After fifteen years of experience servicing and repairing computers in big box stores, Jason Blais, a Licensed Computer/Network Technician and a Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator, decided to become an entrepreneur and opened Atlas Technologies in January 2014. At his previous job, to breathe healthy competition amongst his peers, after each big sale he would get down on one knee, raise his hands in the air and pretend to hold up the roof. He was coined "Atlas" because he carried them on his shoulders like the famous Greek titan. When finally deciding to go out on his own, "Atlas" had to be part of his business name. He originally opened at a location in the Murphy Road Plaza. In 2016, he moved to the current location at 1030 Confederation Street in Sarnia.
Blais is very passionate about technology, and it shows. His high energy is immediately apparent as he explains the many risks associated with computer ownership and internet usage. His business, Atlas Technologies, helps people solve problems that computer owners even a few short years ago did not face. In this day and age, with so many viruses circulating, he does his best to explain the potential threats and put his customers' minds at ease.
Atlas Technologies offers a wide range of personalized computer repair services. "We perform PC and laptop repairs, upgrades, tune-ups and maintenance. We also offer data backups and recoveries." He offers two- to three-day turnaround for most repairs. He understands how important it is for his customers to have their computers back in perfect working order. "Sometimes a repair is as simple as a keyboard replacement and other times it's a hard drive installation, a complete overhaul or a custom-built computer." Atlas Technologies also sells new and refurbished computers. "New computers are ordered to specifications, while refurbished computers are always available in the shop." Blais also offers the "Atlas Guarantee," a one-year warranty with every computer, both new and refurbished, that covers all parts, labour, as well as most minor software issues.
Blais has been creative in his marketing of Atlas Technologies. "Every three or four months I rent a spot at Lambton mall and run my 'Atlas Tech Event' which includes a quick virus removal, tune up and cleaning for a special price." Atlas Remote is another service that he created to better serve his customers. "Atlas Technologies will repair your computer problems remotely so you don't have to leave the comfort of your home."
Blais has a vision to open a second shop in Bright's Grove which will service tablets, phones and consoles in the future. "We don't have one in Sarnia and it's definitely something that is needed. I love being my own boss and growing my business in new directions. I'm so thankful for my loyal customers that have trust and faith in me and who have recommended me to family and friends. When a customer walks out my door, I want them happy, so I do everything I can to make that happen."
When Bill Lamarche was the sporting goods and seasonal manager at a large retailer in London, he began dreaming about opening his own business. In 1989, he and his wife Alice purchased Sarnia Home Hardware. In 2001, they moved to their current location, 120 Russell Street, and since then the business
All it took was one shot and Steve Arseneault was hooked. He instantly expanded from being an avid photographer to being a birder. Photography is something I have been doing for a long time, but I am new to the birding thing. I would take photos while on vacation or when my son was playing
Like many twins, Mel Tiggelaar and Michelle Towner can finish each other's sentences. But if you think just because they are twins they look and do everything alike, you'd be dead wrong. I am four minutes older so I am the bossy one, Mel jokes. We have always been close, but the truth i
Gary Burdett started Burdett Electric Ltd. in 1973 and has installed lighting fixtures in countless homes and businesses throughout Lambton County. However, the builders that he worked for found that there were never enough lighting options available locally. Burdett saw this opening and started Twi
The Inn of the Good Shepherd was founded in 1981 by a group from St. John’s Anglican Church on Devine Street, in Sarnia’s south end, who became concerned with the growing needs of the disadvantaged in the area. “When The Inn start...
What started out as simply a love and concern for the environment has turned into a business for Stacey Kindel. Stacey, a full-time employee at Lambton-Kent Midwife Services, originally started making skincare products for herself and friends. Her business, Come Clean, grew from there. When I sta
As a customer, Dan Little liked the clothing store One Tooth so much that when he heard it was being put up for sale, he bought it. "I took it over in August of 2021," Dan says. "My wife and I were customers of the store and we really liked it. We knew the previous owners so when we found out
Jess Mills was a member of the Bluewater Blades, a competitive synchronized skating team, for ten years, but when she headed off to the University of Guelph, Mills hung up her skates and opted for a gym membership. "At my gym cons...