September 23, 2026
By Deidra Mahoney
Meet Ryan Vice, who joined the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering in July as director of business operations. From his career in finance and public service to his experiences growing up around technology and robotics, Ryan has followed a path shaped by curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to continuous growth.
In this Q&A, learn about his career path, his first impressions of Georgia Tech, and the passions and interests that shape him both personally and professionally.
Tell us about your role as director of business operations. What does it involve?
My role involves overseeing the School's finance and facilities management divisions. I'm also part of the School's leadership cabinet, helping ensure that everything related to finance, space management, and facilities is addressed and managed effectively.
Can you share a little about your career path and what led you to Georgia Tech?
I started my career in finance a little over 18 years ago. When I moved to Atlanta in 2016, I began working in the public sector with Fulton County government. I started in the Department of Senior Services and found that I enjoyed work that felt meaningful and connected to people rather than simply sitting behind a desk conducting audits. Over time, I worked my way up through various finance roles. Before leaving Fulton County, I served as director of budget and procurement for the Solicitor-General's Office. I was looking for a new challenge that would allow me to remain in public service, and that journey ultimately brought me to Georgia Tech.
What have been your first impressions of Georgia Tech?
It's been great. In some ways, it feels like a return to something familiar from my childhood. I grew up in the Lowcountry of South Carolina in the small town of St. Stephen, near Charleston. I participated in Technology Student Association (TSA) and FIRST robotics programs from middle school through high school. We built bridges, competed in robotics competitions, and were involved in all kinds of technology-related activities. I was fortunate to place at the state and national levels multiple times in student competitions. Being here and seeing students tackle innovative projects reminds me of those experiences. I'm equally impressed by the genuine passion faculty demonstrate in creating incomparable experiences for students in mechanical engineering.
What are some of your hobbies?
I’m a creative at heart. I enjoy traveling and playing spades. I'm also a musician. I play piano and organ at Martin Street Church of God. I've been playing for about 25 years.
When I was younger, I also played with community bands in the Charleston area. We held informal musician gatherings where people got together and played, sometimes referred to as “musician shed.” I've also performed at a few weddings over the years.
What motivates you, personally and professionally?
Ultimately, I'm motivated by continuous growth and the freedom to explore and develop new ideas. I thrive when I'm pushing creative boundaries and discovering what’s truly possible.
What is one piece of professional advice that has stayed with you throughout your career?
Someone once told me that no matter how far you go in leadership, always remember that you're still a student. Be open to feedback from everyone, regardless of their role.
I apply that same philosophy to music. I tell other musicians that you're never going to learn every chord on the piano. There are only 88 keys, but there's always something new to learn from someone else. Embrace lifelong learning and view limitations not as endpoints, but as invitations to discover fresh perspectives.
