Deb Evans, CEO of Computer Explorers, isn’t a buttoned-up executive speaking from an ivory tower. She comes off more like a straight-shooting friend with a lot of knowledge and wisdom than a remote executive. That’s probably because Evans started on the ground floor at Computer Explorers as a part time teacher. She fell in love with the brand and ended up buying a franchise. She still has the enthusiasm of a new franchise owner.

Computer Explorers: How long have you been with Computer Explorers?
Deb Evans: I started as a teacher in 1996 when I was working on a degree in education. Then next thing you know, I owned a franchise.

CE: Why Computer Explorers?
DE: Computer Explorers is all about the success of the franchisee. We want every franchisee to have profitable, meaningful career and a balanced life. It’s extremely gratifying to witness a franchisee embrace the life of an independent small business owner in control of his or her own destiny. Many franchisees and potential franchisees are searching for something they haven’t yet found in their careers. They want to make money, but they also want to make a difference. That was certainly my mindset when I became a franchisee.  I thought I was going to end up in traditional education, but Computer Explorers opened up a whole new path for me. It’s great when you know you’re a part of someone finding a career path that’s right for them.

Computer Explorers: How did you hear about us?
DE: I heard about Computer Explorers from a neighbor who was a part time teacher.  I was in school, Rowan University,and raising three kids at the time. I started as a part time teacher and got hooked. I saw children excited about learning from the get-go. I saw a way I could be involved in teaching with more independence than I thought was possible.

CE: What’s your background?
DE: Since 2005, I have worked in Houston at the corporate headquarters first as Franchise Support Manager and nowCEO. Before that I was a franchisee in New Jersey. Prior to Computer Explorers I did a variety of things – from running a licensed home daycare to working for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. I raised a family. I was always interested in education, healthy and productive relationships and meaningful, ethical, profitable businesses and services.

CE: What do you like best about the Computer Explorers franchise opportunity?
DE:  It’s ALWAYS exciting and interesting. I can tell you, it would be the hardest thing in the world to walk away from. I love the culture. I love the relationships that develop and grow with franchisees and colleagues.  We are a real community; it’s not just business as usual. We know and care about everyone. We know each other’s families. We even know the names of the pets. It’s pretty remarkable.

CE: Can you share one of your secrets?
DE:  When I was a franchisee I rarely had to place an ad for teacher. I always had a great staff. I started out from the beginning by building strong, authentic relationships. I don’t think you can overemphasize the importance of building trust and taking the time to do it. It’s the foundation of your franchise.  People want to join a team with great relationships.

CE: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned?
DE: I went into this without the confidence that I could do it. I was terrified. Could I be a manager, do the numbers hire the people?  I gained the confidence step by step.  A whole new and unexpected career unfolded for me that integrates so many of my interests – education, leadership, people, children, service.

CE: What keeps you active in your free time?
DE: I love Computer Explorers so much that it’s both a career and a hobby. I love keeping up with all the cutting edge trends in education and technology. I have a radio show called Social Geek Radio on Blog Talk Radio. I also have a grandson, so of course I stay busy with them.

CE: Why would you recommend Computer Explorers to someone interested in owning a business?
DE: We haven’t peaked yet and that’s important because we are going to continue to get better and better. Computer Explorers is a rare business opportunity because it makes a difference on so many different levels. The vast majority of the schools and youth-oriented organizations that partner with us wouldn’t be able to afford to offer these classes to their students without us. We provide an unmatched value they can’t get anywhere else. It’s a profound feeling to know you are helping shape the future of children. We feel that at Computer Explorers on a daily basis. It’s truly a ground breaking franchise with a business model that works.