Nomination from within BPI’s own ranks reflects Schull’s commitment to veteran employment and a military-friendly workplace culture
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Building Products Inc. (BPI) CEO Kyle Schull has been named a recipient of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award, one of the most meaningful honors an employer can receive from the military community. The award was presented by ESGR volunteer Laurie Fluit at a surprise ceremony during a recent company leadership meeting.
The Patriot Award is given to supervisors and employers who demonstrate exceptional support for employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve. Nominations come directly from service members themselves, making the recognition especially significant. Schull was nominated by AJ Spake, a BPI employee and active Guard member, on behalf of the veterans and service members throughout the organization.
“Your support has extended to not only myself, but several other employees here at BPI,” said Spake in his nomination. “As a veteran leader, you’ve set an example for everyone else at the company.”
Schull, a Marine veteran, brings firsthand understanding of the demands military service places on employees and their families. Under his leadership, BPI has built a workplace culture that actively recruits veterans and accommodates the obligations of current Guard and Reserve members, not as a matter of policy, but as a reflection of his personal commitment.
Nearly a dozen veterans have found employment at BPI, where Schull has made military experience a valued asset in hiring decisions.
“Veterans make great employees. That’s just a fact.” Schull said. “They bring accountability, discipline, and a mission-first mindset, and that’s exactly what we need at BPI. We’re proud to support them here.”
As part of the recognition, BPI received an official Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve, which Schull signed and will display prominently at BPI locations, a visible signal to veterans and service members that BPI is a military-friendly employer.
The ESGR Patriot Award is part of a national recognition program that honors employers at multiple levels, with top recipients eligible for national recognition. South Dakota has consistently produced nationally recognized employers through the ESGR program, reflecting the state’s strong culture of support for those who serve.
About Building Products Inc.
Building Products Inc. (BPI) is a regional building materials distributor serving the Midwest. BPI’s mission is to be the indispensable partner in driving customer success through inspiring solutions, helping customers grow their businesses through operational excellence, strategic vendor relationships, and a consultative approach to distribution.
About ESGR
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a U.S. Department of Defense program that promotes cooperation between civilian employers and their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. ESGR recognizes employers who go above and beyond in their support of service members and helps ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).
