Founded in 1993 by President and CEO Kathleen (Kathy) Pakkebier, PCS Mobile (formerly Portable Computer Systems), began as an integrator of mobile data products. During the early years, one of the main obstacles was selling the concept of having a rugged laptop computer in a vehicle. Prior to having a “rugged” product available, public safety was not the ideal environment for a computer. There were concerns that laptops could not withstand the hazards of a car’s environment such as the constant vibration, drops, food and beverage spills, and temperature variations. Poor color-screen technology was another challenge. In addition, there were very few software packages available for mobile data applications.
Kathy saw an opportunity to provide a total mobile data solution to public safety organizations by partnering with a national laptop manufacturer with a quality reputation and a specialty product line featuring rugged laptops. Early successes were in public safety organizations in Colorado, however, positive referrals led to additional opportunities in many other states. In 1997, the “big break” came from the Denver Police Department. Working closely with our partners, PCS Mobile was awarded the largest public safety purchase for in-vehicle laptops. After years of hard work, the ability to put a laptop into a car had been proven. Often, PCS Mobile was the only computer reseller at many public safety shows, but the agencies no longer wondered if the product would stand up to their harsh environment. Success stories were shared, and the company’s reputation became well known and established.
In the early stages, the company focused primarily on government and public safety applications but as the organization has grown, PCS Mobile has expanded its reach into other vertical markets including utilities, healthcare and field service. Our product lines have grown and diversified to accommodate the expanding needs of our customer base and include wireless voice and video applications—in addition to our mobile data products and services.
In 2003, PCS Mobile was recognized by Panasonic Solutions Company as “Partner of the Year” and continues to be one of their top Value Added Resellers (VARs) in the Panasonic Toughbook Premier Partners Program (TP3). In addition, in 2009 and 2010 PCS Mobile was recognized as one of North America's Top Technology Integrators by Everything Channel's annual VAR500 list. The list features companies that are the leading revenue producers among solution provider organizations in North America. Also, PCS Mobile, and the President, Kathy Pakkebier, have been recognized since 2004 as one of the top female owned businesses, within the state of Colorado, by ColoradoBiz Magazine.
PCS Mobile continues to plan for future success by creating partnerships with exemplary manufacturers, improving our knowledge base and judiciously expanding into new areas of mobile technology to ensure that clients are always provided quality solutions, best in class products and expert services.