The new Tech Store that was scheduled to open in the WTAMU JBK in January has been delayed due to technical issues.
“It has taken a considerable time to work with architects, designers, engineers and fixture manufactures to put together acceptable plans to achieve a store that is designed only for technology products,” Terry Nepper, manager of the WT Bookstore, said. “While work was being done on the physical plans enabling contractors to construct the store, we’ve been working with various vendors and technology companies in order to be allowed to sell their product.”
Some students ponder how it might be beneficial to their education. Some students are interested in accessories that can enhance the performance of their devices. These types of items are exactly what would be found at the tech store, along with various programs and other technological equipment.
“Although I normally prefer to use a computer for schoolwork, I use my iPad for the Word, Excel and PowerPoint like apps they have on there, and it comes in handy when I don’t have access to a computer,” Cody Graham, a sophomore Agriculture Business major, said.
Nepper said that the store will be a one-stop shop for students with nearly any technological need, and that prices will be discounted on an educational level, so that items should be more affordable to students than they normally would be.
“Personally, I have a bad problem with wanting things new. I’d much rather have new devices than used ones. I like having things new just so you know that everything will work right with it, and if not you can still have a warranty on there,” said Graham.
Due to complications with the amount of plans and carriers available, one particular item that will not be available at the tech store is cell phones. Nepper said that WT spoke with companies such as Verizon and AT&T about the subject, but that they are not able to offer their services to the University at this time.
The tech store will also add an extra element of convenience to WT, according to Jacob Lopez, Assistant Director of Admissions.
“I know some of the colleges we’ve visited when we’re recruiting have had technology stores, and it seems to be a bigger thing for the bigger universities, so having one at WT would definitely be a plus,” said Lopez. “I don’t see why not having a tech store would really impact someone’s decision on what college to attend, but choosing the right college for you, and having a tech store available would be a nice surprise.”
Nepper said that he believes everyone will be pleased with the efforts of all those who have been working on the store once it’s open.
