Founded in 1981 by George and Molly Greene, General Engineering Laboratories (GEL) began with a small group of dedicated employees and a simple but powerful philosophy: solve problems and treat people well. Guided by faith, vision, and hard work, that philosophy laid the foundation for more than four decades of growth and service.
“When someone asked if we could help, our answer was simply, ‘yes.’ That was and still is the culture of GEL. Meeting the needs of the client —That was our definition of quality.”
George Greene III, PE, PhD
Founder & Former CEO
In 2001, Jim and Kathy Stelling and GEL’s Chief Financial Officer, Doug Earnst, purchased the company from the Greenes, who went on to establish Water Mission, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safe water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions worldwide. The GEL Group is proud to continue supporting Water Mission’s humanitarian efforts as part of our broader commitment to service.
Today, The GEL Group proudly celebrates 45 years of supporting clients in the environmental and engineering fields. What began as a focused analytical services firm has evolved into a diversified organization providing analytical testing, environmental consulting, civil engineering and surveying, and subsurface utility engineering (SUE). With more than 350 employees across 12 offices in the United States, GEL operates through GEL Laboratories, LLC; GEL Engineering, LLC; and GEL Solutions, LLC, along with our sister laboratory, Cape Fear Analytical, LLC.
Throughout its history, GEL has grown alongside its clients by continually expanding technical capabilities and embracing innovation. From early advancements in environmental consulting and field services to specialized expertise in radiochemistry, industrial hygiene, and surveying, our teams bring a consultative approach, accuracy, and integrity to every project, regardless of size or complexity.
At the core of GEL’s success are its people and values. Our Core Purpose is clear: To improve the quality of life of this and future generations by helping people protect and be good stewards of our Environment and Natural Resources. That purpose guides our work each day and shapes our commitment to safety, quality service, responsiveness, and respect. As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our sincere gratitude to our employees, clients, and partners and look forward to continuing to solve complex challenges and serve our communities for many more years.
Mac Hodgson, CFA
President and Chief Executive Officer