Advanced Technology Services, Inc. (ATS) has been named a 2026 US Best Managed Company, marking the sixth consecutive year the industrial services firm has received the designation. The award is sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal and recognizes private U.S. companies that demonstrate excellence across strategy, execution, culture, and governance.
What the award measures
The Best Managed Companies program evaluates applicants on four criteria: strategic planning and execution, commitment to people, financial performance, and governance. A panel of independent judges selects honorees from private companies with at least $250 million in revenue. This year's class is noted for making "bold investments in digital transformation, including AI capabilities," according to the program's announcement.
ATS also earned Gold Honoree status, which applies to companies recognized for four to six consecutive years. The designation reflects consistent achievement and ongoing development.
Company background
Founded in 1985 with 32 employees, ATS now supports over 1,400 customer manufacturing sites across the United States, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. The company provides industrial maintenance, technology, and parts services. Its operational focus is on safety, people, processes, and technologies to help manufacturers improve productivity and reliability.
Jeff Owens, CEO of ATS, said in the announcement that the recognition reflects "the discipline behind how ATS is led and operated" — specifically in safety prioritization, team leadership, process execution, and technology application.
Broader context
The Best Managed Companies program operates in more than 46 countries. U.S. designees join a global ecosystem of honorees. The program is separate from other corporate awards and focuses specifically on privately held companies.
Bottom line
For IT and operations professionals evaluating industrial service partners, ATS's sustained recognition indicates consistent organizational practices rather than a one-time achievement. The company's emphasis on digital transformation and AI investments aligns with broader manufacturing trends toward predictive maintenance and operational visibility.