Four businesses to watch in the Pikes Peak region
Our members are always making amazing things happen. Just recently, four business from the Pikes Peak region made the Colorado Biz’s prestigious “50 Colorado Companies to Watch” list. Selected from a field of 1,100 contenders, the 50 winning companies are strengthening our state’s business ecosystem. Let’s look at the four from our region, including one veteran-owned and one women-owned business.
Custom Linings, Inc.
President and founder Mark Swarney got his start in industrial linings in his twenties while researching products for the department of defense while stationed at Fort Tinker AFB in Oklahoma. He started his business upon leaving the military, eventually moving it to Colorado.
In 2011, Custom Linings developed a flexible process to protect miners and equipment from falling rock, expanding their scope of work. From preventing contamination of natural resources to making equipment last longer, they excel in finding not-so-obvious ways to save their clients’ money.
DSoft Technology, Engineering & Analysis, Inc.
Collaboration with other Colorado-based companies is a cornerstone of DSoft’s work. While they may be a relatively small company, they’ve won an impressive number of national contracts based on their ability to identify and collaborate with other companies to round out technology services.
They’re also a team player in the community. In 2018, their team donated 200 pounds of food and clothing, helping at least 1,260 local community members.
Flow Right Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, Inc.
Flow Right takes workforce development to a whole new level. In addition to creating a Department of Labor-certified apprenticeship program and an immersive internship program, they adopted a District 60 school to teach students about career opportunities in the trades.
But they didn’t stop there. While many plumbing and heating companies work on a straight commission system, CEO Lance Harvey wanted to make sure they foster a structure that aligns the employees’ interests with company values. They have a tiered incentive company based on customer feedback, creating a mutually beneficial system.
Vladimir Jones
A local ad agency with national clients and award-winning campaigns, VJ retains employees for twice the national average, thanks to a company culture rooted in equal pay, respect, transparency, and a points system that rewards glowing client reviews, tenure, and ongoing education. Did we mention they are 100 percent women-owned, too?
Their commitment to fostering good relationships and a positive culture isn’t confined to their offices. They recently created The Protect Effect, providing first responders with needed tactical gear.