Our History
About Us: Our History
Billy Gray's Legacy
Atlas Surveying was founded in 2004 by Billy Gray, a visionary leader who built the company on principles of integrity, excellence, and client service. Billy's commitment to precision and innovation established Atlas as a trusted name in land surveying across the Southeast. In 2023, we lost our founder and friend, but his values and vision continue to guide every project we undertake.
Today, Billy's family carries forward his legacy, ensuring that Atlas Surveying remains true to its founding principles while embracing modern technology and expanding our capabilities to better serve our clients.
Our Journey
From humble beginnings to regional leadership in land surveying
1 Truck, 2 Employees
In 2004, Billy Gray had dreams of starting his own land surveying company and set his dreams in motion to make them a reality. With one perspective client and one orange truck, Billy Gray and Keith Burns became Atlas Surveying, Inc.'s first survey crew. Despite their humble beginnings, Billy and Keith persevered over the next four years, believing in each other and their mutual vision. The pair worked long hours, took on every project that presented itself, and maintained passion for their profession.
3 Trucks, 12 Employees
In four years, Atlas Surveying had tripled in size and was completing projects throughout the Hilton Head Island/Savannah area. Growing the company and educating new employees in the surveying profession remained their goal.
When the recession of 2008 occurred, many large construction projects came to a halt. The lack of available work and job opportunities led to incredibly difficult decisions. Atlas's staff was drastically reduced and leadership determined it was time for a new business plan. Despite the setbacks, Atlas was able to endure the recession.
3 Trucks, 6 Employees
Atlas's sole focus was rebuilding the business to what it had once been. The business plan went in a new direction: to offer the utmost professionalism in every aspect of our enterprise. We would distinguish ourselves in the surveying field and hold ourselves to the highest standards.
7 Truck, 16 Staff
Atlas Surveying became a credible name in the Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head Island markets. Our client base consisted of reputable engineers, general contractors, and municipalities. Atlas now had five remarkable Crew Chiefs that were the heart of the company. To create room for these employees to grow in their careers, we shifted gears once again. Toward the end of 2014, with business growth at an all-time high, those Crew Chiefs were now on a path to becoming leaders within the company, teaching and mentoring a new generation of surveyors with enthusiasm and integrity.
76 trucks, 163 employees, 4 locations
From modest beginnings, we are overcome with pride with the team we have built. Atlas Surveying may be associated with orange trucks, Billy, or Keith, but Atlas is each one of our employees. They are the drive behind our entire operation and our priority in all we do. We are the Atlas family, and we are on this journey together.
The Values That Built Us
These are the same principles that guided Billy Gray in 2004 — and they continue to shape Atlas Surveying today
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Integrity First
We believe in doing the right thing, every time. Honesty, accountability, and transparency are the foundation of every project and every client relationship.
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Precision with Purpose
Surveying is more than measurements — it’s trust in every detail. We deliver accurate, reliable data with the technical skill and diligence our clients count on.
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People Over Everything
From clients to coworkers, we prioritize people. We invest in career growth, strong communication, and partnerships built on respect and responsiveness.
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Built to Evolve
We embrace innovation and change. Whether it’s technology, training, or new markets, we’re committed to growing smarter — without compromising what we stand for.
Join Our Ongoing Journey
Atlas Surveying is more than a company — it’s a team built on trust, craftsmanship, and shared purpose. As we honor the legacy of our founder and embrace the future, we invite you to be part of what comes next.
Whether you’re looking for a reliable surveying partner or a meaningful career path, there’s a place for you here.