TASA
Thompson Appliance
Service Academy Lake Lure, NC · Est. 2027
Presentation · Program Overview

Where Skill
Becomes Opportunity

A 3-week intensive trade program that turns motivated people into certified, job-ready appliance repair technicians. Built by a 40-year family business. Grounded in real-world diagnostics. Optional lodging at Rumbling Bald Resort — $50/night.

3
Weeks Intensive
8
Major Appliances Covered
40yr
Family Business Legacy
$0
College Debt Required
Slide 01

The Opportunity Nobody Is Talking About

While the country debates four-year degrees and mountains of student debt, a quiet crisis is unfolding in every household in America: there aren't enough skilled appliance repair technicians.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a persistent shortage of qualified technicians through at least 2034 — and the problem is already here. Lead times for repairs stretch to weeks. Manufacturers are desperate for certified service partners. The average American family owns 9 major appliances and has no one to call when they break.

That's where you come in.

32K+

Open Positions

BLS-tracked job openings for home appliance repairers nationally, with more unfilled than any year on record.

19%

Technician Gap

Industry shortage: nearly 1 in 5 technician positions goes unfilled. Demand consistently outpaces supply.

🔧

Can't Be Outsourced

A broken refrigerator in Asheville can't be repaired from overseas. This is a local, recession-resistant trade.

$0

No Degree Needed

High school diploma (or equivalent) is all the paper you need. The rest is skill, confidence, and a good toolbox.

Watch · The Industry in 9 Minutes
How to Become an Appliance Repair Technician (2026 Full Guide)
Business Geek · 8:58 · Training, Pay, Certification & Jobs
Slide 02

What Does This Career Actually Pay?

Let's talk real numbers. Appliance technicians range from employees earning hourly wages to independent owner-operators running their own business. TASA prepares you for the full spectrum.

Entry-Level Employee
$38–52K
Working for a shop or manufacturer warranty program, typical year 1–2
Experienced Technician
$55–80K
3–5 years experience, efficient diagnostics, premium service area
Owner-Operator Business
$80–130K+
Running your own route with repeat customers and premium brand contracts
💡 The Real Upside

Unlike salaried jobs, a skilled technician's income is tied directly to efficiency — not politics, degrees, or years of service. The faster and more accurately you diagnose and repair, the more you earn. TASA teaches you to be fast and accurate.

🔑 The Business Path

Many TASA graduates don't just get a job — they build a business. With low startup costs (van, tools, and your certification), an appliance repair business can be profitable within the first few months of operation. Chris Thompson started that way over 15 years ago — building on a family appliance business now in its 40th year.

Watch · Earnings Breakdown from a Working Tech
Learn Appliance Repair & How to Earn $95K–$125K Your First Year (2025–2026)
Chris Stokes · 5:49 · Earnings, career path, getting started
Slide 03

Why TASA? The Honest Answer.

There are a handful of appliance repair courses online and a few legacy trade schools. Most of them send you home with a certificate and a YouTube playlist. TASA is different — and not in a marketing-speak way. Here's the actual difference:

What You're Comparing TASA Online Courses Legacy Trade Schools
Who's Teaching 40-year family business owners with 18+ yrs active field experience Video instructors (often retired or never ran a business) Rotating faculty, often without active service routes
Duration 3 intensive weeks — get trained, get employed Self-paced (often 6–18 months, most don't finish) 6–24 months, significant time cost
Hands-On Lab Hours 80+ hours on real appliances None (watch-only) Varies widely, often limited to simulators
Lodging Available ✓ Optional — Rumbling Bald Resort, $50/night ✗ N/A (online) ✗ No (arrange your own)
AI Diagnostic Tools ✓ Servicer Edge app built-in ✗ No ✗ No
Business Training ✓ Pricing, customer handling, route building, invoicing ✗ Rarely included Basic, if at all
Tuition Transparent flat fee. No hidden costs. $200–$2,000 (no job guarantee) $4,000 tuition + $200 application fee
Career Support ✓ Manufacturer job leads + alumni network ✗ None Limited placement services

I came in not knowing the difference between a capacitor and a contactor. Three weeks later I was diagnosing refrigerators faster than guys who'd been doing it for years. The hands-on time on real machines — that's what no online course can give you.

— TASA Graduate, class Preview
Slide 04

What You'll Actually Learn

The TASA curriculum covers every major appliance category taught in 8 units over 3 weeks — from electrical fundamentals to business operations. No fluff. No filler. Everything on this list is something you'll use on a job call within your first month.

Week 1 — Foundations & Core Appliances
Unit 1
Days 1–2

Safety, Fundamentals & Electrical Basics

PPE, Lockout/Tagout, Ohm's Law, multimeter use, wiring diagrams, series vs. parallel circuits, household wiring colors.

