Change can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it involves moving across the country. Ryan McCart, who has been with Smart City Networks since 2016, recently took on a new role as General Manager at the Phoenix Convention Center after years of leadership at the Atlantic City Convention Center and Virginia Beach Convention Center. We sat down with Ryan to talk about his career journey, what motivated his big move, and what he’s looking forward to in Phoenix, both professionally and personally. It was a great conversation. Ryan, this is your Spotlight!
Hi Ryan! You’ve had quite a journey with Smart City Networks! Can you walk us through your career path leading up to this new role?
R: I was hired as the Atlantic City General Manager in February 2016. In May 2017, I took over the General Manager duties in Virginia Beach.
Moving from the East Coast to Phoenix is a big transition! What drew you to this opportunity?
R: The opportunity is what motivated me! Going to a larger center and bigger team. I wanted to be out of my comfort zone, to learn all the things I don’t know, and to share my knowledge and experience.
What are your first impressions of the Phoenix Convention Center and your new team?
R: I am walking into an awesome facility with a fantastic Smart City team already in place.
Every new role comes with its challenges. What do you think will be the biggest one for you, and how are you tackling it?
R: The biggest challenge is the network upgrade, which we were able to get installed in just three days!
You’ve gone from managing a small team to a much larger one. What excites you most about this transition?
R: Coming from a two-person center, I wore all the hats and was very hands-on. It’s exciting to have a talented team in place where we can learn from each other and share ideas. I’m looking forward to building relationships with both the Smart City and venue teams.
How did your experiences in Atlantic City and Virginia Beach prepare you for this role?
R: Working in smaller facilities meant I got to do all roles. I hope to share my knowledge with the team as well as learn from them and their experiences.
Do you have any short-term and long-term goals for your time in Phoenix?
R: Short term, I’m looking forward to having the entire network installed, APs have to be installed around events. Long term, I’m excited to continue our great relationship with the City of Phoenix team and provide technology services second to none.
Adjusting to a new team is always a process. How are you settling in with everyone?
R: I kinda dove in with the network upgrade, but I’d like to spend more time with each team member to get to know them better.
Let’s switch over to a more personal side of things. How’s the relocation been for you and your family so far?
R: We are still in the process, but it’s coming along. The whole family is excited for the move to Phoenix.
Phoenix is quite different from Atlantic City and Virginia Beach! What’s been the biggest change for you so far?
R: Going from the beach to the desert will be a change…I guess I still have sand! Overall, I’m looking forward to much better weather year-round.
Have you had the chance to explore Phoenix yet? Any favorite spots or activities so far?
R: Nothing yet, but I’m looking forward to hiking and outdoor activities.
Any hobbies or interests that you think will be affected, positively or negatively, by the move?
R: Positively looking forward to enjoying the outdoor activities and the nicer year-round weather!
Thanks Ryan for a fun interview and best of luck in Phoenix! We’re rooting for you! For more Smart City Spotlights, check out our blog!
