What started in 2000 as a mission to help companies navigate the complexities of environmental compliance has evolved into a partnership-driven approach that ensures success for both clients and the environment.
For CEO Chris LeMay, Alliance Technical Group’s impact is not just about regulatory adherence – it’s about making a real difference.
“It’s about believing in what we’re doing and that we’re making a difference.”
“We have over 10,000 clients for whom sustainability matters. They want to be good stewards and protect the environment,” LeMay tells The CEO Magazine.
“And they want to make sure that their data is accurate for the services they’re contracting us to do so they can make informed decisions.
“So, for us, it’s about believing in what we’re doing and that we’re making a difference.”
“It’s truly inspiring to know that what we do makes a real difference, and we’re not just collecting a paycheck.”
With a broad scope of expertise that spans air, water, oil and gas, waste and natural resources, Alliance provides testing, monitoring, laboratory analysis and regulatory consulting to guide clients along their compliance journey.
By combining industry-leading expertise, a strong client support model and tech enabled methods and processes, the company ensures that businesses remain ahead of evolving environmental regulations.
A formula for success
LeMay attributes the company’s success not only to its exceptional team but also to the clients who prioritize compliance and environmental responsibility.
“Our clients prioritize compliance and take a proactive approach to risk management,” he says. “They trust us because they want to do the right thing, and we’re here to provide the expertise and solutions to help them achieve that with confidence.”
A key element of Alliance’s culture is fostering employee engagement.
“Every time I host a town hall, the most enthusiasm comes from people eager to understand how they can make a real impact,” he says. “Through our work in environmental testing and monitoring, we’re not just ensuring compliance – we’re actively contributing to a cleaner, safer world.
“It’s truly inspiring to know that what we do makes a real difference, and we’re not just collecting a paycheck.”
Growth and expansion
LeMay, a chemical engineer by trade, entered the industry when air testing was an underserved market. Frustrated with the lack of expertise and service quality, he founded Alliance with a vision to deliver unparalleled environmental solutions.
With just two employees and a handful of clients, the company’s early years were marked by steady growth.
“It took us a year to add a third employee, and three years to become a US$1 million service, which was unbelievable for us,” LeMay recalls. “Then we said, ‘OK, can we get to US$2 million?’”
From 2012–2016, the company made strategic investments in new equipment, locations and talent, growing from 20 employees to 50. Today, Alliance has over 1850 employees, more than 50 locations and a fleet of over 150 mobile laboratories operating across North America.
“Our clients see us as true partners, relying on our expertise to drive innovation and deliver meaningful results.”
Despite its size, Alliance remains rooted in a culture of opportunity and performance.
“At our company, success isn’t determined by tenure or titles, it’s driven by results,” LeMay says. “Those who contribute to sales earn promotions and greater opportunities, regardless of experience.
“Additionally, we’ve committed 15 percent of our profits directly to our employees, not just the owners, reinforcing a culture where everyone shares in our success.”
Alliance’s success is also driven by strategic partnerships with clients. Many of its clients utilize multiple service lines, with 65 percent of revenue coming from companies purchasing more than one service.
“Our clients see us as true partners, relying on our expertise to drive innovation and deliver meaningful results,” LeMay notes.
“Whether in the lab, implementing automation or advancing AI, we work side by side with our clients, combining our strengths to deliver solutions that create lasting value.”
Celebrating success and looking ahead
For LeMay, the journey has been deeply fulfilling.
“This company has created incredible opportunities, giving people the training and support they need to grow. And right now, we’re seeing that vision come to life. We’re on a strong trajectory, staying true to our plan, and achieving our organic growth goals.”
“My job is to build a team and get out of the way and let them do their jobs.”
As Alliance continues to lead in environmental compliance, its commitment to its employees, clients and sustainability remains unwavering.
“My job is to build a team and get out of the way and let them do their jobs. Then celebrate the wins,” LeMay says. “You can have success, but you have to recognize the people making it a success.”
