Ryan McCrary

About Ryan McCrary

I am a strategic communications and public information leader with 15+ years of experience shaping clear, compelling messaging for government agencies, higher education, and nonprofits. Skilled at crisis communications, media relations, and community engagement, I’ve served as a trusted spokesperson during high-stakes emergencies, major infrastructure projects, and sensitive organizational transitions.At ODOT, I led public information efforts for multimillion-dollar transportation projects like the I-205 Abernethy Bridge and I-5 Rose Quarter, delivering real-time crisis messaging during severe storms and safety events. Previously, I directed communications for the West Coast Conference, driving rebranding initiatives, thought leadership, and stakeholder engagement across 10 NCAA Division I institutions.I excel at translating complex, technical information into accessible narratives, building strong relationships with media, community stakeholders, and leadership, and leveraging digital platforms to expand reach. Passionate about mission-driven storytelling, I help organizations inform, inspire, and strengthen trust with the communities they serve.

Experience

1. Public Information Officer, Traffic Management Center

   Washington State Department of Transportation

   Dec 2025 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

   Serve as frontline communications lead within the Northwest Region Traffic Management Center (TMC), supporting traffic, maintenance, operations, and emergency response across a complex, high-volume transportation network. Perform daily PIO duties within the TMC, monitoring collisions, disruptions, and operational impacts and coordinating real-time messaging with operators, engineers, and leadership. Develop and publish content across digital platforms, including social media and web updates, coordinating closely with regional and statewide communications teams. Lead communications for traffic, maintenance, and operations programs, developing and implementing short- and long-term communication plans aligned with public safety and agency priorities.

Education

• Northwestern University

  Certificate Course, Content Marketing Strategy

• MIT Sloan School of Management

  Certificate Course, Leadership in an Exponentially Changing World

• Gonzaga University

  M.A, Organizational Leadership

  1996 — 1998

• Gonzaga University

  Bachelor's degree, History

  1992 — 1996

Skills

• Higher Education
• Editing
• Sports Management
• Social Media
• Sports Marketing
• Public Relations
• Media Relations
• Public Speaking
• Facebook
• Press Releases
• Event Planning
• Sports