Emery Sapp & Sons

When Foreman Lee Shipman joined Emery Sapp & Sons in May 2023, he had 17 years of experience in the construction industry under his belt.

But he quickly noticed something special while working with his new colleagues on the job site.

“I came from a small company where I felt like I was doing everything by myself,” he recalls. “Here, it’s completely different. Everybody steps up to help, even if it’s not their project. The level of  teamwork changed my whole perspective on the industry.”

A Company Where Everyone Has a Stake

That strong culture of collaboration is rooted in the company’s unique approach to employee ownership. Founded in 1972, ESS is a 100% employee-owned heavy civil contractor with more than 1,600 employee-owners.

Unlike traditional retirement plans that rely on small matches, the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) at ESS gives every new hire the opportunity to build substantial wealth while contributing to the company’s success.

Employees can explore their potential long-term value with the company’s online ESOP calculator, demonstrating the impact of ownership over the span of a career at ESS.

Having a stake in the company is the fuel that drives high-quality work, on-time completion and rigorous safety standards for public organizations like the Missouri Department of Transportation and private companies throughout the Midwest.

Building Wealth While Building Roads

For Shipman, the difference was clear from his first year with ESS.

“The first time I saw my ESOP statement, it was amazing. The next year, it was jaw-dropping. Every hour you put in is building wealth. It motivates you to give your best when you’re building your own future.”

That ownership mindset runs deep at ESS and contributes to the success of every infrastructure project the company takes on. “When my teammates are successful, I’m successful,” Shipman says. “That kind of accountability makes jobs run smoother, safer and on time.”

Shipman has already recruited former colleagues from prior jobs to join ESS, pointing to the culture and ownership as factors bringing top talent to the company.

Taking Ownership of Success

“You’re not just working for a check here,” Shipman explains. “You’re working for your future, your family and your colleagues.”

With values rooted in people, purpose, partnership, passion and performance, Emery Sapp & Sons proves that when employees own their company, they also own its success.