Atomatic Mechanical Services: Eight Decades of Building Comfort and Community
The end of World War II marked a turning point in American history, spurring a period of rebuilding, an economic boom and post-war homeownership. It was also the time when modern heating and air conditioning systems began to move from luxury to necessity.
Founded in 1945, Atomatic Mechanical Services was born into that era of opportunity with a simple promise that still defines the company today: “We Make People Comfortable.” Originally focused solely on residential work, Atomatic steadily evolved as new owners expanded its capabilities, services and reach. Today, the company operates four divisions — construction, service, controls and residential — supporting projects across healthcare, data centers, industrial facilities, offices and educational institutions. In 2025, Atomatic continued their growth with the launch of a new commercial plumbing group.
With approximately 220 employees, Atomatic has built a reputation for technical expertise and reliability. Its service division remains a cornerstone of the business, providing 24/7 emergency response, maintenance and repairs. Over the past four years, the construction side of the company has seen particularly strong growth, fueled by complex, large-scale projects that leverage the company’s full range of capabilities.
Leadership at Atomatic reflects deep roots in the trades. Steve Stachorek, CEO and President, has been with the company for 12 years, noting his father’s experience as a pipefitter foreman shaped his perspective early on.
“Hearing some of his daily struggles on the job, he instilled in me how important the field team really is,” Stachorek said. “Taking care of them, getting the answers they need, treating them with a lot of respect — that’s important, because without them, we’re nothing.”
Bryan O’Neill, Vice President of Construction, joined Atomatic four years ago and also credits family influence for his path into the industry. His grandfather was a pipefitter, sparking an early interest that eventually led him into leadership.
“People-focus is one of our core values,” O’Neill said. “I’ve always felt it’s important to build good relationships with people, whether it’s personal or work-related, instead of chasing the next job. We pride ourselves on building those relationships with our customers.”
That people-first mindset shows up on the jobsite. Recent projects include a clean room installation for a drug delivery device solutions provider, at a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Vernon Hills. The project required roughly half a million pounds of ductwork, ISO 9000-certified processes and close coordination with Atomatic’s controls division to implement precise temperature systems throughout the facility.
Another notable project is Forrestal Elementary School at Naval Station Great Lakes, a brand-new school scheduled to open in 2026. Atomatic contributed to the project’s sustainable design by installing a geothermal heating and cooling system with integrated temperature controls, supporting long-term energy efficiency.
Atomatic is also focused on the future of the workforce. Through participation in the Heavy Metal Summer Experience with Sheet Metal Werks, the company hosts high school students each summer for tours and hands-on activities.
“It’s been challenging getting younger folks interested in the industry, but I do feel we’re starting to take a turn in the right direction,” O’Neill said. “It’s been something fun to be involved with because we get to show them you can really make a nice career out of the trades.”
Outside of work, Stachorek and O’Neill share another passion — music. Both are members of Superheat, a rock-inspired band made up of area construction industry professionals. The group frequently performs at local charity fundraisers and has helped raise more than $10 million for organizations including Gilda’s Club, Homes for Heroes, and Music Will.
That same sense of purpose and connection carries into Atomatic’s day-to-day work. Eighty years after its founding, Atomatic Mechanical Services continues to balance growth, craftsmanship and community — staying true to its original mission while building for the future.