InfoVision, Inc. - Charlotte, NC

InfoVision combines industry-leading technologies to deliver powerful and unique enterprise-wide solutions. InfoVison encourages an open and frank atmosphere for discussion of problems, complaints, suggestions and questions. Through a comprehensive program of ethical and professional accountabilities, the company insists that its employees must "walk the talk." Although it's a technology company, its mission doesn't mention technology. "Our company is all about relationships with our team members, our customers and with other companies whose products we represent," company president Greg Aker says. InfoVision is so customer-service oriented that its senior technicians are the ones who answer customer questions.

Morningstar Storage Centers - Charlotte, NC

With 21 years experience, 20,000 tenants, 50 locations and 182 employees, Morningstar understands the term customer service fully. It uses site-based management in its 50 locations, asking local personnel to treat their operation as if they owned that location. The company receives more than 800 completed customer satisfaction surveys each year, with an average rating of 9.6 on a 10 point scale over the last five years. Corporate policy is to donate 5 percent of all rental locations to non-profit organizations, which last year equaled more than 900 units and close to $1 million in rent.

Allvac - Monroe, NC Allvac

Selected for its 45-year commitment to quality product and high standards. A manufacturer of high performance titanium product and nickel superalloys for aerospace, biomedical defense and power generation, Allvac has multiple mechanisms in place for conflict resolution and for counsel on ethics issues. "We reinforce our commitment to ethics routinely - it is built into our business," said President Tom Williams. "Ethics is as natural and expected in the workplace as daily shipments." A strong corporate citizen, Allvac focuses many company hours and more company dollars on the United Way, encouraging time and donations from its employees.

Medcath Partners - Charlotte, NC

Headquartered in Charlotte, with facilities in six additional states (Arizona, Arkansas, California, New Mexico, Ohio and Texas) Medcath has both cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons to deliver patient-focused healthcare to patients. This physician-partner structure empowers the physicians by enabling them to be involved in developing a heart hospital or diagnostic and therapeutic facility. That relationship allows physicians to share ideas for new and better ways of caring for patients. The result, according to patient surveys, is greater patient satisfaction and superior clinical outcomes. In addition to its healthcare delivery model, this company attempts to raise industry standards with focus on employees. It features a comprehensive education program, strong code of ethics and continued support. According to company officials, the staff is the company's greatest asset.