PPE & LOTO Ohm's Law Multimeter Wiring Diagrams
Unit 2
Day 3

Washers — Top Load & Front Load

Water system diagnosis, motor/drive systems, error codes, disassembly, VMW vs. agitator machines.

Top Load Front Load Error Codes Lab: Bearing Replacement
Unit 3
Day 4

Dryers — Electric & Gas

Heating element diagnostics, gas valve systems, venting, thermal fuse safety, moisture sensors, airflow testing.

Electric Heat Gas Safety Venting Lab: Full Teardown
Unit 4
Days 5–7

Refrigerators & Freezers

Sealed system theory, defrost cycles, compressor diagnosis, thermistor testing, ice maker repair — the high-value unit of the program.

Sealed System Defrost Circuit Compressor Test Lab: Live Diagnostic
Week 2 — Advanced Appliances & Complex Systems
Unit 5
Days 8–9

Ranges, Ovens & Cooktops

Gas ignition systems, electric bake/broil elements, convection fans, electronic control boards, self-clean safety, glass cooktop repair.

Gas Ignition Control Boards Self-Clean
Unit 6
Day 10

Dishwashers

Water inlet valve, pump/motor assembly, spray arm diagnostics, drainage issues, door latch/switch problems, Bosch vs. Whirlpool platform differences.

Drainage Systems Pump Testing Error Codes
Unit 7
Days 11–12

Microwaves — Countertop & OTR

Capacitor safety (critical), magnetron testing, door interlock switches, turntable motor, OTR installation and ventilation.

Capacitor Discharge Magnetron Door Switches
Week 3 — Business Skills, Brand Specialization & Certification Prep
Unit 8
Days 13–15

Business Operations, Tech Tools & Final Assessment

Pricing jobs, invoicing, parts ordering, customer communication, Servicer Edge AI diagnostic app, final written exam and hands-on skills assessment.

Pricing Strategy Parts Ordering Servicer Edge App NASTeC Prep Final Assessment
Slide 05

Your Competitive Edge: Servicer Edge AI

Every TASA graduate leaves with access to Servicer Edge — the AI-powered field tool built specifically for appliance technicians. While other techs are digging through PDFs or calling the manufacturer hotline on hold, you'll have instant answers.

Servicer Edge AI Diagnostic & Business Platform for Appliance Technicians
  • AI Diagnostic Chat: Upload a model number or describe a symptom — the AI searches service manuals, error code databases, and repair history to walk you through the fix.
  • Parts Lookup: Real-time parts pricing from RepairClinic, Marcone, Amazon, and local suppliers — automatically compared so you order the cheapest without leaving the job.
  • Job Management: Schedule, track, invoice, and collect payment from the field. No office. No paper.
  • Customer Portal: Text your customer a live tracking link. They know you're coming. No more "where are you?" calls.
  • Warranty Claims: Auto-fill warranty forms for Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, and every major brand. What used to take 45 minutes takes 4.
  • Voice-Activated: Hands full under a machine? Speak your diagnosis. Chris does this on every call.
✅ Included with TASA Enrollment

Servicer Edge access is included with every TASA tuition. While you're a student, you'll learn on the same platform you'll use professionally — so Day 1 on the job, you're already productive.

Slide 06

Program Logistics — The Practical Stuff

One of the biggest barriers to trade school is figuring out the logistics. Where do I stay? What do I need to bring? What does a day actually look like? We've thought all of this through so you don't have to.

🏠

Lodging Available — $50/night

TASA will provide options for vetted Airbnb-style housing for $50/night. Transportation to and from the housing is included. Homecooked breakfasts and lunch, drinks, snacks, popcorn, and ice cream are included throughout the day. Recreation includes one weekend day pass to Rumbling Bald Resort.

📍

Lake Lure, NC

Beautiful mountain setting in the Blue Ridge. Easy drive from Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville.

📅

Enrollment Begins November 25, 2026

Join the interested list now. Enrollment information for the 2027 sessions will be available beginning November 25, 2026.

⏰

Daily Schedule

Classroom instruction mornings (8–12), hands-on lab afternoons (1–5), evening study optional.

🔧

Tools Provided

Core diagnostic tools provided for lab use. Toolbox purchasing guide included to build your professional kit.

📜

Certificate Issued

TASA Certificate of Completion + NASTeC exam prep. Manufacturer authorization applications assisted.

🤝

class Size

Small classs (8–12 students max) ensure every student gets real hands-on time on real machines.

🚗

Getting Here

Students come from across the country. Fly into Charlotte (CLT) or Asheville (AVL) — both ~1 hour away.

⚠️ Who TASA Is NOT For

TASA is a working-professional program. If you're looking for a slow, easy credential to hang on the wall, this isn't it. The curriculum is intense by design — because the field is unforgiving. Students who thrive here are ready to work hard for three weeks to change the rest of their career.

Slide 07

Who Should Apply?

