In this day and age of instant gratification, it can seem like the classic idea of long-term mutual commitment in a career has gone by the wayside. But many of us can still remember a time when a person stayed with a company their entire lifetime. Loyalty was a two-way street and having the right values wasn’t just sought after, it was recognized and rewarded.

Yet, there are still companies that do just that—they aspire to do more. For instance, Delta Pipeline envisions something even more meaningful than a long-lasting career. They want to inspire, and give you the tools for hope.

“Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air…but only for one second without hope.” Hal Lindsey

We depend on hope. Not only is it an inspirational force, but it’s what gives us comfort. Hope makes it easier to persevere and to aim a little higher, even if our target is still in the distance.

Hope Means You Never Stop Learning

In construction, anyone can tell you that experience in the field is essential. The construction industry is by every definition a hands-on occupation. But Delta Pipeline’s hiring philosophy is not as simple as snapping up the best people with the most experience—it’s about giving hardworking individuals the tools to learn and to grow in their field. Many come to Delta with no experience in the construction industry.

Jacob, currently a Pipelayer, started as an entry-level Pipelayer Helper and worked his way up through the help of Delta’s outstanding training programs. “No matter what walk of life you come from or what you’ve been through, this is a place where you can come and learn a skilled trade while you’re working.”

No matter at what level you start, you’ll quickly understand that part of your job at Delta Pipeline is to never stop learning. Whether you want to grow your responsibilities in the field or pivot towards management, you’ll acquire the skills that will get you there.

Ray, a Foreman for Delta Pipeline, summarizes his thoughts on the impact the in-house training has had. “Bringing the training from the classroom to the field is a night and day difference.”

He’s referring to a training curriculum known as Delta Pipeline University (DPU). The 6-month in-house training has proven very successful for Delta Pipeline. They want you to understand that there’s always more to learn and aspire to. Ray completed Delta’s curriculum—he wasn’t hired on as a Foreman—he worked his way up to that position and DPU played a big role in developing his leadership abilities.

Julie from HR, has been involved with the company 25+ years and has seen DPU grow into what it is today, “It’s no cake walk, but we have a lot of success stories that come out of DPU.”

It’s rare to find a company that is willing to invest in you. For most, it’s safer to bet on the applicant that has the most experience. Delta Pipeline takes a long-term approach to hiring. They’ll hire you, no matter what your experience has been. They just ask that you’re a responsible hard worker with core values. Most of all, they want you to be willing to push your own limits, again and again. At Delta, it’s not about knowing the most—it’s about how eager you are to know more.

There’s a reason Delta has invested so much into DPU. Their mission is a long-standing career for everyone. The sky’s the limit on what you can do, if you’re willing to invest the time, effort and energy.

Hard Work Should Always Be Rewarded

Hope should never be seen as a luxury, or something you’re expected to earn as you go. Instead, hope should be a natural part of workplace culture. Hope drives you to be your best and to work your hardest.

Most of us are at our best when we have an understanding that our hard work will be appreciated. Even just words of gratitude suffice in most cases, but Delta Pipeline takes appreciation much further. Their Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Profit Sharing Program, 401(k), Delta Pipeline University and many other benefits are reasons to show up your best every day.

“I’ve been here almost 2 years. I was a Pipelayer Helper for a year and 4 months… I’ve been a Pipelayer 1 for 6 months now.” Justin shared his experience at Delta and how he moved up in the ranks during his 2 years of employment. He was even able to purchase a new vehicle using his first profit sharing check. “I roughed it for about a year and a half. Once I got a car, I could go home to my family. Everything is good now, really good.”

You’re Not Just an Employee, You’re Fully Invested with the Rest of Us

A job is one thing—it’ll put food on the table. Being an employee-owner is something entirely different. Shared ownership is a huge commitment towards something that is larger than the sum of its parts. Jobs will always change, but being a partner is the kind of thing that will change you. After all, building a company is hope for the future.

Construction is a complicated field today, but Delta Pipeline is transcending construction. They want to inspire hope, challenge you to grow and together, share the accomplishments of the whole team.

Craig Danley, President and CEO of Delta Pipeline summarizes the company’s mission towards a more cohesive and mutually profitable business model. One where everyone feels at home and has the tools to succeed.

“Longevity is about our commitment to being loyal. What does that get you? It gets you a place on the bus for life.”

At the end of the day, it’s hope that creates positive change in us all and Delta Pipeline is fully invested in offering the opportunity to learn, grow and make a difference.