certification Exam Guide. He also runs Total Seminars LLC, a training company, and is a noted speaker and consultant.

ITST 143 is part of a two-course sequence that allows students to take their CompTIA A+ exam – and includes some community service. The class also runs a nonprofit organization called FreeGeeks at CSCC, which receives donated computer equipment from area businesses, OSU and individuals. The ITST 143 students then repair the equipment; donate them to local non-profits, along with training, as a way to address the IT divide in our community.