Ryan Edward Rock, a seasoned agriculture industrial general contractor, serves as the president of Empire Ag, based in Ankeny, Iowa. His journey to business ownership is steeped in a blend of Midwestern values and a lifelong commitment to service. He has crafted a fulfilling life not far from his childhood home, underpinning his professional endeavors with a solid family foundation. Having gained substantial experience in the agricultural industrial sector, Rock took the entrepreneurial leap by establishing Empire Ag. His firm specializes in designing and constructing facilities essential for agricultural and industrial operations. Rock and his team—comprising outstanding business partners and a top-notch field crew—focus on delivering high-quality facilities nationwide that are pivotal for processing and storing grains, feed, and flour. These efforts are central to supporting American agriculture and global food supply chains. Ryan’s dynamic nature was evident early on. Raised on a 160-acre farm rented from his grandmother, he became familiar with agricultural demands and community needs through his involvement in 4-H and the Boy Scouts. His tenure in the Army National Guard began at age 17, which supported his subsequent academic pursuits at Iowa State University, funded without accruing debt. His military service included a significant 15-month deployment to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. After returning from service, Ryan connected with the local agricultural and industrial construction community through a series of handyman jobs, which led to a pivotal role at Todd & Sargent. Starting as an assistant superintendent, he quickly ascended through the ranks, handling everything from project estimation to operations management, eventually earning a vice-presidential position before founding his own company. Rock’s academic ambitions were evident from his high school days, where he earned college credits early, facilitating a seamless transition to Iowa State University. After serving in Iraq, he completed his degree in Finance, graduating in 2005 with a robust understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of business management. At home in Ankeny, Iowa, Rock is deeply committed to his family—his wife and three daughters. The family is actively enhancing their living space to meet their needs, constructing a new home on their property. When he’s not busy with family or work, Ryan lends his skills to friends’ construction projects, indulges in his passion for restoring hobby cars, and enjoys various home improvement endeavors. Ryan Edward Rock’s narrative is one of dedication, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit, grounded in his roots and broadened by his experiences at home and abroad.