Ryan grew up just south of the border in Longmont, Colorado. After graduating from high school, Ryan moved to Laramie and attended the University of Wyoming earning both his degree in business marketing in 1996 and law degree in 1999. Ryan began his career as a civil litigator with Hirst Applegate in Cheyenne. After spending over four years with Hirst Applegate, Ryan joined the Civil Division of the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office in November 2003.

Ryan began his career with the Office as a tax litigator representing the Wyoming Department of Revenue before the Wyoming Board of Equalization, various state district courts, and the Wyoming Supreme Court. Since joining the Office, Ryan has also represented the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, Military Department, Livestock Board, Secretary of State, State Auditor, Banking Commissioner, Department of Audit, Department of Administration and Information, Environmental Quality Council, and many licensing boards and commissions. 

In 2006, Ryan was promoted to section supervisor in the Civil Division and was subsequently promoted to Civil Division deputy in March 2015 by former Attorney General Peter Michael. During his time in the Civil Division, Ryan litigated and argued numerous cases before the Wyoming Board of Equalization, Office of Administrative Hearings, Wyoming’s state and federal courts, and the Wyoming Supreme Court.

In March 2019, Attorney General Bridget Hill promoted Ryan to chief deputy.

Ryan enjoys hiking, fishing, and spending time outdoors with his family.