Why BSE? Be a main character in our story

Play a unique role

Carla Isom has always had an eye for what makes each person special.

During her first interview at Border States’ headquarters in Fargo, ND, she was introduced to a culture where every employee-owner plays a crucial part in an inspiring mission – a bigger story.

Now she’s telling it.

Isom started working as Border States’ creative services writer in late May. She writes stories that tell how employee-owners are impacting the world around them through their work, both in the field and around their communities. Border States has 95 locations across 18 states, with openings in many specializations. Check out these job openings.

“I love to hear people’s stories because everybody has one – usually many,” Isom says. “It doesn’t matter what you specialize in, there’s something about you that’s wonderful, special and memorable. The people at Border States are doing amazing things.”

What it means to be an employee-owner

Employee ownership is all about being empowered to provide solutions in the communities Border States serves. The company helps communities thrive by providing innovative product and supply chain solutions to the construction, industrial and utility enterprises.

Carla and her colleagues own the company – literally. But Border States’ employee stock ownership program (ESOP) is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to experiencing the fun workplace culture that exists here. Watch the video.

Support great causes with your colleagues

Originally from Lidgerwood, ND, Isom majored in physical education and dance at North Dakota State University, with focuses in business and education. Additionally, she earned a master’s degree in creative writing at Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Isom has spent her career working for nonprofits that benefit children and families, so she was happy to learn that Border States provides multiple giving opportunities to similar organizations. Employee-owners can regularly give back through nonprofits like United Way, 4 Luv of Dog Rescue, local food shelves and many other organizations. Barbeque, jeans day and silent auction fundraisers are common.

“Border States helps so many nonprofits, which is a big thing that drew me here,” Isom says.

Family comes first, and employee-owners step up to cover when a fellow co-worker needs to spend time with loved ones or handle personal matters.

“I’m able to relax when I go home, and I enjoy telling my husband about my day,” she says. “I also come to work looking forward to see my team members because we’re able to talk about families and what’s happening in our lives.

Grow your career at Border States

Isom also likes that Border States provides professional growth opportunities, such as leadership training and professional certifications. Training at one of the company’s 95 branch locations is also available, giving employee-owners the chance to learn multiple aspects of the company, starting at the warehouse level.

In her new role, Isom is looking forward to learning more about film, photography and digital editing tools that will go hand-in-hand with her writing. Ultimately, her new position is a perfect fit.

“It feels really good to be in a solid job,” Isom says. “I just really felt strongly that this was a match for what I was looking for in my life. I’ve never felt so cared for in a work position.”