You don't need a background in appliances. You do need the right mindset. Here's what TASA graduates have in common before they ever walk through the door:

🏅 A Note From Chris

"I started this business in my 20s with a truck, a toolbox, and more ambition than experience. What took me years to learn through trial and error — I'm handing you in three weeks. I won't teach you shortcuts. But I'll teach you the right way to do every job, every time. That's what builds a reputation. That's what builds a business."

— Chris Thompson, Founder, TASA

Slide 08

Your Certification Path After TASA

TASA gives you the skills. These credentials turn those skills into job offers, manufacturer authorization, and customer trust.

📋

TASA Certificate

TASA Certificate of Completion issued on last day. Signed by both founders. Recognized by regional employer partners.

🎓

NASTeC Ready

Unit 8 includes dedicated NASTeC Major Appliance exam prep. Most graduates test within 30 days of program completion.

🏭

Manufacturer Auth

TASA assists graduates with Whirlpool, GE/Haier, LG, Samsung, and Electrolux factory-authorized service applications.

🌐

Alumni Network

Access to TASA alumni group for job leads, parts sourcing tips, and ongoing support from a community of working techs.

Appendix Links

📋

NASTeC Exam Prep Guide

Study breakdown, topic weights, and registration steps

 🏅

Other Certifications Worth Pursuing

EPA 608, EEOC, brand-specific factory certifications
Slide 09

What Happens the Week After You Graduate?

Three scenarios — every one of them a win. TASA prepares you for all three.

🏢

Path A: Get Hired

Apply to appliance service companies, manufacturer warranty networks, or home warranty providers. Start building experience and income immediately while continuing to develop your skills.

Typical timeline: employed within 2–4 weeks
🚐

Path B: Start Your Business

Hang your shingle, set up your Servicer Edge account, and start marketing in your local area. Low overhead, no inventory required. Week 3 business training gives you the pricing and operations foundation.

Typical timeline: first customer within 30 days
🤝

Path C: Join a Partner

TASA maintains relationships with growing appliance service businesses actively looking for trained technicians. If you'd prefer a structured start with mentorship, we connect you directly.

Ask about our partner placement network
Slide 10

Common Questions

Do I need any prior experience to enroll?
No. We start from scratch on Day 1. If you can read a diagram and follow instructions, you can do this. Many of our best students came in with zero background. What matters is your work ethic and your attention to detail — both teachable.
Is housing really included? What does it look like?
TASA will provide options for vetted Airbnb-style housing for $50/night. Transportation to and from the housing is included. Homecooked breakfasts and lunch, drinks, snacks, popcorn, and ice cream are included throughout the day. Recreation includes one weekend day pass to Rumbling Bald Resort.
What's the total cost, and is financing available?
The program is $4,000 in tuition plus a $200 application fee, for a total required program cost of $4,200. The application fee is due with the application/enrollment process. After acceptance, 50% of tuition ($2,000) is due when you sign the Enrollment Agreement, and the remaining 50% ($2,000) is due 14 calendar days before class begins. The signed agreement and published refund policy control. TASA does not represent that a financing option is available unless approved and disclosed in writing.
How many students are in each class?
We cap each class at 12 students. This isn't a lecture hall. You'll work alongside your instructor on real machines — that requires small groups. This also means each class fills quickly.
Can I really make $80K+ my first year?
That depends entirely on you. An employee starting out in a decent market is more likely in the $40–55K range their first year. Owner-operators who hustle, market well, and develop a repeat customer base can reach $80K within 1–2 years. The technicians who earn $100K+ are usually running an efficient one-person operation with strong customer relationships and premium brand authorizations. TASA gives you the foundation — you build the income.
Is this NASTeC accredited?
TASA is a private industry training program. We are not a college and do not award college credits. We do specifically prepare you for NASTeC national certification (the industry standard) and for manufacturer-authorized service applications. The certificate you leave with has real-world value because it comes from active working professionals — not an accreditation committee.
I'm coming from out of state. How does that work?
We have students enrolling from across the country. The nearest major airports are Charlotte (CLT, ~1 hour) and Asheville (AVL, ~50 minutes). Housing is provided on-site. You arrive Sunday before the program starts, check in, get oriented, and begin Monday morning. It's designed to be simple even if you've never been to Lake Lure before.
What tools do I need to bring?
You don't need to arrive with a toolbox. All tools required for lab work are provided. During Week 3, you'll receive a recommended toolbox build list — what to buy, what brands are worth the money, and what to skip. By program end, most students have a complete professional starter kit ready to go.

Ready to Turn Skill Into
Opportunity?

Enrollment begins November 25, 2026. Join the interested list now for 2027 session information.

Join the Interested List Learn More About TASA
📚 For Enrolled Students

You're looking at the program overview. Once enrolled, TASA provides the student workbook through a private, password-protected download link.

🎓 Applications Begin November 25, 2026 — Join the Interested List Now I'm Interested →