Ryan was born and raised in rural Utah. Being with his family in the mountains is a passion of his. Ryan side by sides, skis, and hikes often in his spare time. He attended Snow College and then later graduated from the University of Utah with his Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) with an emphasis in substance use disorder treatment and child welfare systems. Ryan completed his graduate studies at Boise State University where he received his Master's in Social Work (MSW) and he later on received his Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license.

Ryan started his career working in local residential treatment homes for youth and adults as a CSUDC counselor both in Sanpete and Salt Lake counties. He then continued to serve his local community by working for The State of Utah, Division of child and Family Services (DCFS)  and later became a  program administrator for The Department of Human Services', System of Care programs.  Ryan is a passionate Social Worker, mental health therapist, and continues to be a partner and advocate for marginalized populations within his local community.