Syblon Reid marks 50 years

After working as employees for a contractor in Washington, John Reid and Ray Syblon decided they were a good fit and went into the heavy civil construction business together.John Reid had a keen financial and engineering sense and Ray Syblon had a talent for running operations. For the first 15 years, the two men worked out in the field together by day and estimated future projects at night sitting at Reid's kitchen table.The early years of the company were not easy. Posed with financial and geographical challenges for the newly formed partnership, the two men knew they had a big challenge ahead that would require hard work, faith in the business, and trust in each other to make their dream successful - one job at a time.Reid and Syblon weren't the only team members in the early days of the company. Their original company organization consisted of a carpenter foreman, drag line operator, iron worker foreman and Reid's wife, Jean, who faithfully managed the finances and contract administration.Up until the early 1970s, Syblon Reid traveled throughout the west building water related projects, primarily for the Bureau of Reclamation.In 1970 Syblon received a bid award for constructing the first mile of the Folsom South Canal at Nimbus Dam in Folsom.Little did they know at the time that this project was the pivotal beginning of a successful company.In 1972, after Ray Syblon retired, John Reid's son, Don, joined the team as a full-time employee after graduating from Oregon State University with a civil engineering degree.The following year Syblon Reid purchased a parcel of land in Folsom and built their current headquarters.By 1985 a complete shop and equipment yard was constructed.From the 70s through today Syblon Reid has grown steadily to reach an annual volume of $30 million.In 1990, Don Reid was appointed president of the company and worked diligently to expand Syblon Reid's construction services in water, land, heavy infrastructure and design-build-delivery.Today, in the midst of Syblon Reid's 50th year in business, the company thrives on difficult and unique projects throughout California and western Nevada that require construction knowledge and excellent construction management skills.