Bob Stegner, who has spent three decades inspiring and persevering for SMB tech companies, is the latest inductee to the IT Hall of Fame. This honor was bestowed at ChannelCon Online. Bob Stegner is the son of small-business owners and knows all about the struggles and triumphs that SMBs face. He’s experienced them in many cases.
“I’ve heard all the horror stories about my dad. He came home one night and told my mom, “Mary Lou, I have good news and bad news.” We made payroll this week, which is the good news. Stegner stated that the bad news is that we are not on it.
These experiences stayed with him and provided a foundation of knowledge that has helped him through a 30-year career as a tech channel professional. He also made stops at Ingram Micro, Sarcom (now part Of Insight Enterprises), and SYNNEX. After three decades of inspiration and perseverance, Stegner was inducted into the IT Hall of Fame at ChannelCon Online.
Todd Thibodeaux (CompTIA CEO) noted that IT Hall of Fame members are often pioneers, innovators, or leaders. Stegner, he stated, exemplifies each of these traits.
“He has been a pioneer and brought a sharp focus on the SMB market. He has been a pioneer in the development of innovative sales and marketing strategies. He’s also been a mentor and leader to thousands of people and companies. Thibodeaux thanked Bob for his service and congratulated him on being elected to The IT Hall of Fame. Thibodeaux spoke in an acceptance video that was played during ChannelCon Online.
“Friends of Bob” Describe His Influence and Impact
In the CahnnelCon video, several “FoBs” (Friends of Bob) spoke about Stegner’s influence and impact on their careers as well as the IT industry.
“Bob is able to surround himself with highly motivated, successful people. His dedication to the reseller community over more than 30 years is a true testimony to serving others,” said Steve Harper. He was a retired member of Network Management Group, a Hutchinson-based solution provider and an IT Hall of Fame inductee, along with other founding members of Ingram Micro’s famed VentureTech Network. His service to large corporations, reseller businesses, as well as individuals in the IT community, has been greatly appreciated. He is a good man, a great dad, mentor, and a true giver. Bob Stegner is a true person. Bob visited the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix once and sat beside my wife while I was recovering from major surgery in 1999. That true act of kindness and friendship has stayed with me forever.”
Stegner was well-known for his dedication to SMBs and his sense of humor. Jane Cage, semiretired from Heartland Technology Solutions (a Joplin, Mo.-based solution provider) and fellow VentureTech founder, inducted into the IT Hall of Fame, remembered Stegner’s style.
“Congratulations for a career that spanned from coast to coast. Cage stated that he has never seen anyone in my IT associations who has worn a better toga than you.
Ted Warner, founder of Connecting Point Greeley and fellow VentureTech/IT Hall of Fame Inductee, took the time to reflect on the impact Stegner had on his business and many others over the years.
Warner stated, “As I thought of your induction I realized how many business leaders it had impacted.” “You have been a great friend to many and you have also inspired IT owners dream big and to succeed. I love the way you make every meeting enjoyable, but also with a strong business purpose.
Customers and colleagues line up to offer praise
Kirk Robinson, a former colleague, was senior vice president, chief country executive, US at Ingram Micro. He noted that Stegner left Ingram Micro to join SYNNEX, and established a VARnex, which is a new solution provider network, which raised the bar for everyone.
“I will always be grateful to you for giving me the opportunity to work for you. I learned so much, and while I and others took over at VTN’s helm, no one could match what you did. Robinson stated that it will always be appreciated.”
Stephanie Dismore, senior vice-president and managing director, North America for HP, praised Stegner’s impact on the IT channel and the industry. “The industry knows your authenticity and the way you approach people are unique. It gets the job done,” she stated.
Many of Stegner’s most loyal customers have had decades-long relationships with them, proving that partnerships are crucial to long-term success. “You’ve been there for my through good and bad times. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor. You are joining a distinguished group of people who have represented our industry.
IT Hall of Fame: Bob Stegner Welcomes to the Class of 2020
