Rising Stars 2023: Ryan Vickers

Ryan Vickers, 37
Controller, global aftermarket
Progress Rail

Nominator’s quote: “With 15 years in the industry, as well as his financial acumen and strong commercial perspective, Ryan understands the diverse and unique needs of customers across the globe.” — John Newman, Progress Rail

Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, University of Florida; MBA, Southern Methodist University.

Job responsibilities: All financial aspects of Progress Rail’s global locomotive aftermarket and services business and 13 international rolling stock locations, both from a financial business support and statutory perspective.

Career path: Started at Siemens with the finance leadership development program. After completion, took a role as a commercial/project controller for Siemens’ high-purity water solutions business. In 2011, transferred to Siemens’ low voltage business unit as operations controller. Five years later, accepted a senior finance manager role over domestic aftermarket at Progress Rail; in 2019, was promoted to controller, global automotive aftermarket.

How did you get into the rail industry? By chance. I was looking for my next career opportunity when a headhunter reached out to me about an opening at Progress Rail. After doing research on the industry and company, I made the decision to join and couldn’t be happier with the choice.

What is the best career advice you’ve received so far? Don’t be afraid to take risks or accept an uncomfortable assignment. Those are the times when the most learning and growth happen and where you can create the most value for the company.

What advice would you give to a new railroader? Don’t underestimate the value of relationships and your professional network. The rail industry can seem large, but it’s incredible the number of times your path will cross with people you know. You never know when a relationship you have will prove beneficial.

What was your first job? In high school, I worked in concessions at a local movie theater.

Share a fun fact about yourself. I grew up in Florida and enjoy fishing any chance I get. I once hooked a 100-plus-pound tarpon on a kayak, and while I didn’t land it, it gave me quite a ride.

If you could have dinner with anyone alive in the world, who would it be and why? Former U.S. President George W. Bush. From a leadership standpoint, I would find it very interesting to hear more about his philosophies and decision-making as he steered the country through a very complicated eight years while in office.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career and why? My father. After coming from little, he worked very hard and had a very successful career. Seeing his work ethic and dedication taught me what it takes to make an impact in each role I have and to succeed in the corporate world.

Describe a major obstacle in your career and how you surmounted it. A number of years ago, I was passed up for a role where I felt I was the most qualified candidate. Not getting that role gave me the push I needed to get out of my comfort zone and make a change. Sometimes the things in your career that are disappointing or you can’t make sense of actually work out for the best.