Every day we clean up a little more of the U.S.,” says Tom Murphy, founder of LT Environmental Inc. (LTE).
Based in Arvada, Colo., the environmental engineering and remediation firm helps oil and gas companies, manufacturers, real estate developers and property owners meet regulations and clean up contaminated properties. “Our work enables clients to maintain normal, environmentally safe operations and benefits communities,” Murphy says. “We’re helping the U.S. economy grow in an environmentally responsible way.”
Launched in 1992, LTE has been achieving strong growth since 2006, which Murphy partly chalks up to a new matrix structure that allows the company to serve clients more efficiently. Today LTE generates more than $20 million in annual revenue, has more than 110 employees and maintains offices in Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, and Florida as well as Colorado.
Initially LTE’s core business was soil and groundwater cleanup, but in recent years the company has expanded into safety, air, asbestos, water treatment, stormwater control and other specialized services. “This enables us to provide a broader range of job opportunities — and an environment where younger employees can advance through the ranks,” Murphy says.
Indeed, staff development is a priority at LTE. For example, the company has developed performance metrics that help employees see not only how well they serve clients but also how both they and the company are growing. “The metrics give employees both internal goals and recognition for meeting those goals,” Murphy explains. “This is really important because people don’t just want a paycheck — they want to contribute, to be part of the system.”