Allied Industries, Inc.

North Hollywood, CA

The Challenge
Ernie Gutierrez has never been the sort of person to let a personal "challenge" dampen his potential for success. In fact, long before he was CEO of Allied Industries, Inc., which, today, is a recognized leader in environmental remediation, engineering and construction services, Ernie was a color-blind painter with a "just do it" sort of attitude. Notably, he was also a natural-born entrepreneur, always embracing opportunities to grow, learn and follow promising, new directions. That's how, one day, he found himself studying up on the dangers of lead paint - a big issue back in the 1980s. Practically overnight, Ernie became a self-made expert on the topic, launched Allied Industries, and got to work on aggressively shaping his passion into a highly esteemed, reliable business. Driven and hardworking, Ernie achieved impressive goals. Yet like many entrepreneurs, he found that growing his company in smart, sustainable ways wasn't easy. In addition, Ernie recognized that his leadership style needed some refinement. He knew he could count on the support of his brother, Fernando, who served and still is the company's COO today. However, the brothers recognized that a more systematic approach to growth would require an equally serious business-management system backed by better leadership skills.

The Solution
In 2007, a friend of the Gutierrez brothers who was using the MAP Management SystemTM in his own business invited both Ernie and Fernando to one of his company's Vital Factors® meetings - a core element within the MAP Management System. The brothers were so impressed that they immediately signed up for MAP's 2.5-day workshop and then began implementing the management system. The results were immediate, specifically strengthening communication and alignment among the entire staff, focusing on the "vital few" goals instead of the trivial many, and implementing accountability for all, including both brothers. Of note, one of MAP's senior consultants played a big role in facilitating a fresh change at Allied Industries. When Ernie Gutierrez heard him speak at a Latin Business Association event, he specifically asked MAP to assign this business coach to Allied Industries. His straight-shooter approach, coupled with high level of integrity and a commitment to implementing the MAP system fairly and efficiently made MAP's consultant the "right man for the job," Ernie says. He truly cares, and that's what makes his coaching so unique. Today, this consultant is way more than just a facilitator or consultant at Allied Industries - he's become a trusted friend.

The Results
Since Allied Industries adopted the MAP System, the company has experienced a wide range of associated benefits and rewards. This, backed by the vision and commitment of its leadership to aggressively broaden its services, source new business and develop a strong workplace culture, has produced exceptional growth. Additionally, the company is also dedicated to "paying it forward" by giving back to local communities, organizations and non-profits. All these efforts and networks are paying off... Allied Industries is currently one of the fastest growing, award-winning, Hispanic-owned companies in the United States. It now operates in 7 locations throughout four states and plans to open more offices soon. With business growing rapidly - despite a down economy - Allied Industries' has been a net creator of jobs. Staffing levels have gone from about 80 to 300 employees in just four years. Sales have grown from about $5 million in 2007 to nearly $50 million today. As they look toward the future, Ernie and Fernando are managing an organization that's profitable and also sustainable, thanks to a leadership style and management system that drive individual accountability and cultivate a serious commitment to team goals. Ultimately, at the heart of that success is Allied Industries' dedication to strong vision, accountable leadership, an unmatched work ethic and the strategic building of key processes and infrastructure that make this vision a reality.