Empire Southwest, a cornerstone of the Elko mining community, has been in business for an impressive 74 years. Joining the Elko Area Chamber in 1990, Empire Southwest has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the community and the mining industry. Austin Senecal, the General Service Manager of the Mining Division at the Elko location, shares insights into what drives their success and the importance of their relationship with the Chamber.

Motivation:

"Developing the future leaders of the Elko mining industry is what motivates me," says Senecal. "I've had a lot of good mentors over the years, and now I'm developing the next generation so they can succeed." This dedication to mentorship and leadership development has been a key factor in maintaining Empire Southwest’s reputation for excellence over the decades.

Chamber Partnership:

Empire Southwest values its association with the Elko Area Chamber, which has provided numerous benefits over the years. "We have hosted a Business After Hours event, and it was well attended," notes Senecal. These events offer invaluable networking opportunities and help foster strong community ties.

Interesting Fact:

One of the most interesting aspects of Empire Southwest is its strong family-oriented culture. "Empire is a family business, so we have many spouses, brothers, sons, daughters, etc. working within the larger Empire family," shares Senecal. This familial environment not only strengthens their internal team but also enhances their dedication to customer service and community engagement.

Community Engagement:

While Empire Southwest does not currently accept Chamber Checks, they remain an integral part of the Elko business community through their active participation and support of Chamber events and initiatives.

Advice for New Business Owners:

Senecal offers valuable advice for those starting out in business: "Providing the best quality service will result in the most market share, and that begins with the customer-facing employees. They will treat your clients the same way you treat them, so take good care of them." This philosophy underscores the importance of treating employees with respect and care, ensuring that they, in turn, provide excellent service to clients.

Empire Southwest’s long-standing presence and commitment to mentorship, quality service, and community involvement make them a standout member of the Elko Area Chamber. As they continue to develop future leaders and foster strong community ties, Empire Southwest exemplifies the values and dedication that drive the success of Elko’s business community.