About Environmental Hazards Services

Howard Varner

General Manager

Mr. Varner’s background in laboratory service spans almost 50 years, including over 30 years of management experience at Environmental Hazards Services. As General Manager, he provides strategic guidance and operational expertise across all departments, supporting the organization’s long-term success and growth.

Howard has been actively involved in AIHA Lab Accreditation Programs and has previously served on the Analytical Accreditation Board. He has also chaired the Environmental Lead Committee and Asbestos Registry Program and served on Virginia’s Regulatory Board for Asbestos, Lead, and Home Inspectors for 7 years. He is an active member and past board member of the Environmental Information Associations (EIA), and a long time board member of the Lead and Environmental Hazard Association (LEHA).

Howard is also a member of ASTM subcommittee D.22.12 on sampling and analysis of lead for exposure and risk assessment. He was also a contributor to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) “Brief guide to analytical methods for measuring lead in paint”.

He holds a Master’s Degree in Business and Public Administration with an emphasis in Environmental Management from Southeastern University in Washington, D.C., as well as a Bachelor of Science in Biology Education from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Julie Dickerson

Laboratory Director

Julie Dickerson serves as Laboratory Director, where she leads daily laboratory operations and collaborates closely with supervisors and cross-functional teams across business development, customer service, and administration. She provides strategic direction to drive operational excellence and ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality analytical services.

With more than 29 years of experience in analytical and inorganic chemistry, Julie brings extensive technical expertise along with a strong foundation in leadership, quality assurance, and laboratory management.

Julie holds an American Chemical Society–certified Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, with a minor in Mathematics, from Salisbury University. She is an active member of the Lead & Environmental Hazards Association and the Environmental Information Association. She has served on the AIHA Laboratory Accreditation Program nominating committee and was appointed to the Analytical Accreditation Board in 2025. Additionally, she is a member of the Virginia Water Environment Association Laboratory Practices Committee.

Candace Mason

Quality Manager

Candace Mason serves as Quality Manager, where she leads the implementation and continuous improvement of the laboratory’s quality management systems. She ensures regulatory compliance and oversees quality control processes to support the integrity and defensibility of laboratory data.

Her responsibilities include reviewing quality control data, maintaining quality assurance documentation, training staff, and managing corrective actions to uphold industry standards. She also maintains all laboratory accreditations, certifications, and licenses.

Candace began her career with EHS as a Metals Analyst, performing ICP-MS analysis of drinking water samples.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science, with a minor in Chemistry, from Virginia Commonwealth University, graduating cum laude.

Missy Kanode

Laboratory Support Supervisor

Missy brings over 30 years of environmental laboratory experience to EHS Laboratories. Her extensive understanding of laboratory operations and strong attention to detail allow her to effectively support both technical and account-related client needs.
In her current role, Missy manages the sample receiving team and oversees reporting activities, ensuring workflows are executed efficiently and in accordance with established procedures. Her involvement across these areas supports the accuracy, timeliness, and consistency of laboratory deliverables.

Missy also plays an active role in client relationship support, working closely with internal teams to resolve issues, streamline communication, and ensure project expectations are met. Her experience and commitment to service contribute to the high standards and reliability EHS Laboratories provides to its clients.

Tiffany Stone

Customer Service Supervisor

Since joining the laboratory in 2005, Tiffany has been instrumental in advancing the organization’s commitment to client satisfaction and service excellence. With extensive experience in customer relations and laboratory operations, she ensures that every client interaction reflects the laboratory’s high standards of quality, accuracy, and responsiveness.

Tiffany supports all pre- and post-analytical sample processing activities, ensuring that each step is performed and documented in accordance with established SOPs. She works collaboratively with both the Business Development and Laboratory teams to maintain efficient workflows, address challenges proactively, and continuously enhance the overall client experience.

Her dedication to fostering strong client relationships and operational efficiency continues to support the laboratory’s mission of providing reliable results and exceptional service. Tiffany is also an active member of the Environmental Information Association (EIA).

Johnny McElroy

Client Services and Business Development Specialist

Johnny began his career at Environmental Hazards Services (EHS Laboratories) in a customer service role, where he developed a strong foundation in client communication, project coordination, and laboratory workflow. Through this experience, he gained a comprehensive understanding of sample intake, reporting requirements, and the operational needs of both clients and laboratory personnel.

In his current role within sales and marketing, Johnny focuses on business development, client outreach, and supporting long-term client relationships. He works closely with consultants, contractors, and program managers to provide tailored analytical solutions, while clearly communicating pricing, turnaround times, and laboratory capabilities.

Drawing on his operational background, Johnny serves as a liaison between clients and laboratory teams, helping to align expectations, streamline communication, and ensure consistent service delivery. His combined experience supports EHS Laboratories’ commitment to responsive client service and reliable, high-quality analytical results. He is also an active member of the Environmental Information Association (EIA).

Tony Dee

Chemistry Lab Supervisor

Since joining EHS in 2008, Tony has become an integral part of the laboratory team. As Chemistry Lab Supervisor, he oversees a team of analysts and technicians, directing daily operations while supporting the development and maintenance of analytical methods and quality control programs.

In addition to his operational responsibilities, Tony provides the technical expertise necessary to maintain and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and manages the company’s in-house IT operations. His combined technical and operational knowledge ensures the reliability and efficiency of laboratory systems.

Tony holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Science from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Kathy Fletcher

Asbestos Lab Supervisor

Kathy Fletcher serves as Asbestos Laboratory Supervisor, where she leads a team of more than ten analysts and oversees the daily operations of the asbestos laboratory. With over 30 years of experience and a long-standing tenure at EHS, she plays a key role in ensuring quality assurance standards are met and sample turnaround times are consistently achieved.

In addition to managing laboratory workflow, Kathy enforces strict safety protocols and maintains a strong focus on regulatory compliance. Her leadership supports both operational efficiency and a safe, compliant working environment.

Kathy is a registered nurse and holds asbestos certifications from the University of North Carolina and the Medical College of Virginia. She also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health from Columbia Southern University. She is an active member of the Environmental Information Association.

Felicia Butler

Mold Lab Supervisor

Felicia Butler joined EHS shortly after receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2009. As Technical Supervisor, she provides leadership, guidance, and support to a team of analysts while overseeing the day-to-day operations of the mold laboratory.

She is responsible for quality control activities and ensures the accuracy and timeliness of testing processes. Her attention to detail and commitment to quality play a key role in maintaining laboratory standards.
Felicia’s leadership supports the delivery of consistent, reliable results for clients.