The Computer Doctor Is In At CastilloTech

Small business ownership can be a big task, with even bigger risks. But many would say, "no risk, no reward." This week Patch shines the business spotlight on a small business that epitomizes the entrepeneurial spirit. Led by Oak Forest's own Ruben Castillo, CastilloTech performs computer, cell phone, and game console repairs.

After graduating from Daley College in Chicago, Castillo went to work for a nonprofit company as an IT specialist.  Recently, the organization fell upon hard times due to the recession. Layoffs followed, and Castillo was one of the casualities.

Even with more that 12 years experience, he discovered the job market was very thin in his field, so he decided to start his own business.

"I had always been fixing game systems on the side," said Castillo, "so I decided to try and expand it. I started advertising on CraigsList, and eventually I got so busy I decided to open my own place."

He moved to Oak Forest two years ago with his wife and four children, and he decided to stay local.

"We opened in December of 2010," he said.  "I wanted to stay close to home, so we looked around and found this storefront (15423 S. Cicero Ave.). It has worked out well. People are finding us here."

Game system repairs account for the largest portion of his business. And judging by his speedy turnaround time, it will continue to grow. Most big box stores have to ship out gaming systems, which can take two to three weeks, Castillo said.  CastilloTech is much faster.

"I try to have things ready in one day," he said. "If I'm really busy, it might take a couple of days.  And we beat all written estimates."

At this point Castillo is performing most of the repairs himself, with some part-time help from his brother.

"Eventually I would like to hire someone to help." he said, "even if it's just taking calls."

Like many new business owners, Castillo is learning as he goes. 

"I used to open the doors at 9 a.m.," he said, "but the customers didn't start coming in until around 11.  So now I open at 11, and use the morning hours to make house calls."

CastilloTech performs all types of computer, cell phone, and game system repairs.  They also repair iPods, iPads, and iPhones.

So is being a business owner everything he expected it to be?

"I didn't realize it would be so many hours," he said.  "The door closes at 7 p.m., but there is still work to be done. But it's definitely worth it. I love being able to try whatever I want to try without having to ask for someone's approval."

It looks like he's making pretty good choices so far.

CastilloTech is located at 15423 S. Cicero Ave. in Oak Forest.  They can be reached by phone at 708-59-FIXIT (34948) or by email at support@castillotech.com.  Their website is www.castillotech.com.  You can also find them on Facebook.

PLEASE VISIT the CastilloTech listing in the Patch Places directory for more information.