Luke Stevens’ ESOP Success Story

At Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS), we change lives through employee ownership every day. Employee-owner, Luke Stevens, is a testament to the power of ownership. A superintendent and long-time employee-owner, Luke has been with ESS for 20 years and has first-hand experience of how the ESOP makes a difference. 

FROM OPERATOR TO OWNER

Luke transitioned to the construction industry after growing up around equipment on his family’s farm. Being raised on hog and cattle farms, Luke was no stranger to a bit of grit and hard work.  

Luke started his career as an equipment operator learning the ropes of the industry. Over the years he has worked in a variety of construction scopes including dirt and pipe crews, and now oversees projects as a superintendent. 

Luke has witnessed the ESOP evolve since he started at ESS in 2004. In the early stages of the ESOP, there was some skepticism. “Some people joked about not seeing the benefit and maybe getting a $20 check someday,” said Luke. Those doubts faded when he saw his ESOP account begin to grow. 

Once his ESOP account started to grow, Luke knew ownership meant something. His mindset flipped from just working at the company to being committed to building its future. “It really hit home last year when we hit the millionaire club,” said Luke’s wife, Jessica. “It’s not something you ever think is achievable until it happens.”

ADVICE FOR THE ESS FAMILY

Luke and Jessica have been part of the ESS family for 20 years. They’ve seen it grow, change and become the company it is today. Along the way they have grown and can share words of wisdom for the rest of our employee-owners and their families. 

“Quit looking for the next big thing. The grass is greener where you water it. If you stay with the company, it is going to pay off for you in the long haul, so stick with it,” said Jessica. “Talk to your supervisors and leaders because they are all there to support you. Get vested, and see what it can do for you.”

“No matter where you work, you’re going to have to put up with things,” said Luke. “The difference at ESS is you’re going to be paid the most with the ESOP and not have anything to worry about when you retire.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Luke’s journey as an employee-owner has been an example of how our people help build the future of the company. He’s proof that with patience and trust in the process, the ESOP can truly change lives. 

The ESOP advantage has allowed Luke to plan for a future he didn’t think was attainable. “Before, I thought I’d work til I die,” said Luke. “Now, I have options when I retire because I’ll have the money to do whatever I want.”