Since 1989, SoundTraxx has been the foremost leader in model railroad electronics. Specializing in realistic, programmable sound and lighting systems for model railroads, SoundTraxx has earned a reputation as the “ones to watch”.

Thanks to their expansion and ingenuity, Custom Microwave has seen exponential growth over the past decade. And, while that growth is exciting and inspires them to continue expanding, CMi also realized that they would eventually need to take a step back, reevaluate, reassess, and establish a firm foundation before any further growth would be possible. As CMi president Clency Lee-Yow says, “a small company can make do with simple processes. As you grow, you need to change –fundamentally.”

Because of the partnership with Manufacturer’s Edge, Oliver Manufacturing was able to streamline processes that accelerated both informational and product flows through the organization. Consequently, Oliver was able to respond more quickly to the changing marketplace and evolving needs of the customers. Oliver Manufacturing reduced lead times and accelerated throughput enabling them to capture an additional $680,000 in revenues this fiscal year while reducing costs by nearly $215,000.

When Paul Kelly was named President and CEO of Research Electro Optics three years ago, he not only brought with him more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing, but also a mission to take REO to the next level of performance and to an age of faster growth. It is not unusual for a company that has been around for more than 40 years to hit a plateau, and as Kelly says, “a company that is flat is a company that is falling behind.”

Established in 1952, Elward Systems specializes in engineering and fabricating lightweight exterior cladding panels that are appealing for both performance as well as aesthetics for a wide variety of structures across the western United States. Their unique architectural influence can be observed on such buildings as the Colorado State University Research Innovation Center in Fort Collins and the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

Specializing in metal manufacturing for the medical device and aerospace industries, Qualtek has a solid reputation for innovative problem solving and highly customizable solutions designed to meet a wide variety of unique client needs.

After several years of steady growth, Intrex recently found themselves at a crossroads and realized that they needed to expand their operations in order to meet rising demand. The 73,000 square foot facility they eventually selected effectively tripled their space. Although the new building was only 10 miles east of their previous location, Intrex knew that it would be a massive undertaking to migrate all of their equipment, supplies, staffing, and materials.

Janska was founded in 2002 when owner Jan Erickson decided to pursue her dream of making fashionable, durable, and easy-to-wear fleece clothing. Based in Colorado Springs, Janska started out small and has grown rapidly in size, output and recognition. In addition to being featured on such programs as the “Today Show” and “Good Morning America,” Jan also regularly receives accolades from her peers and her community.

Barber-Nichols Inc. (BNI) specializes in the design and manufacture of turbomachinery for aerospace, cryogenic, defense, energy, and a variety of commercial applications. Products include specialty compressors, fans, pumps, turbines, generators, motors, controllers, and more. In addition to specialty hardware, BNI also provides engineering consulting, contract manufacturing, and since 1966 BNI has been combining innovation with technical expertise to develop products for a growing array of diverse industries. Barber-Nichols is a 100% employee owned company located in Arvada, Colorado and in 2013 BNI received the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation’s Pioneer Award. This award is given to a company that is a pioneer in its industry, demonstrates significant and sustained growth, and invests in its people and community.

Faustson Tool is a high precision machine shop and worldwide leader in 5 Axis Manufacturing Technology that specializes in providing innovative solutions to a wide array of manufacturing trials throughout the aerospace, defense, medical, semi-conductor, energy, and aeronautic industries. Started approximately 30 years ago in an 80 square foot facility with two employees, Faustson has steadily grown into a nationally recognized Woman-owned small business housed in a 16,000 square foot facility with upwards of 20 employees. The Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation recently honored Faustson with a Business Recognition Award in 2012 for the company’s growth in primary employment and capital investment.