Carl Basler attended Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Pierron.

At the start of WWII he purchased the Imperial Clock Company and produced screw machine parts for the government. He moved this business from his father's garage to the old Embroidery Works building in Highland. This was the start of Basler Electric and Manufacturing Company. After WWII he sold the screw machine business. (It became Highland Machine and Screw Products Company). Mr. Basler served as President and Chairman of the Board of Basler Electric for many years. The company has continued to grow by acquiring additional divisions and locations. Today there are facilities in Highland, Illinois, several other states, along with Mexico and France.

Mr. Basler served on the Board of Directors of the SIUE Foundation and was a founding member of the SIUE Industrial Advisory Board. Additionally he served as a director for the First National Bank of Highland, served on the Highland Manufacturing Association, and the Illinois Manufacturing Association. Active within the community, Carl was a member of the Highland Optimist Club, St. Louis B.P.O.E., SERTOMA Club of St. Louis, the Missouri Athletic Club, and the St. Louis Media Club. He was an active member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland.