Richard Green - Tech 4 Success
When it's time for a new computer, how much do you think about what happens to your old one? Prior to Richard Green starting up his operation in 2018, downtown Augusta did not have a dedicated location that specialized in electronics recycling or the sale of computer components for older computers that are still in use. Richard set up shop to fulfill both of those needs for the community. “As my idea evolved,” he said, “I also saw a great training opportunity for people trying to learn about computers and other electronics.” Tech 4 Success was born!
Richard Green in front of the Tech 4 Success storefront on Broad Street in downtown Augusta.
Tech 4 Success is based on the need for better and more diversified technology training in the Augusta area. Richard realized that the training would need to be unique and have an active purpose, as well as incorporating multiple long-term goals for the community. Richard decided to focus on electronics recycling as a way to provide hands-on training through the disassembly of numerous forms of electronics, as a reverse-learning effort. This process allows employees to become accustomed to the different components of a variety of electronics. In time, the employees learn how the items are assembled to build computers.
The Broad Street storefront handles electronics recycling, including the secure removal of sensitive data. “Globally, electronic waste has become the fastest growing waste stream with the highest level of recoverable materials, yet the least recycled,” says Richard. “Augusta did not have a dedicated facility that specializes in the handling of electronic waste, and with the city’s significant projected growth, a company like mine was needed. As Augusta grows into the cyber security capital, there also needs to be a focus on the proper disposal of electronics because of the data that they store. Tech 4 Success not only ensures that all recycled electronics are sent to facilities that will turn them back into raw materials; we also make sure that no sensitive information leaves our facility.” All data on any storage media is erased to Department of Defense data erasure standards, and a certificate of erasure will be provided for all storage media upon request.
Richard made his way to theClubhou.se a couple of years ago while laying the groundwork for Tech 4 Success, and since that time he has collaborated with a number of members here. “I have met so many great people at theClubhou.se that have helped me get my business off the ground,” shared Richard. Continuing, “I work with some of the other businesses on projects that mutually enhance our capabilities. theClubhou.se has built a community that is willing to work with one another and share resources. The networking events they host bring together people from all across Augusta and have helped to expand my company's reach.” Richard shared that what appeals to him about entrepreneurship is the ability to explore new things he never thought possible, stating, “Since starting my company, I’ve experienced situations and conversations that have impacted the way I view many other things in life. What we may think is the cause of a problem that we are trying to fix may not even be remotely close to the reality. To fix a problem you must take a much wider view of the entire situation and its component parts if you ever plan to find a viable solution. Although technology is widely available there are parts of the population that are still using outdated tech to do modern task. In the process of technology making things simple for many it has also made it challenging for the elderly who are more likely to be left behind. The access to good affordable internet is not as widespread as it may seem.”
“What we may think is the cause of a problem that we are trying to fix may not even be remotely close to the reality. To fix a problem you must take a much wider view of the entire situation and its component parts if you ever plan to find a viable solution.”
Looking back over last year, Richard says the best advice he has been given is to stick to his core business. “Often an entrepreneur will try to take on more than they should because they see the potential for profitability,” he says. “Keep in mind you can only do one thing really well and many things marginally well. The more things you take on, the thinner your resources become and the more risk you have at failing.” Though Tech 4 Success is multifaceted, each component plays a critical role in achieving the mission of the company. Richard explained that his company has five unique sections that all need their own time and attention, “Every day is different, you never know what’s going to come through the door.” He explained, “Some days we have a lot of repairs, other days we receive a lot of recycling and then there are days when we get a lot of data destruction work or requests for network installations.” Flexibility is built into the fabric of Tech 4 Success. “Right now my company is fine tuning our systems and processes as we all adjust to a new normal brought on by this pandemic. We are going to continue to work where the demand is and will shift our focus as demands shift.”
In addition to being a valued member at theClubhou.se, Tech 4 Success also recently established an official partnership with theClubhou.se to assist with electronics recycling in the Augusta area. Beginning immediately, items may be dropped off at theClubhou.se, at Tech 4 Success, or you can arrange to have a bulk pick-up by contacting heythere@theclubhou.se. Over the next several months, we hope to have donation stations available all across the area. Once items are refurbished, they are made available to the public for individuals, small businesses just getting started, and non-profits for purchase.
