Investing in the Future: ESS Foundation and Former Employee-Owner Fund Construction Camp
Rusty Crane may be retired, but his impact on the construction industry continues to grow. A former employee-owner with Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS), Rusty created an opportunity to invest in the future workforce.
In late 2024, Rusty donated $10,000 to the ESS Foundation, our employee-owner-led 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to investing in workforce and community development. His donation came with a request: use the funds to support the Hannibal School District in launching a construction-focused summer camp for middle school students.
“We need to reach out to students at an early age to let them know about the exciting and rewarding careers that are available,” said Rusty. “This program helps students explore the training opportunities that will prepare them for in-demand, high-paying careers in the construction industry.”
Creating a construction camp
Rusty approached Brent Meyer, Director of the Hannibal Career and Technical Center, with the idea of creating a summer construction program. The goal was to introduce students to career opportunities in construction and raise the next generation’s awareness of the industry.
The Hannibal Career and Technical Center responded with a proposal for a two-week summer camp, approved by the school board in February 2025. The camp ran from June 2 to June 13, welcoming 12 students.
“These employers and instructors at trade schools told me they have been discussing the need to reach younger students, but have never had the time or means to do it,” said Demetrius Wellman, instructor for summer camp.
Emery Sapp & Sons employee-owners showed their support by leading a safety presentation and hosting a field trip to the Improve I-70 Warrenton to Wentzville project, giving students a real-world look at the industry in action.
A lasting impact
Feedback from those involved with the program was overwhelmingly positive. The 12 students expressed interest in participating again, and the program has plans for enhancing future construction camps.
Rusty’s donation and idea demonstrate the lasting influence employee-owners have on our industry and the mission of the ESS Foundation. Rusty not only funded a successful program, but he also succeeded in sparking interest in construction careers.
The ESS Foundation is proud to support Rusty and anyone else with the goal of creating opportunities for the future workforce.
