Sep. 25--FARMINGTON -- San Juan Economic Development Service honors the business community tonight with its Economic Development, Growth and Excellence Awards banquet at San Juan College.

This year's keynote speaker brings 30 years of professionalism from Texas Instruments to share with banquet-goers at San Juan College.

Charles F. "Chuck" Nielson will focus on the contributions Human Resources makes to businesses' bottom lines.

Nielson was honored by the Society of Human Resource Management and the National Academy of Human Resources. He testified multiple times to Congress, is a former member of President George H. W. Bush's Drug Advisory Council and keynoted a presentation on drug-free initiatives in a Camp David meeting.

His compelling presentation style makes him a popular speaker at schools, civic and charitable organizations across the country, according to information from San Juan Economic Development Services Director Margaret McDaniel.

The EDGE Award recognizes companies spearheading the development of a strong

economic future for the county. Created in 2002, the EDGEs recognize business for their positive contributions to the local economy and promote business enterprises helping to advance the local economic base.

This year, the pool comprises 10 nominees from which judges pick the winner. The businesses include Carter Services, Dash HotShot, FastTrack, Great Lakes Airline, Hydro Pure, Praxair, Raytheon, Riley Industrial, TRC Construction and Western Refining.

The companies represent nomination categories that include export, economic wage, import substitution, growth and leadership.

Whoever wins, he or she will replace the current award holders: Aztec Machine and Repairing/ Cranes and Material Handling, BP America San Juan Performance Unit South and PNM Generating Station.

Honored last year were Aztec Well Servicing Company and DB Technologies Inc.

The event is sponsored by Fast Track Communications, PNM San Juan Generating Station, Business & Industry Training Center and Animal Industrial Park.

Cornelia de Bruin:

cdebruin@daily-times.com

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