Stephen Bienko

Stephen Bienko is an American businessman and athlete. He is best known as co-founder and CEO of The 42U, a student-athlete development and personal branding company. He is also the founding Director of the Institute of Athletic Performance, the former largest franchise owner of the College Hunks Hauling Junk brand.

Early life Bienko grew up in Green Township, New Jersey, and was a three-sport star during high school at the Delbarton School, where he graduated in 1994. where he competed as a decathlete and held the school record in the discus from 1998 to 2005.

Career

New Jersey State Police Following his graduation from Villanova University, Bienko began his professional career with the New Jersey State Police, serving as a state trooper assigned to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Special Task Force Unit.

Bienko later became involved in franchising through College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving. By 2014, he was the largest franchise owner in the company's system, operating 16 territories across New Jersey, Florida, Tennessee, and Ohio with annual revenues exceeding $5 million.

In 2015, he ran for the Fort Myers City Council representing Ward 2 in the September 2015 primary election, but was defeated by incumbent Johnny W. Streets Jr.

42U In 2016, Bienko co-founded 42U, a student-athlete development company focused on personal branding, career preparation, and life-skills development. Under his leadership, the company has partnered with collegiate athletic programs and organizations to provide educational and professional development resources for student-athletes.

Partnerships On January 28, 2026, 42U announced a partnership with Rutgers University Athletics aimed at enhancing student-athlete development, including personal branding, psychological assessment, and career preparation programs. The collaboration integrates 42U's branding workshops and performance tools into Rutgers’ existing Scarlet Knights For Life program, positioning the university as a leader in holistic athlete development.

Personal life Bienko lives in Morristown, New Jersey with his four children.

Bienko previously served on the board of directors for the PACE School for Girls and Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida.