From Lab Equipment Repair to Pioneering Water Industry Solutions
In 1978, biologist, chemist, and electronics technician Michael G. Link embarked on a journey to address a critical need for laboratory equipment repair in Nashville, Tennessee. Together with his wife, he founded Labtronix, which would later evolve into LabtronX, a pioneering force in the water and wastewater treatment industry.
Labtronix initially found work at Vanderbilt University, providing essential repair services for student and research equipment. While Michael made a living, his dream of owning a thriving company remained out of reach. However, Labtronix began laying the foundation for its future by venturing into lab equipment used at water and wastewater treatment plants during the early 1980s.
Labtronix journey took a significant turn when Michael and his son, Eric, noticed an annual calibration need at wastewater treatment plants. What started as routine calibrations quickly evolved into a unique service offering. Customers often requested assistance with other equipment during visits, leading to the development of the pioneering Accuracy Assurance Program—a testament to LabtronX’s commitment to addressing identified needs.
Labtronix transitioned into LabtronX to avoid naming rights and establish its first website. Eric Link took over as CEO and focused the company exclusively on delivering onsite maintenance, calibration, and repair services to water and wastewater treatment plants across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Southern Ohio.
Eric bought the company from his father in 2012 and continued to grow LabtronX. Today, the company covers many states with a fleet of skilled technicians. LabtronX’s onsite annual, semi-annual, and quarterly calibration and maintenance program ensures the efficient operation of water and wastewater treatment plants. In addition to these essential services, LabtronX provides new laboratory equipment and supplies tailored to the water industry’s needs, further solidifying its reputation as a comprehensive solutions provide
In 2024, Adrien and Shannon Pratt purchased the company from Eric and they plan to continue with the legacy the Links began.
Before life at LabtronX, Shannon gained lots of experience in the field. She began her career in the water sector in 2001. She spent 3 years working in environmental labs as a chemist. She then worked for the State of Tennessee at their Fleming Training Center for 10 years, where she trained operators before they sat for their certification exam and contributed to the continuing education of certified operators. Shannon was instrumental in the State’s Guidance documents on the 40 CFR 135 QA/QC Method Update. In 2014, she left the state to work as a Lab Analyst for a municipality and was able to implement their QA/QC system. While working at the wastewater treatment plant, she became a certified Grade 4 wastewater operator In early 2016, Shannon began working for LabtronX as the Quality Manager. In this role, she maintained documentation on calibrations and prepared Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the service technicians. Her ability to grow the company is a prime example of the qualities that led her to her additional position as Office Manager.
Adrien Pratt joined LabtronX in 2012 as a Technician. Adrien became the Operations Manager in 2018. He nourished the growth and development of the technicians. Adrien created a cohesive and experienced service department in which every member knows their duties and how to perform them.
LabtronX delivers unscheduled installation and repair work, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The company’s dedication to innovation and addressing customer needs remains at the core of its identity, embodying its founder’s entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking vision, Michael G. Link.
LabtronX’s remarkable journey from its founding by Michael G. Link to its current status as a leading provider of water industry solutions is a testament to its commitment to addressing customer needs and delivering excellence. With a rich history of innovation and service, LabtronX plans to continue to grow and impact the industry.
Explore our range of services and discover how LabtronX can support your water and wastewater treatment needs.
