2008 trailblazers: 12 enduring companies building Utah.

• Author: Ryther-Francom, Sarah

FORGING A PATH ALONG UTAH'S CORPORATE TRAIL

A tradition of pioneering spirit has built Utah into one of the nation's strongest states for business today. Each year, a group of lasting companies are profiled in Utah Business. The 12 companies that make up this year's list have created a legacy of quality, integrity and service. The selected companies are exemplary not only for their longevity-each company reaches back at least 50 years-but for their commitment to Utah's economy and community. Enduring through economic ups and downs, these companies have built a heritage along Utah's corporate horizon.

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SAVAGE SERVICES CORPORATION

Allen Alexander, President & CEO Neal Savage, Vice Chairman Pictured on page 16 and 17

When Kenneth Savage returned from the Navy in 1946, he had nothing more than $600 and a dream to open his own business. With the help of his father, Cornelius Savage, Kenneth's dream became a reality when he purchased a KB-5 International truck and started C.A. Savage and Son. With the added help of his younger brothers, Neal and Luke, the company took flight.

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"[C.A. Savage and Son] had pretty humble beginnings," says Allen Alexander, current CEO and president of Savage Services Corporation. "The company began with the brothers hauling coal from the mines in central Utah to hospitals, churches and businesses. They would load and unload that truck with shovels, all by hand."

According to Alexander, more than 60 years of dedication and hard work turned the company into what it is today. Originally focusing on hauling coal and timber, the company has grown to include real estate development, equipment manufacturing, rail operation and more. Savage Services Corporation now operates more than 100 locations across the United States and Canada.

Alexander says that the company's longtime success can be attributed to the brothers' dedication to see the company grow, no matter the cost. "The three brothers had a desire to continue the business long past themselves," says Alexander. "Their long-term view included keeping most of the earnings of the business in the business, so it would continue to grow. And even though the company is family owned, the brothers were always committed to putting the best leadership in place. They made sure that the business was run professionally with a long-term view."

Alexander says that what makes Savage Services Corporation unique is its commitment to customers and employees. "At the end of the day, we have a lot of equipment, but anybody can have those things. What sets us apart is that we are a group of committed people who are safe, professional and well trained. We work together and understand our customers' needs. Together we make a great company."

CYPRUS CREDIT UNION

Dale Catten, President and CEO Pictured on page 16

"People can make a difference when they work together," says Dale Catten, CEO and president of Cyprus Credit Union. That notion-people helping people-is what led to the establishment of Cyprus Credit Union, says Catten.

The credit union started in 1928 by a small group of Utah Copper Company employees. "They needed reasonable financial services and decided that they could utilize and help each other," Catten says. With assets totaling less than $100 and a shoe box-sized filing cabinet holding their records, Cyprus Credit Union was formed.

Since its establishment the credit union has experienced ups and downs, but has become a staple in Utah's financial realm. Today, Cyprus Credit Union has grown into a full service financial institution, surpassing more than $500 million in assets and including approximately 70,000 members.

Catten says that what keeps the credit union unique from other financial institutions is its ability to build and maintain relationships. "From the very beginning, [Cyprus Credit Union] was made up of Kennecott employees and their families, and everyone knew everyone," he says. "Today, we still try to know all of our members and our goal is to maintain our 'we know you' attitude. We've created a situation where families -generation after generation - can participate with us and belong to our community."

With a proven history of success, Catten says that Cyprus Credit Union is ready to face whatever comes in the future. "Evolution of the [financial] industry was quiet for a long time, but now it's changing almost on a daily basis. We are always looking at new products and services for the very distant future. We're always ready to help our new members with our services," he says.

"We're all about people helping people," he adds. "It's the cooperative nature of our industry and that helps make our employees and customers happy."

KENNECOTT UTAH COPPER

Andrew Harding, President & CEO

At the heart of Utah's pioneer spirit is the mining community, says Andrew Harding, current president and CEO of Kennecott Utah Copper. "Mining has championed the state of Utah for over 100 years. We have plans to extend the company's life through 2036, but mining and the production of copper could last much longer than that," says Harding.

The original Utah Copper Company was created in 1903 to mine and process low grade copper ore. During...