For a woman-owned small business to survive, it takes perseverance, talent and consistency.

And those traits were cited Thursday at Five Stones Research’s 20th anniversary celebration.

“We’re saluting the Greens for creating a climate and environment of consistency,” said Rex Vaughn, chair of the Madison County Commission. “You’re a great hub for our community (in) that your leadership comes here and stays.”

For CEO and owner Joni Green, the consistency isn’t just with Five Stones. It’s also, ironically, with the facility on Wynn Drive.

“I worked here for Madison Research,” she said. “I had a small office in the back. Now, I’ve got a big office in the front.”

Green, who founded the company with her husband Tony in 2006, thanked their employees and customers for helping the company in its success over the last 20 years.

“It goes by in a flash from when we started,” she said. “One of the things I really love is that everyone isn’t afraid to speak their minds. I don’t always agree, but we make a decision and move on.”

She said Five Stones was started to fill a vacuum among the city’s defense contractors.

“It was at a time when Morgan Research had just sold,” Green said. “There was a void for woman-owned businesses. So, we stepped up.”

Five Stones Research is a Native American, Woman-Owned Small Business which provides engineering and test support services, information management and IT support services, and program management support services.

“It’s been a pretty remarkable journey,” said company President Steve Willhelm. “Today is about recognizing the friendship and relationships over the last 20 years.”

Mayor Tommy Battle recognized the company as an integral part of the growth of Cummings Research Park, the second-largest research park in the country and fourth-largest in the world.

“Over these 20 years, we watched the business grow and this is what we planned with Cummings Research Park – bringing the best and the brightest,” he said.

Jami Peyton, chair of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, said the entrepreneurial couple are honoring a “commitment to serve something bigger than themselves.”

“What makes this anniversary special is the work you’ve put into it, the people you’re invested in, and the service you provide your customers,” she said. “Five Stones’ success is a reflection of talent and entrepreneurial spirit.”