Teens Take On Security

Maintaining computer security can be a difficult and complex problem to solve, but some budding local entrepreneurs are tackling the problem head on.

Pro-Tech Security is a company formed as part of Junior Achievement of Waterloo Region’s Company Program. They are using a simple approach to help keep our computers secure from viruses, hackers and fraudsters. Selling a USB key containing just one thing: a document filled with simple advice on how to stay safe and links to free security software.

After learning about Pro-Tech's ideas from a report in The Record, I felt I had to meet these enterprising young people for myself. Linda and I attended a Junior Achievement Open House last night, running at St. David's Catholic Secondary School in Waterloo.

We were greeted by Vice President of Sales & Marketing (and also the friendly person I exchanged e-mails with) 15-year old Brenna Koehler. She gave us a brief overview of Pro-Tech's product and assembly line, and introduced us to numerous employees hard at work putting together the 'Security Vault' USB key. One such engaging young man was Doug Wallbank, who at just 17 years old, is President of Pro-Tech Security and an eager entrepreneur.

In speaking with several of the ProTech staff, it's clear that they are passionate about making a product that helps computer users to help themselves.

The Pro-Tech 2GB Secure Vault USB key sells for $20, and comes with protective case, lanyard and stylist presentation box. And of course, there's the pre-loaded PDF document with your security tips'n'tricks.

To find out more, and place your order, please contact these aspiring business leaders at: pro.tech.ja@gmail.com