Eric Dobson, CEO of TrakLok Corp., was named Entrepreneur of the Year by Technology 2020’s Innovation Valley Technology Council.
Dobson is the former CEO of Navigational Sciences Inc. He co-founded TrakLok in 2008 to develop and commercialize both GeoLock hardware and Traklog software to manage container security and provide the industry’s first complete intermodal tracking security system. Earlier this year, Dobson acquired local company TeleSensors to provide electronic design and development, and wireless sensor platform.
Also honored with the council’s Navigator Awards were:
n MS Technology of Oak Ridge, Technology Company of the Year. Founded in 1994 as a Tech 2020 incubator client, MS Technology began building its business with microwave melting technology developed at the Y-12 National Security Complex. A graduate of Y-12’s mentor protege program in 2008, MS Technology employs 160 individuals.
n Jimmy Mays, a University of Tennessee chemistry professor, and Lee Bzorgi, director of the National Security Technology Center at Y-12, Pathfinder Research Entrepreneur of the Year.
“Dr. Mays and Dr. Bzorgi have a distinguished history of innovation and entrepreneurship,” said John Hopkins, the Tech Council’s chairman. “And while their accomplishments and awards in transforming ideas into useful products are tremendous, the work they do to educate and mentor area teachers and students is also critically important in building a sustainable entrepreneurial eco-system.”
n Materials and Chemistry Laboratory Inc., Community Spirit Award. Barry Stephenson serves as president and CEO of the company that supports technology-based educational programs at Oak Ridge schools and Roane State Community College.
n Sam Hart, Knoxville Chamber’s technology and manufacturing consultant, Member of the Year. “Sam is one of those unique individuals that goes above and beyond the call of duty to help out with any request, problem or task,” Hopkins said.