đď¸ Sessions are scheduled by appointment (typically within 1â3 business days).
For immediate assistance, hardware emergencies or active security breaches, please contact a dedicated local repair shop.
Hi, I'm Steve!
Iâve been involved in tech for over 30 yearsâfrom studying Computer Science at Northwestern University to working in Silicon Valley. But these days, my favorite classroom is right here in our community.
As a volunteer teacher and coach at the Arlington Heights Senior Center, I realized how many of our neighbors feel overwhelmed by constant software updates, confusing settings, and tech jargon. I started GeekWAD (Geek "With A Dog!" đž) to change that.
My goal isn't to fix your computer while you watchâit's to sit side-by-side with you in the comfort of your home, go at your pace, and give you the hands-on confidence to navigate your devices with ease.
Learning technology as a retiree shouldn't feel rushed or overwhelming. At GeekWAD, I focus entirely on patient, side-by-side educational coaching designed to help you build confidence and long-term independence with your everyday devices.
Patience Guaranteed: No tech jargon, no rushing. As an experienced educator, I adapt completely to your personal learning style until you feel comfortable.
Youâre in the Driverâs Seat: Hands-on learning is key. I act as your guide, but you operate the device so you build real muscle memory and true independence.
Focused on Everyday Life: One-on-one sessions tailored specifically to seniors and retirees in Arlington Heightsâhelping you connect with family, manage photos, surf safely, and enjoy your tech.
Purely Educational Coaching: To ensure a safe, pressure-free learning environment, GeekWAD operates strictly as an educational coaching service. I don't sell hardware, perform complex repair work, or access computers remotely. If a device is physically broken, I'm always happy to recommend a trusted local repair shop!
One-on-one help with smartphones, laptops, tablets, and printers at your own pace.
Step-by-step, hands-on practice to build real muscle memory and confidence.
Practical coaching on recognizing scams, surfing safely, and managing passwords.
Comfortable, unhurried tutoring right in the comfort of your own home.
Voted Neighborhood Fave 2025 by Arlington Heights neighbors on Nextdoor!
"HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!! Steve came to set up our printer and was extraordinarily pleasant... He went above and beyond to assist us with a laptop and an iPhone problem."Â
â Marlene L., NextdoorÂ
"I'm grateful he is a neighbor... he got my laptop back up and running, and it was no small feat. He's honest, fast, and fairly priced."Â
â Terry G., NextdoorÂ
"We had a problem with our TV, remote and headphones... He was able to fix everything. We are seniors and he was very kind and patient."Â
â Irene P., NextdoorÂ
My goal is to keep pricing clear, fair, and easy to understand. I offer a simple in-home rate based on your birth year.
The first hour is a flat visit rate. After the first hour, additional time is billed in simple 15-minute increments.
Examples:
Born in 1940: $40 for the first hour ($10.00 per 15 min after)
Born in 1950: $50 for the first hour ($12.50 per 15 min after)
Born in 1960: $60 for the first hour ($15.00 per 15 min after)
Travel & Location
Arlington Heights: No travel fees.
Surrounding Communities: For visits outside Arlington Heights (up to 20 miles away), travel is billed at a flat $2.00 per mile based on your one-way distance from Arlington Heights (e.g., if you live 10 miles away, the total travel fee is $20).Â