2012 Winners

"It's hard for for the average person to imagine just how much energy is used by our whole world in one year and where exactly this energy comes from," she wrote in her essay.

"They were ventures we tried and now we have narrowed it down to two facets which have worked well for us: mining and exploration," Pronovost said.

"It's all about timing and understanding what are the lead indicators that give you the insight as to whether you should shut it down or turn it up," Lipic said.

"What we really bring to Sault Ste. Marie is we're helping to create that diversity. We're helping to create a welcoming community and we're helping with economic growth," said Rains.

"I had established relationships with the suppliers and the native community in the region and there wasn't a similar store anywhere in the area," she said.

Growing on its history of fine craftsmanship, Three H established a reputation of quality and reliability in the office furniture market.

"But it's a few champions out there, leaders out there that have invested in us and that saw that vision, so that's what I've been grateful for."

"I look at things from the perspective of, how do we find synergies to better compete at the regional and national level?"

"They're passionate at developing new products and innovative solutions and they strive for perfection, and it makes us, I think, stand out as a distinct manufacturing company."

"A good work environment should not only be functional, but lifts your spirits and makes you feel good about spending your day there."