Ryan began his tenure as its first director in April 2021 and has begun building a highly skilled team of committed professionals who all share his passion for positive change. The office is tasked with developing new workforce strategies designed to help Mississippians increase their career opportunities and assist Mississippi employers in their need of a highly skilled workforce.

Previously, Ryan spent 13 years working within the Haley Barbour Center for Manufacturing Excellence (CME)at the University of Mississippi. In his years of service at the University, Ryan worked with the state community college system, state and federal legislative delegations, and economic development agencies as he positioned the CME to increase its service to industry and students. His experience and love for his home state drive his commitment to continuous improvement and enhanced opportunity.

Ryan earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Mississippi, Croft Institute for International Studies and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Mississippi, School of Law. Ryan resides in Madison, MS with his wife, Erin F. Miller, and their three (3) children.

Larry grew up in the rural village of Saxapahaw, NC and started performing at a young age. After majoring in accounting at the University of North Carolina, Larry left his CPA dreams behind to pursue a career in stand-up comedy. He has shared the stage with entertainment legends like Faith Hill, Chris Rock, and "Weird Al" Yankovic — just to name a few. You can hear him daily on Sirius XM radio’s "Laugh USA" and "Jeff and Larry’s Comedy Roundup."

A true veteran of the stage, Larry has delivered thousands of keynotes at corporate events, conventions, annual meetings, and conferences across the United States.