Pye-Barker celebrates 80-year milestone

ATLANTA—Pye-Barker Fire & Safety is marking its 80th anniversary in 2026, highlighting eight decades of growth from a regional fire protection supplier into one of the largest fully integrated fire, life safety and security services providers in the United States.

Founded in 1946 in Atlanta by two Georgia Institute of Technology graduates, the company now operates more than 250 locations across 47 states with more than 9,000 employees.

Pye-Barker plans to commemorate the milestone during the May 31 NASCAR race in Nashville, Tenn., as part of its partnership with LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. Driver John Hunter Nemechek’s No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE will feature a retro-themed wrap recognizing the anniversary and displaying the names of the company’s workforce.

In addition, the company has launched an “80 for 80” initiative, with branches committing to at least 80 community service efforts nationwide throughout the year.

“I am humbled by Pye-Barker’s impact on communities across the U.S. over the last 80 years,” said CEO Bart Proctor. “We’ve been privileged to serve countless customers, safeguard thousands of livelihoods and protect millions of lives.”

Pye-Barker’s growth has been driven in large part by acquisitions, with more than 200 companies added over time to expand its geographic footprint and service capabilities.

The company also pointed to several internal and community-focused initiatives tied to its growth strategy, including its ALL In (Achieving Lasting Legacy Incentive) ownership program, which it said makes Pye-Barker the largest employee-owned company in the fire and life safety sector. Other efforts include its What Matters community program - which supports employees, local communities and industry professionals - and a 2026 partnership with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Pye-Barker has also received Great Place to Work certification and has been included on the Inc. 5000 list of fast-growing private companies.

“Eighty years in, our team is only just getting started,” Proctor said. “I'm energized by the momentum we've built and inspired by our Pye-Barker family of certified technicians, fire and security experts, leaders, and support teams who make it possible to serve thousands of customers every day. As we look forward to the next 80 years, we see tremendous opportunity for continued growth and the ability to deliver even better full-service life safety solutions for our customers."

Photo courtesy of Pye-Barker Fire & Safety