PeopleNet, a provider of Internet-based and integrated onboard computing and mobile communications management, announced that Ernst & Young has named Ron Konezny, the company’s chief executive officer and founder, as a finalist for its Entrepreneur Of The Year Award in the Upper Midwest region, which includes Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota.
This is the 23rd anniversary of the program, which has been expanded to recognize business leaders in more than 135 cities in 50 countries throughout the world. Awards are given to entrepreneurs who demonstrate extraordinary success in the areas of innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities.
“It is humbling to be recognized with such an illustrious group of entrepreneurs who make a tremendous difference in their communities and in those they serve,” Konezny says. “This recognition would not be possible without the incredible work of PeopleNet’s invaluable customers, employees and investors.”
PeopleNet says Konezny has positioned it as the fastest-growing wireless tracking and mobile communications provider in the transportation industry, and that under his leadership as chief operating officer and chief financial officer, the company tripled its revenues and became continuously profitable.
Originally, as the company’s chief technology officer, Konezny led the launch of several of PeopleNet’s flagship products and services designed to help North America’s trucking industry improve fleet management, including the first commercial product to integrate GPS, wireless communications and the Internet. During that time, the company also launched its patented OTAP (over-the-air programming) capabilities, handheld integration, PerformX engine diagnostics and email-based form messaging.
