How Employee Ownership Secures the Future for Legacy Utility Group
Legacy Utility Group, a premier infrastructure contractor based in Roseville, California, has made a transformational shift to employee ownership by establishing an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This strategic move not only secures the company’s long-term future but also empowers its workforce, reinforcing a culture of shared success and financial stability.
Why Legacy Utility Group Chose an ESOP
After years of significant growth in underground utility construction, CEO Dave Jaeger and the leadership team sought a succession plan that would preserve the company’s independence and core values. Rather than selling to a private equity firm or competitor, the company turned to The Menke Group, America’s leading ESOP advisory firm, to guide the transition.
“The team that built this company now owns it,” says Jaeger. “By implementing an ESOP, we are investing in our employees, ensuring continuity, and keeping Legacy Utility Group’s leadership in infrastructure development strong for years to come.”
The Impact of Employee Ownership
Employee ownership has proven benefits for both businesses and workers. Studies show that ESOPs drive higher employee engagement, improve retention, and boost overall financial performance. As an ESOP company, Legacy Utility Group strengthens its commitment to excellence in utility construction, infrastructure rehabilitation, and traffic management services.
“This transition ensures the company remains locally owned and operated,” says Trevor Gilmore, CEO of The Menke Group. “It also provides employees with long-term financial security and fosters a culture of accountability and shared success.”
What This Means for Customers and the Community
By adopting an ESOP structure, Legacy Utility Group guarantees business continuity for its clients across California and Nevada. The company remains committed to delivering high-quality services in underground pipeline construction, hydro-excavation, and traffic safety solutions while investing in its people.
Unlike traditional ownership models, an ESOP aligns the interests of employees with the company’s long-term success. This means:
- A dedicated workforce with a vested interest in project outcomes.
- Increased innovation and efficiency driven by employee engagement.
- Stability for customers, municipalities, and utility providers who rely on Legacy Utility Group’s expertise.
About Legacy Utility Group
Legacy Utility Group is the parent company of Nor-Cal Pipeline Services, JVAC Vacuum Excavation, and Guardian Traffic Solutions. Since its founding in 2007, the company has played a critical role in infrastructure development, offering specialized services in pipeline inspection, rehabilitation, utility locating, and traffic management.
About The Menke Group
The Menke Group is the largest and most experienced ESOP advisory firm in the United States, having assisted over 4,000 businesses in transitioning to employee ownership since 1974. With deep expertise in structuring and financing ESOPs, The Menke Group helps companies create sustainable succession plans that benefit business owners, employees, and communities.
