Lane Metro Partnership

It's Real Here

Lane County, Oregon Sep 06, 2010

Lane Metro Partnership Presents Economic Excellence Awards

April 1st, 2010

The Wildish Companies and Ninkasi Brewing Company were presented the 2009 Excellence Award during the Lane Metro Partnership 25th anniversary dinner, Tuesday, March 30, 2010.  The economic excellence awards are given to successful Lane County businesses who demonstrate a commitment to our community, their employees, customers and industries.

The Wildish Companies began in 1935 when T.C. Wildish invested in a truck and started hauling gravel for the construction of the highway between Eugene and Junction City.  Today the Wildish Companies work throughout the western states with an emphasis on the Pacific Northwest and Oregon.  Some of Wildish’s most recognizable local projects include the 2002 Autzen Stadium expansion, recent development of PK Park, LTD’s on-going EmX project and the expansion of the Metro Wastewater treatment plant near Belt Line.  The Wildish Companies remain a family business; Jim Wildish is the President and CEO, his sons Mike and Steve and his nephew Bill all serve as corporate vice-presidents.

Nikos Ridge and Jamie Floyd started Ninkasi Brewing Company June 2006.   Today, Ninkasi operates its brewery in Eugene’s historic Whiteaker neighborhood.  Ninkasi has 36 employees and is in the midst of a four million dollar expansion that will allow them to triple their craft beer production and add additional employees.  Ninkasi beers are sold in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Alaska, and starting this year, Ninkasi beers are available in California.

Bobby Lee, head of Strategic Planning, Corporate Communications and Environmental Services Division for Hynix Semiconductor Manufacturing America Inc., was presented the Director’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to Economic Development.

“Bobby is helping lead the effort to find a successful and productive alternative use for the Hynix facility.  Bobby is also involved in many diverse local activities, from chairing the Lane Workforce Partnership from 2007-2008 to continuing his long-term commitment to helping homeless youth,” said Lane Metro Partnership Executive Director Jack Roberts, “For the 25th anniversary of the Lane Metro Partnership, it seemed appropriate to honor both an old and a new company with our Awards for Economic Excellence.  The Wildish Companies and Ninkasi Brewing Company exemplify Lane County businesses which specialize in unique markets and are the best in their field.  Bobby Lee has been a diligent servant of Eugene, Lane County and the University of Oregon for over twenty years.”

Congressman Peter DeFazio, cofounder of the Lane Metro Partnership, was the keynote speaker.

Fast Facts

Headlines

Contents Copyright © 2003-2007 Lane Metro Partnership