The Center for Bicycle Repair Kent is inviting all bicycle enthusiasts interested in learning about bicycle mechanics to join its spring quarter training course at the free training center and bike shop in downtown Kent.

During the course, which meets weekly, trainees first learn how bicycles work by disassembling them. Next, under the supervision of the Center’s lead mechanic and founder, Cory Potts, each trainee will rebuild at least two bicycles from the frame up.

“The training is very hands-on and practical,” founder Cory Potts said. “Trainees learn by building dependable bicycles that we sell to riders in our region.”

During the Center’s inaugural pilot course, which ran between October and February, three students learned how to diagnose common mechanical problems, repair and replace components as well as how to prioritize safety and efficiently in the shop. During the pilot quarter, the Center sold three bicycles. Profits from the sale were split evenly among trainees and the supervisor.

“The goal is to encourage autonomy,” Potts added, “we do not rely on donations, we rely on building bicycles that meet the needs or riders in this region, and which riders are willing to pay for. This is how we ensure that the coursework is relevant.”

INFORMATION SESSION SATURDAY, MARCH 2
Anyone interested in applying to become a trainee is invited to attend an information session on Saturday, March 2, at 11 a.m., in our shop located at 318 W Meeker Street / Kent, WA 98032. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

About the Center for Bicycle Repair
The Center for Bicycle Repair in Kent, WA offers free job training in bicycle mechanics. Trainees learn to repair and build bicycles during quarter long courses, which are free for trainees. Courses meet outside of regular 9-5 business hours, 6 times per month. Hopeful trainees are invited to apply for our spring quarter, which begins on Saturday, March 9th.

The Center for Bicycle Repair’s mission is to spread knowledge of bicycle repair and to prepare trainees to work as professional bicycle mechanics.

The Center for Bicycle Repair is located in the old Kent Firefighter’s Union Hall. The building was formerly vacant and condemned. Through partnerships with the Kent Downtown Association, the Kent Office for Economic Development and the Kent City Permitting Office, the Center for Bicycle Repair was able to legally occupy the Union Hall at very low cost. Access to very low-rent shop spaces is what ensures our courses remain free.

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