Q&A with Ryan's Employee Resource Group, Shamrock6

May is National Military Appreciation Month—a time to reflect on the service, sacrifice and strength of those who have worn our nation’s uniform. We’re proud to recognize and support the veterans and active service members within our own team. 

Our Employee Resource Group, Shamrock6, is dedicated to honoring military and veteran voices, experiences and leadership. Through volunteering, care packages, community events and more, Shamrock6 creates meaningful opportunities to honor and support those who have and are currently serving. 

To shine a spotlight on Military Appreciation Month, we’re sharing reflections from several team members who are also active participants in Shamrock6, including: 

• Adam Nowoj, Associate Director of Architecture – Industrial 
• Jana Mortland, Senior Marketing Coordinator and Shamrock6 Co-Chair 
• Stephanie Adamczyk, Director of Construction 
• Jason Gabrick, Regional Senior Vice President of Operations 
• Mai Rowe, Senior Project Coordinator and U.S. Army veteran (2003–2007), where she served as an Automated Logistics Specialist 

Read below to hear more about that this month means to them and how their military experiences continue to shape their work and purpose today. 

What does Military Appreciation Month mean to you, and how do you celebrate it?  

Jana: Military awareness means a lot to me, especially as the wife of a veteran who served in Iraq and Kuwait. It’s about understanding the sacrifices our service members make and the challenges they face, both during and after their service. As a leader of the Shamrock6 ERG, I focus on creating a supportive environment where veterans feel heard and appreciated. I celebrate Military Awareness by pushing for initiatives that connect, support, and honor the military community, making sure veterans know they’re valued. It’s my way of giving back and showing gratitude for all they’ve done. 

Adam: I plan to display the American flag outside my house and go out of my way to thank veterans that I come across. 

Jason: I am in awe of the sacrifices the men and women of our military have done to provide the freedom we all enjoy. It is a special month to be able to honor the fallen, thank a veteran, get involved in community activities and generally reflect on the historical significance of our military veterans. 

What are some actions—big or small—that our colleagues can take to honor military service members, veterans and their families?  

Jana: There are lots of simple ways we can honor military service members, veterans, and their families. A quick thank you or a kind word can mean a lot to a veteran. Supporting or participating in events that benefit veterans or military families, like volunteer opportunities or donations, are other great ways to show support. It's also important to create a workplace where veterans feel comfortable sharing their experiences and know they’ve got a team behind them. Little actions like these can really make a difference and show appreciation for all they’ve done. 

Adam: Thank veterans that you see wearing a uniform or clothing identification. Find ways to donate your money and/or time. Creating care packages is another good way.  

Mai: One of the most meaningful ways to honor military service members, veterans, and their families is simply through genuine recognition and understanding. A small thank-you, a moment of listening to someone's story, or asking how you can support them goes a long way. Big picture:—advocating for inclusive hiring practices, promoting veteran-owned businesses, or participating in ERG events like this one all help create a culture of appreciation. As a veteran and working parent, I also think it’s powerful when people acknowledge the sacrifices our families make right alongside us. Those little moments of kindness and connection are what truly honor service. 

What’s one impactful story or experience from your time in the military that has stayed with you, and how has it shaped who you are today?   

Mai: One experience that’s really stayed with me happened during basic training. Before I left for the military, my family held a spirit-calling ceremony based on our animist and spiritual beliefs—something rooted in honoring our ancestors and asking for protection. As part of that, I wore red and white yarn tied around my wrists. One day at mess, my drill sergeants called me over and asked why I was out of uniform. I explained the meaning behind the yarn and the ceremony. They listened, asked a few more questions, and then simply said, “Okay, soldier—go on about your business.” That moment stuck with me. It could’ve gone differently, but instead, I felt respected. Looking back, I think it’s one of the reasons I take so much pride in my culture and feel excited to share it. It reminded me that holding onto who you are—especially in environments that ask for conformity—can be powerful.    

How has being a veteran, service member, ally, or family member of a veteran or service member shaped your professional career? 

Mai: Being a veteran has shaped my professional career in so many ways. The military taught me how to adapt quickly, stay calm under pressure, and lead with both confidence and compassion. It also taught me the importance of being part of a team—everyone has a role, and success comes from showing up fully and supporting each other. Those values have stuck with me in every job I’ve had since. I approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, I’m not afraid to speak up or take initiative, and I carry a deep sense of responsibility in everything I do. It’s not just about getting the job done—it’s about doing it well, with integrity. 

