Alliance Expands Commitment to Employees and Customers

Alliance is not just another company in the HVAC and electrical services industry. Founded in 2010 by brothers Jason and Shaun Patnaude, the business has evolved into a thriving service-centric enterprise with over 250 employees. This impressive growth—driven by strategic partnerships and acquisitions—reflects a careful balance between expansion and a deep commitment to employees, company culture, customers, and the communities it serves. 

Alliance is now the largest and most trusted mechanical contractor in New England. 

From its humble beginnings with just nine employees, Alliance now operates across five branches—Plattsburgh, NY, Essex Junction and Rutland, VT, West Lebanon and Bow, NH—and has plans for further growth while staying true to its core values of opportunity and support. 

Renee Lee, who joined Alliance as a dispatcher in 2014, exemplifies this commitment to internal growth. Now the VP of Operations in North Clarendon, she has risen through the ranks over the past six years. “The opportunities for growth here are unparalleled,” she notes, underscoring the company’s dedication to promoting from within. 

A significant factor in Alliance’s success has been its strategic approach to partnerships and acquisitions. In 2023, the company was acquired by NexCore, a private equity HVAC platform backed by Trinity Hunt Partners. 

“With Trinity Hunt’s support, we are committed to strengthening the well-established market position and exceptional service reputation that Alliance is known for,” said Jason Patnaude, president of Alliance. “We intentionally chose a partner with extensive experience in growing commercial services businesses—one that shares our core values and respects our team and customers.” 

Under Nexcore’s guidance, Alliance has acquired companies such as Pratt & Smith Electrical Contractors, Avonda Air Systems, and Rycandon Mechanical, enhancing its service offerings while upholding its core values. “We are currently focused on acquisition opportunities in the New England region, seeking entrepreneurial leaders who share our values,” Patnaude adds. This strategy allows Alliance to leverage relationships to continue expanding its capabilities and service areas. 

Prior to joining Alliance, Pratt & Smith worked closely with Jason and his team for over a decade as their electrical subcontractor. “Merging with Alliance in 2023 has enabled us to provide even greater value and a broader range of services to our common clients in the HVAC industry,” said Dan Pratt. “Additionally, Alliance’s culture is one that has allowed our employees to grow professionally.”   

At its core, Alliance’s culture significantly contributes to its success. The atmosphere fosters long-standing relationships among employees, including father-son pairs, siblings, and multi-generational workers, creating a tight-knit community where individuals feel a sense of belonging. This same commitment to relationships extends to customers, as Alliance aims to be a long-term partner in their success. Alliance has built these lasting partnerships through its technical expertise, responsiveness, customer satisfaction, and most importantly, its integrity. 

“What sets our acquisitions apart is our focus on people,” Patnaude
explains. “We ensure new employees feel welcomed and integrated into our family-oriented culture. It’s about creating a space where they feel at home, not changing who they are.” This people-first approach enriches the company’s culture and skillset, ensuring that acquisitions enhance rather than dilute Alliance’s identity. 

Gary Greeno, a service technician who has been with Alliance for over a decade, reflects on the company’s culture: “The Alliance group has a family feel. That’s one of the things I love about it the most: the people I work with. In my line of work, all companies do the same thing, so it comes down to who you work with. I hope the new folks we bring on board will feel the same.” 

Currently mentoring an apprentice, Greeno
emphasizes the vital role of the apprenticeship program in the company’s future. “Apprentices are essential for us, especially as many experienced workers are nearing retirement. The talent pool is limited, and we need enthusiastic young individuals eager to learn the trade. This program is a fantastic initiative that allows us to build a future workforce from within.” 

Alliance addresses the skilled labor shortage by partnering with local trade schools to offer paid apprenticeships in HVAC, electrical, and control systems. These opportunities not only fill workforce gaps but also pave the way for long-term careers for young talent. 

“Our program allows us to cultivate talent internally, ensuring we employ the best individuals to provide the highest quality service,” Patnaude
explains. “It gives young people the chance to start meaningful careers without the barriers of traditional trade schools.” This approach has led to a strong, loyal workforce, with a retention rate of seven out of ten—remarkable in an industry known for high turnover. 

Alliance’s commitment to employee engagement extends beyond apprenticeships. The company nurtures a supportive environment through various activities, quarterly bonuses, and clear career advancement opportunities. “We go above and beyond when it comes to recognizing our employees,” Greeno
notes. “Our employee engagement committee actively finds ways to foster connections among staff and acknowledge years of service and achievements.” 

“Alliance has been the driving force behind my career,” Lee added. “From day one, they’ve invested in my growth, pairing me with mentors who pushed me to sharpen my skills and take on new responsibilities. Climbing the ranks here has been challenging and incredibly rewarding, thanks to a team that believes in building up leaders from within. I’m proud of how far I’ve come with their support.”   

Looking ahead, Alliance shows no signs of slowing down. With plans for future acquisitions and geographic expansion, particularly east of the Northeast, the company continues to grow while staying true to its roots. Nexcore’s support enables Alliance to manage administrative tasks such as HR, insurance, and fleet management, allowing leaders to concentrate on their core strengths—business growth and leadership development. 

For business leaders seeking to grow through strategic partnerships and acquisitions, Alliance offers a compelling model for success. By remaining true to its values, investing in people, and letting relationships drive growth, Alliance has positioned itself as a leader in the HVAC and electrical services industry. As it continues to expand, the company remains committed to nurturing leadership from within, ensuring that its mission thrives. This dedication to fostering an inclusive culture allows new partnerships and employees to seamlessly integrate into a community that values collaboration, shared success, and the development of future leaders.