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Nerds Wanted: Internships Are Launching Real Tech Careers At Nerds to Go in Charlotte

Updated: Jul 7


By Sam Ettaro for Put Tools in Schools


When most students hear “tech career,” they picture Silicon Valley, four-year computer science degrees, and a mountain of student debt. But thanks to small businesses like NerdsToGo in Charlotte, NC, there’s a growing realization that the path to a fulfilling, high-paying tech job can look very different — and more accessible — than the traditional college route.


Recently, Put Tools in Schools sat down with Paul Blanchard, owner of NerdsToGo Charlotte, who shared how his company is bridging the gap between curious students and real-world tech careers.


Cybersecurity, Networking, and the Business of “Nerding Out”

Blanchard describes his business with humor and heart: “We keep the bad guys out of networks,” he says, referencing the cybersecurity and data protection services his team provides for small businesses. NerdsToGo doesn’t just fix computers—they build networks, recover data, set up secure Wi-Fi systems, and design custom tech solutions for both businesses and homes.


While tech support might sound like something reserved for IT departments or software engineers, the work at NerdsToGo is hands-on and practical — and it’s precisely the kind of experience that high school and community college students can access early in their careers.


Internships That Actually Prepare You

One of the most impressive parts of Blanchard’s business model is his commitment to providing internship and entry-level training experiences. High school and community college students are invited to shadow and work alongside his team — from the “senior nerd” to the “hardware nerd.”


These aren’t theoretical learning sessions. Students physically install servers, configure networks, run cables, and solve real client problems — giving them a practical edge when applying for jobs in the IT world.


“They can say, ‘I’ve put cables together. I’ve installed a server,’” explains Blanchard. “That’s something you can’t get from just reading a book.”


The Broader Career Landscape

Blanchard is on to something big — and the data backs it up.


According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. That includes roles like:


Computer Support Specialists

Median pay: $59,660/year

Often requiring only a postsecondary certificate or associate degree.


Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Median pay: $90,520/year

Many enter the field with two-year degrees or even certifications plus hands-on experience.


Information Security Analysts

Median pay: $112,000/year

One of the fastest-growing fields, and increasingly accessible through apprenticeships and nontraditional training.


Despite the enormous opportunity, many young people remain unaware that these careers don’t necessarily require a bachelor’s degree.


“Most kids are college-bound because that’s what they’ve been told to do,” says Ray Terry, host of About Your House Radio and co-founder of Put Tools in Schools. “But they don’t know what they’re going to do. Paul’s internship model offers another way — one with purpose and a paycheck.”


A Call to Action for Small Business Owners

Blanchard’s approach isn’t just good for the students — it’s good for business.


“When kids come in, they bring fresh ideas,” he says. “And it rejuvenates my techs. They get excited teaching and explaining what they do.”


He urges other small businesses to consider similar internship and training models:


“As small business owners, we need to give back to the community. This is one way we can do that — and strengthen our own teams at the same time.”


A New Way to “Chase Happy”

Not every kid is meant for a four-year college track, and that’s not a failure — it’s a wake-up call.

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO:

rough internships like those at NerdsToGo, students can:

  • Explore interests in tech and hands-on problem solving

  • Build resumes with real-world experience

  • Avoid the crushing debt of student loans

  • Make meaningful contributions to their community


As Ray Terry put it:

“You can make a lot of money, but more importantly — you find purpose. You’re serving. That’s what we need out there.”


Interested in Tech? Here's Where to Start:


  • Explore certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Google IT Support

  • Visit local tech repair or cybersecurity firms and ask about internships or shadowing

  • Tune into About Your House Radio on Saturdays for more interviews with trade professionals

  • Check out local community colleges offering 2-year IT programs or workforce development tracks


For more resources, visit www.puttoolsinschools.org and connect with local businesses offering hands-on training. Because sometimes, the smartest move isn't another classroom — it's the first step into a real career.

Get Involved

  • Volunteer at a local school

  • Sign up your company for career day programs

  • Donate to help expand trade awareness efforts

Or, if you’re a student ready to trade the classroom for hands-on success, reach out. The shovel’s waiting.

🛠 Put Tools in Schools is building tomorrow’s workforce today—one trade at a time.📻 Catch more stories like Sean’s every Saturday morning on “About Your House” on Fox Sports Charlotte.


Support the mission by donating or volunteering at www.puttoolsinschools.org.




 
 
 

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