FedEx Ground honors its entrepreneurs

Three FedEx Ground contractors have been honored by the company as Entrepreneurs of the Year.  Nick Ciardiello of Metuchen, NJ, Jason Keefe of Summerville, SC, and Trent Webb of Memphis, TN, were recognized for their business development, customer service results, safety record and community support.

“For nearly a quarter century, FedEx Ground has worked in collaboration with thousands of dedicated small business owners to deliver exceptional service to the marketplace,” said Dave Rebholz, president & CEO. “These entrepreneurial men and women commit themselves to creating small businesses that deliver on a promise of reliable, cost-effective and professional service. Through their outstanding efforts they have built thriving businesses and, in the process, have made substantial contributions to their local communities.”

Ciardiello has worked as a FedEx Ground contractor for 20 years. During that time, he’s formed corporations and partnerships with other contractors and now owns and operates 16 routs with a fleet of 30 vehicles and employs 34. In addition, he has posted 17 years of accident-free driving.

Keefe employs seven drivers while running his own route each day. As busy as he is with his business, Keefe finds time to participate in a variety of community events, including sponsoring the Berlin G. Meyers Tournament, which benefits employees with disabilities and the Ronald McDonald Houses. He’s also served as a volunteer coach for the local YMCA soccer team and a local baseball league and is an avid cook, having appeared on the Food Network’s Grill It! with Bobby Flay.

Webb is a true success story, growing two businesses from start-ups to a million-dollar linehaul enterprise moving packages into an out of FedEx Ground’s Memphis hub. He started the business with two tractors in 1987 and now has six assigned runs serviced by 12 drivers operating seven vehicles. Webb also is a past captain of America’s Road Team and has 24 years of safe driving.