As partners of a thriving tech company, Penny Belluz and Ryan Johnson embody the concept that success comes from the people you work with.

“The most surprising thing we’ve learned is that it’s not the widgets you are selling. It’s selecting the correct people to be part of your team and providing the appropriate mentorship and leadership so they can grow to their full potential,” Penny says.

“Our people are our priority,” Ryan adds, “and we recognize which people solve problems, take initiative and add value.”

Penny and Ryan are prime examples.

She began at Teleco selling cellphones, working to pay off student debt.

“I thought I would move on,” Penny says. “But it was obviously meant to be. I have not looked back.”

Ryan, who had experience in IT, joined in 2012 in sales. Today he’s the director, primarily focused on Managed IT Services.

Penny, the director of operations, ensures everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

Founded in 1985 by Frank Littlefield, who remains as president and partner, Teleco has seen a transformation in products and services. The trend is now towards the Internet and the Cloud.

“The future will see more remote and transient workers and multiple offices that need real-time connectivity and collaboration,” Penny says.

Cloud security, multi-cloud environments, hybrid solutions and migration integration are all challenges that businesses must prepare for. Businesses will also need tech solutions that are easy for employees to use and that will integrate seamlessly with the tools used in and out of the office.

“Artificial intelligence and ‘the Internet of Things’ is also going to have a big impact on society and business in general,” Penny says. “Although AI will bring many awesome benefits it will also open the door to major security risks.”

With a staff of 20, Teleco boasts cutting-edge technology and first-class customer service.

“As a small business ourselves we understand the needs of our market for innovative technology, and how to bring efficiencies and cost savings to our peers,” Penny says.