Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
FORT WAYNE – Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne and Kosciusko County has welcomed Ryan Christner, president and CEO of OrthoWorx, to its Campus Board of Trustees.
A lifelong Kosciusko County resident with 16 years of experience in the orthopedic industry, Christner brings a practical understanding of manufacturing, talent development and the connections between education and meaningful careers, according to a news release from Ivy Tech.
“Throughout my career, I have had many interactions with Ivy Tech and have seen the vital role the college plays in the education, community and industry ecosystem that makes Kosciusko County and Fort Wayne so special,” Christner said. “I am excited to serve as an industry and community voice, helping connect, collaborate and communicate as we expand opportunities for students and employers to thrive in our community.”
Christner began his orthopedic industry career as a production scheduler at Symmetry Medical, now Tecomet, where he also gained hands-on experience in polishing, CNC machining and quality inspection. He later held leadership roles with Precision Medical Technologies and Medartis, building expertise in human resources, employee development, operations, supply chain and logistics. He also spent a decade as an industry adviser to OrthoWorx before joining the organization full time in 2024 and becoming president and CEO in June 2025. Today, he leads the organization’s work in talent attraction, workforce development, community engagement and industry collaboration.
“Ryan understands both the aspirations of our students and the workforce needs of the employers who help our region thrive,” said Dr. Kim Barnett-Johnson, chancellor of Ivy Tech Fort Wayne and Kosciusko County. “His industry expertise, collaborative spirit and commitment to this community will make him a valuable voice on our board as we create more pathways for students to build fulfilling careers close to home.”
Christner’s own educational path included Ivy Tech. While attending Grace College, he took summer courses at Ivy Tech to catch up on credits. After exploring several possible career directions, he earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Grace in 2010 and an MBA in 2021. He said that experience helps him relate to students who may still be discovering how their interests and education can lead to a career.
“I am especially passionate about connecting students and employers to opportunities for meaningful careers where people can continue to grow right here in our backyard,” Christner said. “The thing that fills my cup most is connecting people. When education, industry and the community work together, we can create opportunities for students while helping employers build the talent pipelines they need.”
Born and raised in Syracuse, Christner is an Eagle Scout and has remained active in the community through coaching, mentorship and youth-focused service. He and his wife, Sara, chose to build their life and raise their family in Kosciusko County.
