Ryan enjoyed art as a kid and often brought home awards for his artistic skills. As he got older, this creativity led to a passion for building. He became a contractor working in metal, electricity and plumbing. He wanted to explore new career options, so he talked with a family friend who worked in the orthotics and prosthetics department at a local children’s hospital and invited him to check it out.

Once Ryan saw how the devices that POP professionals made helped kids, he knew this was the career for him. He pursued an education in POP and became a certified prosthetic-orthotic technician. One thing that stands out to him is how creative patients can be and how rewarding it is to be able to make their creativity come to life. He likes to think back on the unique device designs pediatric patients have requested over the years, including one kid who requested a prosthesis decorated with images of their favorite snack: macarons.

Ryan is excited to see how 3D printing takes off in the industry and the endless possibilities that can be discovered as POP professionals continue to innovate. One of his hobbies outside of the hospital is woodworking – he has handcrafted two dining room tables, one for himself and another for his twin brother.