When local businesses look for community organizations to support, the most impactful partnerships are grounded in shared beliefs and long-term relationships. For the Streib Company, supporting the Special Education Foundation’s (SEF) upcoming charity golf tournament is not just a charitable donation; it is a natural extension of a core mission to empower local youth and open doors to rewarding careers.
A Partnership Built on Real-World Connections
Streib Electric’s relationship with the Special School District (SSD) began early in the company’s journey through hands-on electrical and construction projects across district facilities. As that relationship deepened, Streib Electric partnered directly with SSD’s vocational campuses: South County Tech and North County Tech.
“We’ve always kind of supported the Special School District over the years, especially through South County and North County Tech. We’ve actually hired and grabbed some high school students out of there.”
— Tom Streib, Founder & Owner of Streib Electric
For the Streib Company, these technical high schools are not just community programs; they are vital talent incubators that provide students with tangible, life-changing skills and support the company’s broader commitment.
From One Truck to 220+ Professionals
To understand why the company is so passionate about vocational training, one only needs to look at its own story. Founded in 2004 as a one-man operation with a single truck, Streib has grown over 22 years into a full-service electrical, media, security, and fire alarm contractor with more than 220 employees.
With its main headquarters in St. Louis and a second branch in Northwest Arkansas, the company now operates across two regions.
To sustain that rapid growth while ensuring high-level quality, Streib launched its own formal apprenticeship program five years ago. Tom Streib, who brings 30 years of personal trade experience, believes heavy investment in training narrows the learning curve for young workers and sets them up for lifelong success.
The Future of Trades: AI-Proof and Lucrative
In an era dominated by discussions around automation and technology, vocational trades stand out as essential, future-proof professions.
“AI is not going to be taking the trades anytime soon. I love the idea that the Special School District is introducing these kids to the trades as early as high school and letting them know that there’s an alternative path for them to take on their journey. And quite frankly, it’s going to be a very lucrative one moving forward.”
— Tom Streib
By introducing students to building trades while they are still in high school, SSD equips young adults with career routes that offer strong earning potential, financial independence, and zero student loan burden. Streib Electric sees its financial support and apprenticeship mentoring as a way to sharpen that edge and invest in local talent.
Looking Ahead to October
As SEF gears up for the 24th Annual Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction this October, the Streib Company remains a dedicated champion of its mission. Supporting SEF helps ensure students receiving SSD services continue to have the opportunities offered through SEF's many programs, including scholarships, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy, the Autism Independence Project, and career exposure programs that help students thrive.
For more than a decade, The Streib Company has supported our golf tournament, and this year it will be a Hole in One Sponsor for the event, which takes place on Monday, October 12, 2026, at Norwood Hills Country Club.
To learn more about becoming a sponsor, please visit our website.
