As a family-owned business, The Ulven Companies, was recognized as a finalist in the annual Excellence in Family Business Contest conducted by the Austin Family Business Program. The Austin Family Business Program was started at Oregon State University in 1985 to serve the business community and was the second of its kind established. The program is not aimed towards start-up companies, but rather towards established family business looking for practical business tools in an affordable and easily accessible format. They provide many workshops and seminars throughout the year with an emphasis on day-to-day operations and planning for future generations.

The contest received 31 applications for 2012. Scores are totaled from written applications and the finalists advanced onto the second round. After round two, oral presentations, a winner is chosen along with three finalists in each category.

AE Coleman Chair in Family Business Director, Sherri Noxel told The Ulven Companies, “This year, the judges had an especially difficult time selecting only one winner per category…You are a special family with an exemplary business. We are pleased to have this opportunity to honor you and your contributions to the economy and to the world of family business.” A formal ceremony was held on Thursday, November 15, at the Governor Hotel in Portland.

The Ulven Companies have been in the forging industry for over 40 years – starting with the creation of Ulven Forging, Inc. in 1971. The Ulven Companies now comprise a group of four different American companies and are privately held. Each company has its unique set of process capabilities in different areas of the industry and is known for bringing high quality, cost-effective products to its customers with reliability and integrity.