Emery Sapp & Sons

For Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS), a leading infrastructure contractor in the Midwest, employee ownership isn’t just a business model. It’s the foundation of a workplace culture that inspires loyalty and excellence.

“Being an employee-owned company means everyone has a stake in the company’s success,” explains Eric Chambers, who recently began his 14th year with ESS. “As an owner, you approach your daily work with a sense of accountability and pride, knowing that your contribution is impacting the company’s performance and long-term growth.”

Chambers, who joined ESS at age 38 after hearing about their Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) structure, has experienced significant professional growth during his tenure. Starting as a foreman running a pipe crew, he was later promoted to Superintendent over Springfield utilities.

“I’ve stayed here 14 years because of the strong sense of ownership and teamwork,” Chambers says. “Being part of an employee-owned company means I’m not just working a job. I’m contributing to something bigger. The culture here is supportive and collaborative, and I’ve had the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.”

This growth is intentional, with ESS investing in employee development through various initiatives. “They do a lot to help you grow, from month-end meetings to teaching different processes, doing DISC (personality) assessments, and helping you learn how to communicate with your fellow employees,” says Chambers.

ESS operates on five core values known as the “five Ps”: People, Purpose, Partnership, Passion, and Performance. According to Chambers, these principles are evident in daily operations. “We’re a tight group here. We lean on each other for help, and it’s always available.”

For those considering a career at ESS, Chambers offers straightforward advice. “ESS is a great company. The biggest thing here is to be prideful of your work, do the best job you can, and work hard. The payoff is real.”

What truly sets ESS apart? “The employee-ownership mindset. Everyone thinks and acts like they’re an owner, which they are,” Chambers emphasizes. “That forces you to take accountability for your work, make good decisions and strive to always improve.”