Labor Hall of Fame Honoree (2002)

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James E. Casey 1888-1983 "The basic principle which I believe has contributed more than any other to the building of our business... is the ownership of our company by the people employed in it." — James E. Casey

In 1907, James "Jim" Casey borrowed $100 and helped found a messenger service in Seattle, Washington, that developed into the world's largest package delivery company, the United Parcel Service (UPS). Casey believed that employees were the bedrock of the company and as president he established the principles of fair and equal treatment for all, promotion from within, and the chance to own a share of the business. By maintaining fair wages, even during the Great Depression, fostering cooperation with labor unions, and providing good working conditions, he assured a loyal and productive work force. While building UPS, Casey never forgot the struggles of his family after his father died at an early age. In 1948 Jim Casey established the Annie E. Casey Foundation to assist disadvantaged children. Through innovations in the use of technology and business practices introduced under Casey's leadership, UPS became a global giant providing good jobs for 330,000 American workers while remaining true to the values in which Casey believed.