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Aug 23, 2008 7:26 am US/Eastern

A One-Armed Bandit Repair Class In South Florida

Broward has five casinos, Miami-Dade has one and three other facilities have been approved for slots

HOLLYWOOD (CBS4) ― Casino-style gambling has taken off in South Florida. From cards to slot-machines, race tracks and casinos all are taking in more money than ever. With the rise in gambling, the industry says there will be even more jobs to fill.

Schools teaching card-dealing have popped up all over the place; now, students in South Florida can take part in the state's first Gaming Repair Technician training program, and learn to play a crucial role in keeping casinos rolling smoothly.

Twenty-five students started classes at Sheridan Technical Center Wednesday, August 20. They're preparing for entry-level slot technician positions, learning how to fix electronic equipment at casinos and race tracks. The nine-week program is available to students new to the industry or those just looking to upgrade their skills. It's also another option for students in the computer repair technology field.

Bob Boegli of the Sheridan Technical Center, told CBS4 Reporter Sharrie Williams, "We filled the first class almost immediately from when registration opened and we have a wait list for 5 to 6 classes."

The class has educational value but it's really about money. Students are hoping to hit the jackpot in the job market by learning these machines inside and out.

The school hopes to prepare people for jobs that can pay $18 an hour or more.

Franklyn Stephenson, 53, is currently a horse trainer who believes the casino business is his best long term bet. 

He said, "In the future, I can secure a really good job for 10,15, 20 years."

Officials in the gaming industry support the training course, since it broadens the educated work force to choose from, and they say the jobs will be there.

Gary Bittner of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel And Casino added, "The gaming industry has been a real bright spot in South Florida.  We have hired 100 people so far this year."

Broward County voters passed a bill in 2004 allowing local dog and horse racetrack owners to offer slot machine gaming.  Once that bill was passed, classes preparing students for casino-based jobs began opening up across the state.

(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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