Alan Layton.

• Position: Brief Article

Along with most of Utah construction industry in the mid-1980s, the Layton family business felt the recession squeeze. When floods in 1983 created an abrupt rise in the Great Salt Lake, Layton Construction was awarded the contract to build massive pumps on the salt flats that would forever protect the citizens of Salt Lake City from imminent inundation. The pumps may have turned out to be a state debacle, but was just one of many subsequent projects that helped boost Layton Construction to its present status of largest commercial builder in the state.

Today, Alan Layton, president and CEO, looks back on Utah's 15 years of steady growth and attributes part of his company's success to the same philosophy he applies to the economic wellness of the state: the ability to capitalize on change. He also believes in the bedrock entrepreneurial spirit of Utah. "Some people believe business prospers according to its ability to outsmart others; conquer by crushing -- business according to Attfla the Hun -- kill or be killed. Not so. Creating incentives for a win-win experience brings huge dividends down to road."

The most significant factors influencing Utah's business climate? The quality of life in Utah and the quality of people available to fill positions in the workforce. "Utah people can compete with any people in this county or the world in terms of education, character and work ethic," says Layton.

"With a strong work...