Jordan Stokes
Self-perform work leader, Midwest region, Ryan Cos.
Age: 35
Wife: Payton Stokes
Children: Suttyn (5), Rhettlyn (3)
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
I serve on the American Concrete Institute Iowa Chapter board of directors and will be 2024 vice president.
I lead Ryan Cos.’ self-perform operations for the state of Iowa.
I support a variety of charities and organizations throughout Central Iowa by dedicating my time to their missions.
I serve as a committee member for Altoona Palooza.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
My biggest passion is volunteering in our community. I choose to help make our communities thrive and a better place for all to live by being a leader in that community. This involvement is something I do not take lightly and am proud to continuously improve Central Iowa.
What are your goals in your role at work?
My first goal is to always take care of clients and people. Knowing relationships drive the work that we do, I ensure that my clients are well taken care of. I passionately believe if we take care of our clients, they will take care of you.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
My goal in 2024 is to dive deeper into assisting at church on a committee, continue to be a good husband and be a significant role model for my kids.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
The first week I was at Ryan, I learned the motto from Ryan Cos. of “Always do the right thing.” I use that in my professional and personal life when making decisions. God is a large part of my life, and I strive to be a steward in serving others.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I am passionate about the work that I do with Ryan. I've had success in growing our self-perform work in Central Iowa and am driven to see this growth throughout the state of Iowa.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Build and maintain a strong professional network. Relationships can open many doors early in your career and always make a point of your well-being between work and family life.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
Labor shortage in the construction industry is a real and prevalent concern. We need to ensure we are providing high-quality labor to achieve success and longevity of the skilled labor market in our community through our construction projects. Ryan Cos. has partnered with Southeast Polk schools in their new skilled trades center, and this is a great start to introducing these skills to high school students.
What's one fun fact about you?
Held two national swimming relay records at 12 years old, which were held for roughly 20 years.
Hobbies: Spending time with family, waterfowl hunting and golf.
One word that describes you: Dedicated.
What is your favorite local restaurant? John and Nicks in Waukee.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done” by Lawrence Bossidy and Ram Charan.
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Coaching T-ball, live music at a variety of venues across Des Moines, and Iowa Cubs and Iowa Wild games.