Free Geek can teach you how to build computers. If you agree to complete at least five computers, we will teach you the process. The computers you build go to those in the Adoption Program, local not-for-profits, and the thrift store. This program focuses on learning about building computers, but you can keep the sixth computer you complete.
What you’ll learn
You’ll learn a wealth of information about computers in our Build Program, which we break down into several sequential steps:
- Card and Motherboard Sorting: builders learn to identify both legacy and modern component cards and motherboard parts.
- System Evaluation: determine which donated computer systems are up to Free Geek’s specifications by examining motherboards and determining processor speed. Learn about hardware and basic troubleshooting while you work.
- Quality Test, then Assemble Hardware and Load Linux Software: you’ll do this in build workshops, where Build Instructors can start you off and answer your questions. We offer build workshops ten times a week, so it shouldn’t be hard to find one that fits into your time schedule. Contrary to common belief, you won’t consistently produce systems during this portion of the program without any hitches. The issues you’ll encounter during this step will teach you about troubleshooting.
We don’t require any prior knowledge of those entering the program. In fact, if you can closely follow a recipe, you should be comfortable in the program. You should be willing to spend between 60 and 100 hours at Free Geek if you’d like to join.
Build Program shifts are less flexible than Adoption Program shifts. Free Geek offers 10 shifts per week, and Build Program volunteers need to arrive on time so they can take advantage of all there is to learn. We find that most volunteers do best if they work a shift at least once every week or two. It’s worth the time and effort!
After Build volunteers have completed the program, they can keep building systems, become build instructors, or help out in advanced testing or the laptop area. Learn more on our Current Volunteers page.
Getting started
To sign up for the Build program, please come to one of our daily tours. They are offered at noon and 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday at the Free Geek facility. We’ll sign you up for your first shift after the tour.
Once you have completed the Build Program, please participate in our Build Program Survey.
