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ESS Foundation Donates $10,000 to Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis

December 2, 2025
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ESS Foundation Donates $10,000 to Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis

The ESS Foundation, the employee-owner-led nonprofit of ESS Companies (ESSC), has donated $10,000 to Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis (JA STL), to help empower young people with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. 

 JA STL is an organization that prepares the future workforce to succeed in a global economy. Through hands-on programs in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness, JA STL gives students the skills they need to thrive in our industry. 

“We’re deeply grateful to the ESS Foundation for empowering young people to pursue careers that shape the world around us,” said Lori Jacob, President and CEO of JA STL. “Their investment in JA Trades opens doors for students to explore rewarding opportunities in the skilled trades.” 

 A check presentation ceremony was held earlier this week, with leaders from ESS Foundation, JA STL, and ESSC in attendance to celebrate the shared commitment to workforce development and community impact. 

“This is why the ESS Foundation exists,” said Angie Richardson, ESS Foundation Board Member. “The future of our industry is in the upcoming workforce, and we’re here to support them.” 

The ESS Foundation was created to provide opportunities for the next generation of industry professionals. By supporting organizations like JA STL, the ESS Foundation helps students discover careers they might never have considered, including opportunities in heavy civil construction. 

“We’re proud to support Junior Achievement, who share our vision of creating opportunities for the next generation,” said Tim Paulson, President of the ESS Foundation. “By investing in the program, we help students build the skills they need to succeed — not just in our industry, but in life.”  

This partnership is a continuation of the ESS Foundation’s investment in workforce development programs. Recently, the ESS Foundation also donated to West-MEC in Arizona, expanding its impact nationwide. To support the ESS Foundation’s mission, donate today