Best Buy “Geek Squad” Teams Up with YCLA

This fall, Youth Connection Leadership Academy (YCLA) teams up with Best Buy to bring state-of- the art technology expertise into its instructional technologies curriculum. “Geek Squad” professionals will assist classroom instructors in teaching about the latest technologies.
“The students are excited because they will be working with mobile devices, tablets, and wireless home networks,” said Vernon Thomas, YCLA Instructor.
The YCLA Information Technology Pathway encourages students to be proficient and innovative in a rapidly evolving field. Students learn information systems and techniques as they achieve computer and software certification. With these skills, YCLA students are prepared to pursue higher education and careers in technology.
According to Best Buy Community Relationship Program Manager Jack Stonebraker, the collaboration is beneficial to Best Buy as well.
“At Best Buy, one of our objectives is to strengthen our communities and to fuel innovation in education and how we use technology where we live, work, play and learn,” Stonebraker said. “The overall objective is to give the students insight and hands-on knowledge from an IT professional that is working in the IT field and to motivate them to complete their education and career certifications necessary for them to fulfill their personal goals,” he added.