Who We Are
Wagner was founded in 1955 with the vision that the industry was ready for a different kind of commercial handrail company—one focused on its customers and employees. Rather than simply keeping up with the market, our founders aimed to innovate and grow Wagner into the market leader it is today.
We believe there’s a significant difference between being a competent, reliable supplier and being a partner known for outperforming expectations. To truly stand out in the industry, we must play a critical role in helping our customers do the same. Every part of our business is aligned to achieve this goal.
In 2015, the Wagner family sold the company to its employees, a decision rooted in their commitment to preserving manufacturing jobs in the Milwaukee area and allowing employees to carry on the rich traditions that make Wagner a great place to work. Wagner is now a 100% employee-owned manufacturing company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). An ESOP is a qualified retirement plan that gives our Shareholders beneficial ownership in the company. We firmly believe employee ownership drives our success in everything we do.
What Is an ESOP?
An ESOP, or employee stock ownership plan, is an employee ownership structure that operates similarly to a qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k). Through an ESOP, employees gain ownership of the company by receiving stock. Shares are distributed to employees over time, and each employee has their own account to hold their shares. Achieving full ownership of these shares, known as becoming fully vested, typically takes a few years. This encourages employees to stay with employee-owned companies for the long term.
At Wagner, being an employee means being an owner. As a value-based market leader, we are proud that all employee Shareholders are vested in the success of a sustainable ESOP. This ownership structure empowers Shareholders to actively contribute to making our company the best it can be. The ESOP fosters shared governance, shared responsibility, and shared rewards, aligning with our entrepreneurial and empowered culture. For our customers, this means we are deeply invested in every project because our success is directly tied to theirs.
Our Values
Our shareholders embody our core values of innovation, performance, people, integrity and empathy. Together, these values create a culture of accountability.
As an ESOP, we are all shareholders who share in both successes and shortfalls. By living out our values, we hold ourselves and one another accountable to ensure we fulfill our promises and obligations. These values are more than just words on our walls—they are the foundation of our approach to business.
People
As a team, we do the right thing. We respect, trust, and support each other, motivating everyone to achieve their career goals. We recognize and celebrate everyone's contribution to Wagner's success.
Integrity
Success will come and go but integrity lasts forever. We are honest and forthcoming with each other, regardless of the situation or circumstances.
Empathy
Understanding perspectives helps us to build collaborative solutions that strengthen our relationships with each other and with customers.
Innovation
We foster purpose-driving creativity. We identify and explore new opportunities and actively offer new ideas that solve challenges and exceed expectations.
Performance
Our combined performance ensures the health of our company and our ESOP. Profitability fuels us as we grow and allows us to sustain the financial security of our stakeholders.
People Love to Work Here
We are proud to work here and to share our story, one filled with history and innovation. We embrace a culture of accountability, continually improving to provide our customers with cutting-edge, innovative solutions.
Since our founding in 1955, we have grown while retaining the friendly, caring culture that sets us apart. It is a culture where each individual is respected, supported, and empowered to make a difference and succeed. Here, you can build a purposeful career, and our benefits reflect how much we value our employees and their families. Our benefits include:
- Competitive health insurance plans
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer match
- Company stock through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Education assistance
- Annual personal development allowance
- And more
Interested in learning more about our career opportunities? Our team is growing and looking for the best talent to join our ESOP.