This feature is a question-and-answer session with a Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 248th installment visiting with Dee Dee Miller, CEO/Owner/President of Tennessee Drug and Alcohol which exists to promote the right of all persons to live and work in an addiction free and safe environment.
Describe what TNDAC does. Tennessee Drug & Alcohol (TNDAC) provides comprehensive drug and alcohol testing and compliance services for both DOT and non-DOT employers. The company offers pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing, along with consortium management to ensure regulatory compliance. With in-office and 24/7 mobile collection services, TNDAC delivers convenient, reliable support to businesses while promoting safe, drug-free workplaces.
How did you get started? I was introduced into the field during my studies in nursing. I started out at the company as a part-time drug and alcohol collector while in nursing school. Over time, I worked my way up in the business and eventually took over as owner directly from the founder.
Describe your customers. We have a wide range of customers from businesses looking for pre-employment and post-accident testing, to those in need of regular testing for probation, to individuals looking for DNA and other court ordered tests. We also work with the Department of Transportation to help keep them in compliance with federal regulations pertaining to drug and alcohol testing and abuse.
What impacts your work environment? Our company serves clients regulated by court orders and the Department of Transportation, so shifts in federal policies and economic conditions directly affect our clientele, demand, and daily operations. Demand is also rising due to increased focus on mental health, workplace safety, and changing substance laws, while our mobile testing services help reduce environmental impact. Additionally, we continue investing in new technology, such as a THC breath testing unit, to improve efficiency and provide more accurate, timely results compared to traditional methods.
What are some things you wish you knew when you started? One of the most rewarding aspects of running Tennessee Drug & Alcohol is the flexibility it provides, allowing me to balance both professional responsibilities and personal commitments. I also find great fulfillment in being able to provide meaningful employment opportunities for others, supporting not only my team members but also their families. Additionally, I take pride in contributing to the community by offering essential services that promote safety, compliance, and overall well-being. Knowing that our work plays a role in protecting workplaces and supporting individuals gives purpose and value to what we do each day.
What do you most about this profession? Reflecting on my experience at Tennessee Drug & Alcohol, there are several key insights I wish I had understood more fully when I first began working in the business. First, I wish I had recognized the complexity and ever-evolving nature of DOT and non-DOT compliance regulations, particularly the importance of precise documentation, chain-of-custody procedures, and staying current with regulatory updates. Second, I wish I had implemented stronger operational systems and organizational structures earlier, as I have come to understand how essential clear processes and efficient workflows are to maintaining productivity and reducing unnecessary stress. Finally, I wish I had prioritized strategic growth and marketing from the outset; while the business has long relied on reputation and established relationships, today’s environment requires a more intentional approach to branding, outreach, and competitiveness. Collectively, these lessons have significantly shaped my leadership approach, strengthening my focus on compliance, organizational efficiency, and sustainable business growth.