JC Computers has become a well-known fixture for locals seeking reliable technology solutions in Elliot Lake. Founded by Jay Chiasson, a Mi’kmaq entrepreneur with deep-rooted connections to the community, the business has flourished through challenges and triumphs, embodying a spirit of resilience and commitment.
Growing up in Elliot Lake, he fondly recalls his childhood memories in the area.
“I wasn’t born in this town, but I spent many years growing up here, and those memories inspired me to give back to the community,” explains the business owner.
His journey into the tech world began when he noticed a gap in reliable computer repair services locally.
“I realized I had a great deal more knowledge than other repair shops, and I wanted to create a place where people could trust they would get the help they needed,” he adds.
At JC Computers, located at 158 Ontario Avenue, customers know they will have a pressure-free experience.
“We don’t have commissions or pushy sales tactics. We simply provide what’s necessary and strive to meet every budget,” he explains. This approach has established a loyal customer base, with many clients expressing their satisfaction through word-of-mouth recommendations.
However, the road to success hasn’t always been smooth. In 2020, Chiasson faced significant challenges when construction in his plaza blocked access to his store, shortly before the pandemic hit.
Just weeks later, a car crashed into the building. “It was overwhelming,” Chiasson recalls. “Our landlord refused access to the store, and insurance support took nearly a year with minimal reimbursement.” But rather than giving up, Chiasson relocated JC Computers to a new venue, demonstrating the resilience that has become synonymous with his brand.
Today, JC Computers provides a wide array of services, from virus removal to data recovery, and has recently expanded to include phone and tablet repairs. All services can be found on its website.
Chiasson is proud of the inventory available, which features both new and used computers, laptops, desktops, and essential peripherals. “We’ve tailored our stock based on common requests, and we know what technology customers typically need in their homes,” he explains.
One heartwarming story illustrates the impact of the business’s commitment to fostering a supportive community. “A young boy came into my store years ago, eager to build his first computer. I gifted him some parts, and years later, he returned as a teenager to buy supplies for a project. He wanted to pay me back for the help I had given him,” the owner recalls, his eyes lighting up. “It was incredibly rewarding to see how far he had come.”
With a vision to maintain a personal touch, Chiasson runs the business alongside his wife May Sage, who assists with repairs and manages front-end operations. Recently, they hosted a successful Secret Santa event, further embedding JC Computers within the community fabric. The business also participates in various local events and has started a battery recycling initiative in Elliot Lake.
As Chiasson continues to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape, he remains committed to his philosophy: “Running a business is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”
With determination and a focus on providing exceptional service, the business stands as a testament to the power of community-oriented entrepreneurship in Elliot Lake.