People First Spotlight - Jenny Gries

May 6, 2026

From accounting offices to diesel bays, for one technician at Ruan what started as a search for a more fulfilling, hands-on work environment turned into a thriving career as a diesel mechanic. Jenny Gries who is driven by a passion for problem-solving, a love of working with large vehicles, and a desire for long-term stability, she found her place in an industry where every day is never the same. In the Q&A below, she shares how she made the switch, what she enjoys most about the job, and why becoming a diesel technician at Ruan has been the right fit for her.

 

What’s your favorite part of your job?

At the Ankeny location, we get to work a four-day work week. I have never had ten-hour shifts before, so I initially thought I was going to be exhausted working four ten hour shifts every week. Because I genuinely love what I do, I am never exhausted or tired during or after the workday, if anything I feel more energized.

Charles, manager at the Ankeny warehouse location, is a great boss. He trusts us, which is so important to help me succeed and grow. He trusts that we will get the job done and will back the technicians to support us and our work.

What makes you proud to represent Ruan?

Ruan is extremely safety focused, which is why Charles plays such a crucial role in helping the technicians feel confident. Our team is supported in making the right decisions, even when it means taking a truck out of service. If something isn’t safe, we address it with no questions asked, and management fully supports that. Ruan’s strong commitment to safety is something I take a lot of pride in.

I also value the company culture here at Ruan. After working in a corporate setting where I often felt unheard, it’s refreshing to be part of an organization where employee voices matter. As a family-owned company, Ruan truly feels people-focused company-wide. There’s a strong sense of collaboration between shop locations and office teams, and it’s clear that employees are respected and supported at every level.

 

Tell us about a time where your work really made a difference to someone.

Much like my favorite aspect of the job, my work makes a meaningful impact every day. I see the results firsthand with each truck that comes and goes. Keeping trucks safe and operational allows goods to move across the country, which directly supports small or large businesses and communities. That sense of purpose is extremely fulfilling to me.

I’ve also had meaningful interactions with drivers who appreciate the work we do. One experience that stands out most is when an outside operational driver came in with an emergency windshield issue. While we worked on his truck, he brought donuts for the team and spent time talking with us. It was a small gesture, but it reinforced how much our work is valued and reiterated that we are “One Ruan” no matter where we’re located.

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Why should someone consider a diesel technician career with Ruan?

Ruan was a great place to start and grow. I was hired before finishing my degree, and this is my first technician role. Charles invested time in training me and helping me build confidence in my skills.

Ruan emphasizes continuous learning and development by honing in on your strengths and areas to grow. I am very well trained at reading wiring diagrams, which has been encouraged through giving me more tasks including this. I’m also given opportunities to improve in areas where I have less experience. The balance has helped me grow in my comfortability and confidence in my role. If you’re looking for a hands-on career with strong support, opportunities to learn, and long-term stability, Ruan is the place to be!

 

Check out our diesel technician opportunties here!

Interested in learning more?

Contact us!

 

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