$29,000 Raised for the ESS Foundation Through Dirt World Summit Auction

$29,000 Raised for the ESS Foundation Through Dirt World Summit Auction

The ESS Foundation received nearly $30,000 from the charitable silent auction held during the 2026 Ariat Dirt World Summit, helping fund initiatives that strengthen communities and create opportunities beyond the jobsite.

Industry Leaders Give Back

More than 1,500 leaders from across the civil and infrastructure construction industry gathered in Phoenix for the Summit. While attendees came together to discuss workforce challenges, share best practices, and strengthen their organizations, they also united around a common goal: supporting meaningful causes.

During a silent auction, participants bid on donated equipment and experiences. Auction items included a mini excavator and two skid steers, donated by Emery Sapp & Sons.

Proceeds from the auction were distributed among the ESS Foundation, Dream on 3, and Black Bird Mission. In addition, AlignOps matched silent auction cash donations up to $50,000, extending the impact of every dollar raised.

A Collective Effort

When bidding closed, the auction had raised $65,000. The success of the auction reflects the generosity of our industry and commitment to supporting the next generation. Every contribution helps further the ESS Foundation goal of building the current and future workforce.

To see how the ESS Foundation is investing in our communities, visit our Community Impact page. If you’d like to make an impact on the future of our industry, you can donate today.