Windham Chamber of Commerce Awards – 2014
Good evening, I’m Dick Williams, Chairman of the Ashford Economic Development Commission and a member of the Ashford Business Association. On behalf of the commission and the Town of Ashford, I’m proud to present the Ashford Business of the Year Award to Yeagle Technology, Inc. and Brian Savulis, the owner and President.
Yeagle Technology, Inc. (YTI) was founded in 1984 in Ashford. The company’s focus was to provide field service on vacuum equipment. YTI was purchased by Brian in 2005. Under his leadership YTI’s service business has expanded to include customizing of existing vacuum equipment, and the building of new systems. Sales have also increased fourfold; serving clients across the entire country and employing 12 people.
Even though the bulk of YTI’s business is national — the company and its President, Brian Savulis, are active supporters of the community and businesses in the Town of Ashford.
The Ashford EDC originally helped organize the Ashford Business Association about 10 years ago. However, over time the association became inactive because of changing leadership and lack of direction. Three years ago the Ashford EDC held meetings with local businesses to attempt to revitalize the association. At that time Brian stepped forward to lead the association and became its president.
Under Brian’s leadership the ABA has grown to include over 35 businesses in Ashford and the surrounding towns. He encouraged the association to become actively involved in the community — holding fund raising events that benefited the local Food Bank, the Volunteer Fire Department, the Little League, the PTO, and the town’s 300th Anniversary Committee. Lastly through Brian’s leadership the ABA organized a Business Expo that attracted over 200 attendees. Quite a feat in a small town like Ashford!
Brian, we appreciate your years of service to our community and local businesses. Your gift for organizing and empowering others has made the ABA a vibrant part of the Town of Ashford. Thank you, Brian, and congratulations.