This past week, we hosted our annual Intern Integration Day: an experience unique to Ryan that brings our integrated design-build approach to life.  

Over the course of two days, our interns from across the country came together to take on a real-world development challenge. Working in cross-functional teams that mirror our integrated design-build model, they stepped into roles across development, design and construction, using simplified versions of the same tools our teams use every day, from proformas and ROI modeling to site selection and design software.  

The experience supplements their project-specific internships with a broader view of how our skilled teams collaborate to solve complex problems. Past projects include full-block housing and senior living developments, and sustainable construction trailers. This year, interns designed, developed, priced, and planned the centerpiece amenity clubhouse space for housing development in the Southeast region. 

Interns presented their final proposals to a jury of senior leaders, gaining valuable feedback, building cross-market relationships, and seeing first-hand what it means to work on a high-performing team.  

It’s more than just a learning experience; it’s an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and grow. This two-day event, combined with the hands-on work they do every day, creates a lasting impact that many interns carry with them long after the summer ends. 

Here is a look at what this years interns had to say about their time at Ryan: 

  • “Ryan Companies meets whatever level of enthusiasm you bring to the table. Their internship is designed around what they can invest in you, rather than the other way around. They immerse you in every aspect of their operations and provide real-world experience that far exceeded my expectations.” – Interior Design Intern
  • “The skill I’m most excited to take back to college is a better understanding of how people communicate in the field and how important that is to ensure everybody is on the same page and working towards the same end goal of completing the project. I think that is something you can only really learn by being on a jobsite and seeing it firsthand.”– Field Engineer Intern
  • “The biggest takeaway from my internship is to dive into as many things you can get yourself into, there is no bad experience even if it is a bad experience.” – Project Engineer Intern

We were impressed to see how this year’s intern teams rose to the challenge. 

Interested in becoming a Ryan intern?  

Join a team that takes a collaborative, relationship-driven approach to delivering spaces where people thrive, and businesses succeed. Our internship program offers hands-on experience, meaningful connections, and a chance to contribute to real-world projects that make a lasting impact. Learn more and apply here.