Jeff Heath
Marketing Coordinator
Business Interiors of Idaho

When Jeff Heath claims he grew up in the family business, it’s not an exaggeration. His mother Betty started bringing him to work at Business Interiors of Idaho when he was a few weeks old. While the Heaths’ work ethic is evident, and a primary reason their Boise-based company will celebrate its 30-year anniversary in 2015, they also note the significant role Gowen Field has played in their success.

“One thing the government does, especially military installments, is give preference to vendors that are women-owned and small businesses,” describes Heath. Business Interiors of Idaho meets both of those classifications.

The experience with Gowen Field and its preferred status has helped Business Interiors of Idaho launch a government-focused vertical for its business. The company also serves the Boise VA Medical Center and other Idaho military operations. “When the government does give preference for jobs like that, it’s really beneficial for us and a lot of other small, family-owned businesses,” adds Heath.

Heath believes the type of people and talent Gowen Field brings to the region provides tremendous contributions to its workforce and the culture of Boise.“It provides a lot of local jobs, and it brings a lot of new people that are on military assignment to Boise,” notes Heath.

Heath is actively involved in several Boise Chamber of Commerce committees that discuss the opportunities of developing and maintaining a properly educated workforce for Boise businesses and others looking to relocate or expand in the Treasure Valley. “Military installations are a great way to do that. They provide training and education through the GI bill.”

Heath describes several ties to the base through relatives and close friends — one who considers his love for Boise and the Air National Guard a perfect mix, which is only made possible by Gowen Field. 

“Not only does Gowen provide jobs and income for businesses like us, but Guardsmen who want to be able to participate in Air Guard activities can still live in an amazing place where they can mountain bike, ski on the weekends, fly-fish and do their training once a month,” notes Heath. “I think it’s a really great family community where people can live and thrive.”

“As a citizen, I think it’s pretty cool to see military jets. It’s a pretty impressive, powerful display to show what people are capable of.”