Computer Hardware, Inc. is Nebraska’s largest independent Apple retailer. Jeremiah Tripp is the Business Development Manager at Computer Hardware’s Lincoln location (www.computerhardwareinc.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – We are a full sales and service Apple retail store and specialize in all Apple products. Computer Hardware recently celebrated 35 years of business, starting in Kearney, NE in 1980. We have four locations throughout the state currently and came to Lincoln in 1998. We continue to have a long-term vision of helping our customers understand and integrate these great products into their daily personal or professional lives.
How did you get started in the business? – I met my then girlfriend, now wife and she asked me if I would ever consider working for her dad. I really had no idea who he was or what he did but became interested very quickly. There was an open house that I attended for our store and began working for my now father-in-law!
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Learning the ins and outs of the fast-paced retail environment with Apple products and service.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Computer Hardware has recently been awarded the highest honor for Apple authorized service providers worldwide, “Premium Service Provider.” Helping our store become PSP status for two years straight is a major accomplishment in my career. I am very proud of helping our guys in the service department succeed and it is such a great feeling to have walking into work every day!
Tell us a little about your family. – I’m married to my lovely, patient, caring wife Sheena Tripp. No children or pets currently. I tell people that Sheena is allergic to pets and that I am allergic to kids. I grew up in Ashland, NE and have a very large immediate and extended family.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Meeting my wife and getting married, hands down. I was under the impression that I might be a bachelor for a long time. But then this cute girl came along and swept me off my feet. Best decision of my life, no question about it.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Sheena and I love tailgating Husker football games. We enjoy the new energy of Pinnacle Bank Arena, the Railyard, and the new headliners that are coming to town. However, you can probably find us on the golf course most free weekends!
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I have a small obsession with collecting old coins. I have a wheat penny collection with concurrent years from 1947. My oldest penny is 1911. My dad had a collection as I was growing up that he would let me help with from time to time. I’ve been hooked ever since!
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – My wife and I have been involved with an organization called Inheritance of Hope for a few years now. Inheritance of Hope is a non-profit organization that inspires hope in young families facing the loss of a parent.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – I’m in love with a few of them; Honest Abe’s and JTK are fantastic but I think Blue Orchid takes the crown.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Feel free to call me at the store, (402) 483-6400, email me at jtripp@computerhardwareinc.com, or contact me via our website at www.computerhardwareinc.com.