Like many success stories, the history of Continental Fire & Security isn’t wrapped up in a single big breakthrough event or one dynamic person. It’s a series of moves and success built by smart, dedicated people and loyal customers over the years.

Originally founded in 1987 as Steven Environmental Services, Inc., the company got its start in office furniture. In June of 1994 it moved locations and had expanded its services greatly. By August of 1997, the business had changed and expanded enough to warrant a name that more clearly defined it’s expanded line of products and services: Continental Fire & Security, Inc. (CFS).

In 2002, longtime employees Jim Kousagan and Ray Webb joined then owner and President Terry Kovacs as equity partners, with Jim heavily focused on the sales side of the business and Ray taking the lead on service & operations. When Terry passed away unexpectedly in 2020, Jim took on the role of President and both he and Ray began to plan the long-term future of CFS.

In late 2021, CFS became a wholly-owned business of Gardiner, the leading HVAC and building services company in the region. In 2026, Gardiner acquired IntelliTech Fire & Security, Inc., adding over 40 years of experience and expertise in fire alarms, security systems, and more. The move bolstered Gardiner’s expansive offerings in fire & life safety. The company remains committed to the independent, entrepreneurial spirit that both companies were founded upon.