Make Your Mark: How Northern Kentucky University Alumni Partners Inspired New Generation

Jan. 26, 2010 - PRLog -- Walton, KY: Mike Murphy and Mark Catton knew they had their work cut out for them when they decided to partner in 1983 to form MurphyCatton, an exhibition fabrication firm in Northern Kentucky.  “A theatre major and a philosophy major running a business isn’t a good combination,” Mark said.  Yet he proved himself wrong as the company is not only surviving, but thriving even after this tumultuous year and is now featured in Northern Kentucky University’s publication, “Lessons in Entrepreneurship.”  

The book celebrates Northern Kentucky graduates who have become successful entrepreneurs and leaders in the Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati areas.  Not only focusing on each individual’s current accomplishments with their business, every story takes the reader through their journey and the lessons they’ve encountered along the way.  With a collection of such inspiring stories, it was no surprise when both Mike and Mark were chosen to be a part of it.

Mike and Mark share their journey through childhood, college, how they met and brought MurphyCatton into existence and, using their Kentucky work ethic, turned it into a success, becoming an inspiration to those who are taking their first steps at Northern Kentucky University (NKU).  Starting out with only a two car garage, one client and a strong partnership, the company has grown to a work force of over 30 employees and a portfolio showcasing exhibits at some of the top museums in the country.  

Mike’s and Mark’s leadership has taken the company from hardly anything to one of the top players in the exhibit fabrication industry.  Yet, throughout the past 25 years plus, Mike and Mark have proven their success by building core values into the operation of the business and running the business as if it was one big family.  By paying close attention to every detail of every project to the highest possible quality craftsmanship and collaboration, MurphyCatton has proven that quality always wins over quantity.  Though they started with small town beginnings, they have developed MurphyCatton into a nationally competing, multi-million dollar firm.

For more on MurphyCatton visit http://www.murphycatton.com and see what we’ve been up to for the past 25 plus years!

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MurphyCatton is a custom fabrication firm focused on building unforgettable environments and exhibitions. Our clients include museums, children's museums, corporate spaces, zoos and aquariums, churches as well as science, nature, & visitor centers.