Looking back, and forward.

• Author: Francom, Sarah Ryther
• Position: From the Editor - Editorial

During the past 25 years, Utah's business environment has evolved from a humble mining community to a robust economic engine. Business development and expansion began to take place during the 1970s, much due to the vision of former Gov. Calvin Rampton. Recognizing a need for industry diversification, Rampton issued a challenge to business leaders and policy makers to turn Utah into a business powerhouse.

The work began with a Rampton-led group, commonly referred to as Rampton's Raiders. The all-volunteer team was dedicated to the mission of enhancing Utah's economy, meeting weekly at Lamb's Cafe to discuss and plot real ways that they could build the state into something great--on a local and national level. Their vision and diligent work paved the way for future business growth and economic success.

By the 1980s, Utah's business community was on the brink of great expansion. In 1981, the Sundance Institute was launched. Huntsman Chemical opened in 1982; that same year, the University of Utah implanted the first artificial heart. In 1984, Delta Airlines acquired Western Airlines, which led to Salt Lake International Airport becoming a major hub of the West. These, among other success stories, were just the beginning of major business expansion in the Beehive State.

When Utah Business published its first issue in 1986, industries like manufacturing and financial services had secured a major position in the state. Utah's transportation network was beginning to expand, positioning the state to become a distribution hub of the West. And with the launch of companies like Novell and WordPerfect, the state's tech industry was gaining momentum. In short, business was beginning to boom.

As we celebrate our 25th year in business, we are excited to bring you this special commemorative issue in which we remember and celebrate the people, companies and events that have shaped Utah into what it is today--one of...