Kotman Technology is Turning 20
Written By: Luke Ross
As October approaches and we prepare to celebrate Kotman Technology's 20th anniversary, it's the perfect time to reflect on an incredible journey that began with one person's vision and has grown into a thriving team of dozens of professionals serving hundreds of businesses across California and Michigan.
In 2005, when Jon Kotman officially founded Kotman Technology, the IT landscape looked dramatically different than it does today. Social media was in its infancy, cloud computing was a futuristic concept, and cybersecurity meant little more than antivirus software and basic firewalls. Two decades later, we've not only adapted to these technological revolutions but also helped guide our clients through each transformation.
From Startup Vision to Central Valley Leader
What started as an entrepreneurial dream has evolved into one of the Central Valley's most trusted IT partners. The transformation from a small startup to a recognized industry leader didn't happen overnight, but through consistent commitment to our core values and relentless focus on client success.
Our approach has remained consistent throughout these 20 years: business is personal, and our job is to make sure technology works as it should, all the time. This philosophy has guided every decision, from the team members we hire to the services we develop and the partnerships we forge.
The growth from those early days to today's team represents more than business expansion. It reflects the trust that hundreds of clients have placed in us and the dedication of team members who've chosen to build their careers with Kotman Technology. Each new team member has brought unique skills and perspectives that have strengthened our collective ability to solve complex IT challenges.
Our physical growth tells part of the story, too. From those humble beginnings to our current collaborative office space designed specifically to foster teamwork and innovation, every step has been intentional. When you visit our office today, you'll see the famous rocks on team members' desks, each one representing achieved goals and our commitment to continuous improvement.
Building Relationships That Last
Throughout these 20 years, our greatest achievements haven't been measured in revenue or technology deployments but in the relationships we've built. The small accounting firm we helped recover from a devastating server crash in 2008 is still with us today. The manufacturing company that trusted us to design their first network infrastructure has grown from 15 employees to over 200, and we've supported every step of their expansion.
These long-term partnerships have taught us that successful IT support goes far beyond fixing problems when they occur. It requires understanding each client's unique business challenges, anticipating their future needs, and becoming trusted advisors who genuinely care about their success. When our clients succeed, we succeed, and this alignment has been the foundation of our growth.
Our team has always been our greatest asset, and the culture we've built reflects our belief that work should be meaningful, collaborative, and yes, fun. From impromptu Nerf gun battles to annual zoo days, we've proven that serious IT work doesn't require a serious atmosphere. This culture attracts talented professionals who want to do their best work while enjoying the journey.
The recognition we've received over the years, including the CASA Maureen Lewis Business Partner of the Year Award and the Fresno Chamber Community Champion of the Year, reflects not just our technical capabilities but our commitment to community engagement and giving back.
Adapting Through Technological Revolutions
These past 20 years have witnessed unprecedented technological change, and our ability to guide clients through each transition has defined our value as a trusted IT partner. We've helped organizations navigate the shift from on-premises servers to cloud computing, from basic email security to comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks, and from traditional office environments to remote-first operations.
The COVID-19 pandemic tested every organization's technology resilience, and we're proud that our clients were among the best-prepared for the rapid shift to remote work. Years of strategic planning, infrastructure development, and security implementation enabled smooth transitions that kept businesses operating while competitors struggled.
Our cybersecurity expertise has evolved alongside the threat landscape, from simple virus protection to comprehensive security frameworks that address modern threats like ransomware, social engineering, and supply chain attacks. This evolution reflects our commitment to staying ahead of emerging challenges rather than simply reacting to them.
The rise of cloud computing, mobile technology, and remote work has transformed how businesses operate, and we've been privileged to guide organizations through these transformations. Each technological shift has presented new opportunities to deliver value and strengthen client relationships.
Looking Forward: The Next Chapter
As we approach this significant milestone, we're not just celebrating the past but preparing for an exciting future. The next 20 years promise even more dramatic technological changes, from artificial intelligence and automation to quantum computing and edge technologies.
Innovation continues to drive our evolution as we invest in emerging technologies, expand our service capabilities, and develop new ways to deliver value to our clients. The quarterly goal-setting process that gives each team member their "rocks" ensures that we're constantly growing and improving.
The collaborative culture that has been our hallmark will remain central to our identity as we grow. Whether we're solving complex technical challenges, developing innovative solutions, or celebrating team achievements, the spirit of community and mutual support that defines Kotman Technology will continue guiding our journey.
Celebrating with Gratitude
As October approaches and we prepare for our official 20th anniversary celebration, we're filled with gratitude for everyone who has been part of this journey. To our clients who have trusted us with their technology needs, often during their most critical moments. To our team members who have brought their talents, dedication, and enthusiasm to work every day. To our community partners who have supported our growth and shared our commitment to making the Central Valley a better place to do business.
This anniversary represents not just a milestone but a foundation for the next chapter of our story. The relationships we've built, the expertise we've developed, and the culture we've created position us perfectly for whatever technological challenges and opportunities the future holds.
As we count down to our celebration, we invite you to join us in reflecting on this remarkable journey and looking forward to the innovations, partnerships, and successes that lie ahead. The best of Kotman Technology is yet to come, and we can't wait to share it with you.
Stay tuned for more anniversary reflections and details about our October celebration. After 20 years of serving the Central Valley, we're just getting started.
Kotman Technology has been delivering comprehensive technology solutions to clients in California and Michigan for nearly two decades. We pride ourselves on being the last technology partner you'll ever need. Contact us today to experience the Kotman Difference.