Three Utah manufacturers recognized for excellence

The Utah Manufacturers Association, a state trade group, has recognized three companies for outstanding operational performance, economic achievement, workplace safety and community involvement.

Ophir-Spiricon of Logan was honored in the category of 1 to 50 employees.

Established in 1978, Ophir-Spiricon has more than 30 years experience in laser measurement. Despite the economic downturn, Ophir-Spiricon has been able to average more than a 10 percent growth rate per year and an average of 30 percent increased profit per employee. In addition, the firm supports the Utah Food Bank and other charity work in Cache County.

JD Machine of Ogden was recognized in the category of 50 to 200 employees. The firm, in business for 34 years, fosters a safe working environment and supports local food banks, blood drives and high school clubs and teams, organizers said.

L-3 Communications of Salt Lake City also was recognized. The company, which employs more than 4,300 Utah workers, is a leader in communications systems, including intelligence collection, image processing and satellites.

The firm currently occupies more than 1 million-square-feet of building space in Salt Lake Valley. It also has acquired two additional buildings and is in the process of constructing two more facilities.

In addition, L-3 also has funded more than 60 scholarships for local colleges and universities during the past five years.