Jana: Being married to a veteran has definitely influenced my career, especially in how I lead and work with others. I’ve learned a lot about dedication, resilience, and sacrifice from my husband’s service, and it’s shaped how I approach challenges at work. It’s made me realize the importance of supporting people, especially those facing unique challenges, and creating an environment of trust. Through my role in leading Shamrock6, I’m able to use those lessons to advocate for veterans and help build a workplace that truly supports them. It’s really driven me to make a positive impact and show up for those who’ve served.  

How has Ryan supported you as a veteran, service member, ally, or military family member?  

Jana: Ryan’s support as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon (BTYR) company has meant a lot to me. Being part of a company that’s officially committed to supporting veterans and their families has made a huge difference in how I feel connected and valued here. BTYR ensures that veterans, service members, and their families have the resources and support they need, both inside and outside the workplace. Through Shamrock6 and other initiatives, I’ve been able to actively participate in efforts that give back to the military community, and Ryan’s commitment to this cause really shows.  

Describe the purpose and mission of Shamrock6 to someone who’s never heard of it before.   

Jana: Shamrock6 is an Employee Resource Group dedicated to supporting veterans, service members, and their families within Ryan Companies. Its mission is to create a community where military-connected employees can connect, share experiences, and advocate for initiatives that honor and support those who have served. Through Shamrock6, members engage in activities that promote awareness, provide resources, and foster a culture of inclusion for military families. It's a space where we can collaborate, learn from each other, and make a positive impact both within the company and in the broader community. 

What motivated you to get involved in Shamrock6, and how long have you been a member?  

Adam: I have never served and feel a sense of regret. I try and give back now as a result. I try and learn from the enlisted and veterans and discover how military life and leadership can positively influence civilian life.   

Jason: As our colleague Rick Collins was heading toward retirement, the late Anthony Rush— founding co-chair of Shamrock6— asked if I would join Rick as an executive sponsor. Anthony was a veteran and knew of my admiration of military members, so felt I would be a great fit. Having not served in the military myself, I feel a sense of guilt that I will never be able to pay the debt that is owed to our military members. Being a part of Shamrock6 is one way I can try to give back. The group is amazing, and I am so thankful Anthony asked me to join. 

Mai: I was motivated to get involved in Shamrock6 because I wanted to stay connected to the veteran community and be a voice for those who’ve served—especially women veterans and military families. Transitioning from the military into civilian life can be a huge shift, and being part of Shamrock6 allows me to help create a supportive space where others feel seen, heard, and valued. I’ve been a member for about two years now, and it’s been a great way to build community while contributing to a mission I care deeply about. 

What types of activities or initiatives has Shamrock6 organized that you believe have made a positive impact?  

Adam: Participating in Wreaths Across America by placing wreaths on the graves of the fallen military around Christmastime. I have done this before with my family and my deceased father, who was a veteran in the Air Force.  

Stephanie: Our speakers for military holidays have been so impactful! They give us a glimpse into their experiences that are candid and brave. It’s truly inspiring.  

What is a favorite memory or moment you have with Shamrock6 so far?  

 Adam: Creating Veterans Day and Memorial Day companywide messages for the Ryan Greenway intranet.  

Jason: Becoming a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Company was an incredible accomplishment that I am very proud of. Jana and team put a ton of work into our application, which resulted in analyzing how we can better support our veterans, active military members and their families. We are continuing to learn from other BTYR companies about what we can do together to benefit veterans.  

What is something you think might be misunderstood about Shamrock6 or ERGs in general that you’d like to clear up? 

Mai: One thing I’ve noticed is that people sometimes think Shamrock6 is only for veterans, but honestly, some of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had have been with colleagues who just wanted to learn more or show support. As a woman veteran and working mom, being part of this group has helped me feel seen in ways I didn’t expect—and I’ve also been able to share parts of my experience that others might not have known about otherwise. ERGs like Shamrock6 aren’t about exclusion—they’re about connection, education, and creating a space where people feel like they belong, whether they’ve served or not. 

Why is it important to have initiatives and efforts like Shamrock6 within companies like Ryan and our industry?  

Stephanie: Shamrock6 and our ERGs are so important to raise awareness and provide communal support. There are more people than you may expect experiencing the same challenges and successes!